#no working out your salvation with fear and trembling just — it was like a say no to drugs skit

[brontes]

Gonna get in trouble at church because I genuinely don’t think “Christian” media should exist as a genre. I think Christians should write good and even excellent stories about the nature of the human condition and if they truly follow Jesus the evidence of that joy and wisdom and goodness will pervade whatever they make whether they like it or not. Stop worrying about what you want people to learn like it’s a lesson and just say something true and beautiful.

And as an audience, stop being afraid of stories that might not agree with you and seek things that are good and true and beautiful.

[lovesodeepandwideandwell]

Hi Kaylie! Do you have any resources that you would recommend on the Calvinism/Arminianism topic? I saw your tag about helping people in spiritual crisis’ and I’m having a bit of one over this topic at the moment. :)

Hi! My biggest recommendation, which I gave to my friends last night, is do not let this question take over your spiritual life. Try to keep immersed in parts of Scripture that feel unrelated, in books that sit outside this dichotomy, and remember that you can fruitfully love God from either side of this debate, as many Christians have done before you. Just as our salvation doesn't depend on our never sinning, it doesn't depend on our opinions about God all being exactly correct.

Free will versus predestination in particular is a question I don't think Scripture allows us to answer unequivocally. It's pretty clear that we have responsibility for our souls and fate, and equally clear that God decides everything about our state and fate. You have to find a place where you can affirm both those claims, or deny some of Scripture.

As far as resources go, Augustine's Gift of Predestination and Perseverance of the Saints, and Calvin's Ephesians sermons, are good and clear presentations of the more predestinarian side, getting at the heart motivation for the belief as much as the logic. Genuinely though I recommend focusing on stuff where this isn't even in question. Evelyn Underhill's The Spiritual Life, Luther's Freedom of a Christian, Bede's Homilies on the Gospels, Screwtape Letters, Confessions. Just immerse yourself in the whole of Christian truth so you can see how the free will question doesn't, or shouldn't, govern the whole conversation. And if your crisis is more like on the practical side of what you should do about it, just keep doing what Scripture says, which is working out your salvation with fear and trembling, since it's Christ who works in you to will and to work!

[hiswordsarekisses]

“Imagine standing before a tightrope that stretches across Niagara Falls.

You’ve been given a guarantee by God himself that you’ll make it across safely.

The life he intends for you is on the other side, so remaining where you are is not an option. You have to go.

Still, even with his rock-solid promise, you’re shaking. A nervous wreck. Every step of the way, every downward glance, you’re both exhilarated and terrified.

Finally on the other side, you collapse in joy and nervous exhaustion. You made it. Just as he said.

That’s a taste of what scripture means when it says to work out your salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).

It has nothing to do with earning it, and everything to do with being aware of how unfathomable it is — how utterly scary your situation was without its promise.

You don’t question the outcome of your journey; like tight-roping across the falls, you walk it out with acute awareness of the magnitude.

You live your salvation with awe.

Aim to live with that sense of sacredness, that exhilaration of the treachery of the journey, on one hand, and the certainty of the promise on the other.

Without God’s guarantee, fear and trembling are only terrifying.

With it, they are a cause for worship and gratitude every moment of the day.”

~ Chris Tiegreen

The phrase “pass the test” is translated from a word that also means “reprobate” “unapproved” “counterfeit” “disqualified” “rejected”

(“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?” 2ndCorinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬)

So, we are told to examine ourselves “to see that we are in the faith,” and to see that none of those “pass the test” things apply to us!

How can we tell? How do we know if we “pass the test?”

We can definitely know - and will be able to tell, with certainty, if we are consistently reading and studying in the Word of God because He has made these things clear in His Word so that we can have assurance to Know beyond a doubt that we are right with God and headed for heaven. God wants us to have assurance - that’s part of the reason He left us His written Word.

Salvation requires only faith in what Jesus did on the cross - that He died and shed Hos blood as our substitute - in our place - so that we can be forgiven and set free from a life of sin. Yet - Even this we are not required to have on our own, but God will give us this faith if we ask Him. We are required to have it - but not required to produce it. God’s Love always supplies whatever His Love demands.

The following 6 things are just ways that we can know for sure - by symptom - that we have truly passed from death to life - and that we do indeed believe and have this faith that God requires.

These are not ways to “BE saved” - these are ways we can see that we truly do belong to God.

These things will all be happening in our lives as a “result” of this faith.

If we do not find these things in our life, then we can still pray that God will produce faith in us, and with it the “fruit in keeping with repentance.” (Matthew 3:8)

1)

We have assurance of eternal life if we believe "in the name of the Son of God" (I John 5:13; 4:15; 5.1)

2)

We have assurance of eternal life if we love the Father and the Son rather than the world, and if we depend on God's guidance and power to overcome the world's influence - by resting in HIS ability and not our own - as He writes His Word on our hearts, it literally becomes a part of us, and a part of who we are.

3)

We are brand new creations. The old has gone and the new has come. (2ndCorinthians 5:17)

We are sincerely trying to live by his principles and obey his commands.

“And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says 'I know him' but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him" (1 John 2:3-5; 3:24; 5:2; John 8:31, 51; 14:21-24; 15:9-14; Heb. 5:9).

This “keeping of His commandments” is a FRUIT - and not by a legalistic effort.

It’s a natural fruit - or symptom - of being right with God - if there is change, and we are progressively becoming more like Him and less like our old self, and this is happening sincerely and genuinely BECAUSE of being His.

4)

We consistently and persistently try to do what is right by God's standard.

“If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who “practices” righteousness has been born of him" (1stJohn 2:29

…Whoever “makes a practice” of sinning is of the devil"

1st John 3:7-10

…We have assurance of eternal life if we show true love for others. We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him" (1 John 3:14, 19; 2:9-11; 3:23; 4:8, 11-12, 16, 20; 5:1; John 13:34-35).

5)

“Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as Christ is pure.” (1stJohn‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭3‬)

“whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked" (1 John 2:6; John 8:12).

6)

We have assurance of eternal life if we believe, accept and remain in a right relation to the "word of life - We base our lives on His original message.

“As for you, let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you. If it does, you will also remain in the Son and in the Father.” (1stJohn‬ ‭2‬:‭24)

Part 2 - A Note:

It’s still shocking to me in many ways to read all of these words that I never even knew were there the first years that I was saved. I used to rely on preachers and teachers in books, in churches, and on tv in order to learn.

I assumed they knew more than I did, so I never realized the importance of knowing the Word on my own. Many more of them than I ever could have imagined are in error and deception.

As a result I was deceived so many times, and eventually became so confused about Grace and sin and forgiveness and righteousness, and all of it.

I Thank God for putting a deep love for the truth and for His Word in my heart that keeps me digging when things don’t make sense. I want to understand - even if it shakes up everything I think I know.

One thing I have come to know by understanding and revelation of the truth of His Word - is that I am saved. And it’s all His doing, and none of mine.

And when this body I am in dies, I will merely change my mode of transportation into spiritual mode, and I can say with complete God-given faith, with Job, “As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness; when I awake, I will be satisfied in Your presence.” (Psalms‬ ‭17‬:‭15‬)

Part 3 - A Reminder when the devil tries telling you that you do not belong to God…

First of all, we should absolutely use that as an opportunity to examine ourselves.

2nd of all, read the 6th chapter of The Gospel of John. You will find in there plenty ammunition to fight back with.

You will find there the truth that we cannot even want to be God’s unless He draws us to Himself. So if we want you to be saved it’s only because He deposited that desire into our heart. It says in there, that no one can come to Jesus unless God draws them, it that no one can snatch you out of His hand either. Check it out. ⚔️📖⚔️ The truth will set you free!! Bury His Word down in your heart, it’s your sword because it is the sure weapon against the enemy!!!

[hopeforkitten]

The sketch is like a Dark Urge worried about meeting Baal (how can he know that he will be resurrected by the Withers) and asks for insurance from Raphael.

Tav, in secret from her companions, made her way to Sharess' Caress, she is not used to acting like this. like a ghost, she reached the doors to the devil's lair, quickly slipped through the doors and quietly closed them. immediately, a familiar voice reached her

- Oh, what I see, my beloved client has decided to make the right decision, hasn't he?

Tav was hesitating at the door, holding her hands together and somehow guiltily looking at the devil, lowering her head.

- What an interesting confusion, I'm all ears.

he almost interrupted her and it took Tav a few seconds longer to gather her thoughts again.

- Raphael...

- Yes, I'm listening

Tav finally found the strength to walk a few steps deeper into the room. She inhaled and looked up, still pinched in her shoulders.

- Even during our first meeting, you called me an "incomparable sinner" and talked about "bloody pleasure". Now I understand more about it, but then you knew about my past from the very beginning?

- Oh, of course. You have already reunited with your old friends. That quarrelsome boy Gortash probably told you everything.

- Yes, I found answers about the past, but here's my future... - Tav pulled herself together and grimaced, reaching the topic that worried her so much.

- I want a better future for you, where you will be the savior of Baldrus Gate, even though you resist him.- the devil was smiling and gesticulating, but he was beginning to get the alarm Tav

For a second, their eyes crossed again. Tav, his cheeky mouse is almost crying in front of him, and is desperately looking for salvation in his eyes. He is upset by this picture.

- Well, what is it? I don't like it when my little mouse are scared into a frenzy, how will they talk to me?

Raphael's words did not affect Tav, she did not relax a bit.

- Dear, - Raphael came closer and squeezed Tav's elbow, bringing her back to reality.

She looked up at him ready to let out all her worries

- This is my father. Everyone wants me to meet him as soon as possible, but... I'm going to die, I know that. - speaking about death, she became quieter, but continued louder, almost singing out the words.- I love this world, if I accept his will, he will perish, if I reject it, I will perish. I would not be afraid of the prospect of fighting an ancient god and dying in this battle, but.... to perish at the snap of his fingers, at his command alone...

Tav took Raphael's hand in hers. He felt her tremble and sweat.

- My life is over - She laughed nervously, - it will be the end, Raphael, I will not become a hero of Baldrus Gate - She squeezed his hand and smiled like a fool in the square.

The devil was surprised by such a confession and such behavior.

- If you could help me,- Tav continued hesitantly. - be my insurance that will get me out of the next world? 

The lights of hope shone in her eyes

- Oh, mouse, just. You once defeated an ancient god, why such fears?

- You understand perfectly well that everything is somewhat different here, do not inspire me with hope

-Hope is the best of feelings for my clients.

Raphael was flirtatious as always, he wasn't going to get into Tav's panic.

- You know what human life is tied to and what currency devils work with, don't you?

- My soul, I know. Take her and bring me back from the other world when Baal kills me.

- What determination. - Raphael took the usual distance of a couple of steps. and pulled his hands to his chest.

- And you... will you just give yourself to me? You do understand, little mouse, that after the resurrection your soul will still belong to me? These are the rules and not to say that they are me... upset. - Raphael returned his gaze to Tav and put a threatening emphasis on the last words.

- I understand, but I'm facing the only way out, Raphael.

- What a smart and prudent mouse, even I would say sacrificial, do you want to follow in the footsteps of one of your now a horned friend?

- Will saved the city, I'm trying to save myself

- Oh, how selfish we are

- You're Raphael...  please can you help me?

- I, of course, - he raised his hand as for his favorite finger snap, but stopped, - But what will I get from this? Do you remember the subject of the contract I proposed earlier, yes, smart mouse?

- The Crown of Karsus...

- Oh, yes, your memory does not fail. Your charming soul, with the mark of Baal, is good, but it's not enough. Don't make such a face, you understood everything correctly, you will give the crown to me

. He snapped his fingers and a document appeared in a cloud of sparks.

- And I have just the right contract. Would you like to read the fine print? - a gloating gesture from him

- The contract is not subject to discussion?

- No

- Then it will not improve my situation in any way

Tav grabbed a pen and quickly signed.

- It's so simple - Raphael spoke in disappointment and the contract disappeared.

Tav looked relieved, relaxed and somehow distantly upset, limp.

Raphael began to smile wider, he grabbed her chin and began to peer into her face. Tav couldn't object.

- Is it really my mouse that held herself so high in her team that she so bloodthirstedly put out the "Last Light". Even though you broke a few of my plans there, but you....you will replace them in full.

Tav withered before his eyes, her head became harder to hold in his hand.

- All right, get yourself in order, hero. You've done even more than you should, my good one, let your adored team support you

He released her chin and Tav moved out the door of the devil's den. The noise of the city should have calmed her thoughts, but she would not come to her senses soon...

Tav jumped up from the red sheets and immediately realized that this was a mistake. Pain shot through her body, she hunched over and clutched her head, her own touch felt like electric shocks. Nevertheless, she managed to stay half-sitting.

- Shhh, my dear, your chase is over.

Raphael's velvety voice reached her ears.

Tav was in the house of hope, in the boudoir. On his master's big bed. Raphael was sitting at a distance on a chair, obviously waiting for her to wake up for some time.

- What about my friends? - the first thing that came to mind was Tav

- Your charming team of adventurers did not mourn you for long. They were upset to learn about our agreement, but this is not something they have a say in. Even if you are just as charming dead, they need a more talkative leader.

For Tav, this answer was soothing music. she looked down at herself and realized that most of her body was covered in dirty bandages and infernal signatures. Tav began to examine her hands.

- And this is...?

- It's just paint, as soon as you get on your feet you can wash it off. Well, or ...

As if out of nowhere, a young copy of Raphael appeared on the bed in a red robe and obviously intricate leather straps peeking out from under it.

- Let Haarlep take care of you. His hands are the best thing that has ever happened to you, especially now he is in the best of his guises.

- Who is this?

- You owe him a lot, he is one of those who perfectly remembers the features of the human body and, most importantly, is able to recreate them.

Probably even this is not something that should be surprised by Tav, who recently rose from the dead.

- Thank you, it's not worth it, - still, this sudden image was a little alarming to Tav. Haarlep showed feigned disappointment and playfully lay down on the bed.

- Mouse, you should still let him at least touch you, it will facilitate your recovery.

- Maybe later, - Tav looked at Haarlep incredulously, and returned to examining the symbols on her body. - And am I now alternatively alive or what?

- Livelier than all the living. You will be completely clean when you recover, I even decided to remove your blatant brand absolute on the charming palm. I don't want to know how it appeared, I hope it wasn't by your will and I don't expect any stupid surprises on your part. - In the last words, Raphael was strict

- Think that it is.

Tav desperately wanted to doubt at least something of such a contented host of the house

However, wasn't it to him that she owed her life?

- Raphael... thank you. I could not imagine a better and more responsive service.

- You're starting to say the right words, you're clearly coming to your senses.

- And... my head...- Tav ruffled her hair with her fingers, running over the scalp - I don't hear the Emperor here and Baal's voice is no more... It's unbelievable I'm the mistress of my head again

Tav does not hold back the sounds at the next delayed outbreak of pain and the neighbor on the bed grabs her wrist. The pain goes away and she is enveloped by something softer than the silk sheets on which she is sitting

- Little battered mice shouldn't be stubborn,- Haarlep cooed, crawling closer to her and hugging her hand with two of his

- T-thank you

- How charming.- Raphael definitely enjoyed this sight, - Soon you will say goodbye to the voice of the Emperor forever. Then I will give you another luxurious reception at the House of Hope and you will finally be able to thank me properly.

Now without pain, only Haarlep's wagging tail distracted Tav from Raphael's dreamy speech.

[iesnoth]

Any advice for a Christian who "technically" isnt a Christian? A few months ago, I was on the rocks with my faith. Everything I stand for like LGBTQ acceptance (I'm undecided on my sexuality) and being pro-choice and what not goes against the Bible. At one point, I felt lost- like I didn't believe anymore because that's not what a Christian should believe in. But then- I felt this warm blanket cover my shoulders and it reassured me I still believed in God, even if I believed in those other things too. It makes me conflicted because obviously- if I don't follow the Bible's teachings, I'm going against God's word. But whenever I talk to him and pray, I never feel shunned for thinking such things. If anything, I feel reassured.

I'm saying all this because my By-the-Bible Christian friend says I'm not truly a Christian for these reasons (as does just about every single other "real" Christian I've seen on those videos like "Conservative Christians vs. Liberal Christians". So I don't know what to do. I still believe in god. I still pray, and love him- and I feel that deep down he loves me and all his other children no matter what. What do I do? Have I guaranteed my place in hell?

Thank you for reaching out with your very thought-provoking message.

First of all, I'm not going to tell you whether or not you are a Christian: that is between you and God. I'm also not going to tell you "The Rules," because it seems you know them. But I am going to take a few statements from what you've written and, Lord willing, give you some encouragement.

You mention "going against God's word", and though I agree in the sense that we all sin and we all doubt, our salvation isn't contingent on what we do. There's a whole theological discussion to be had about how "works" fit into "faith," but the crux of salvation is:

"If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in Your heart God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

That's all it takes for salvation. That's it. There's another verse that's been a great encouragement to me recently:

"--work out your own salvation with fear and trembling [ie: respect for an absent authority], for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." Philippians 2:12b-13 (ESV)

In sum, God has made all of us (Christian and non-Christian) because He loves us. Christianity is reciprocating that love and entering His confidence. He has a path for us which we can't change, but we can share in His joy by sharing in His plan. Each plan is designed to suit each person, and through the Spirit we discover it. But if you are in the Spirit you will discover it. (I'm sorry to the non-Christians out there for the religious lingo, but it's the shortest way for me to say this atm.)

You say you feel reassured when you pray. I don't know your situation well, but the Lord still loves you, and will always love you all your days. And He does want a relationship with you. (However, if you're receiving affirmations about beliefs you know are contrary to the Bible, I implore you to really dissect that warm feeling and make sure you know where it's coming from.)

Finally, you have not guaranteed your place in hell. No one alive can do that, because Jesus can wash away ALL sin if we ask Him to. And God gives us that opportunity, every day until we die, no matter what we've done. As long as we believe in Him and love Him, He forgives. Because He has loved us from the beginning of time.

My advice to you, as much as it is, is to make sure you truly KNOW Jesus. This is the "working out your salvation," what all Christians should be doing all their lives. Read the Gospels and KNOW Him, read the Old Testament and the prophecies about the Messiah. Ask hard questions and research them out without bias. The problem I find in both conservative and liberal Christians is the tendency to make "their Jesus." 'Judgmental' and/or 'all-tolerant' are two terms which should never be used to describe Him. Jesus of history fits into no box: He loved those society hated, He said controversial things to make people upset (Jesus could be quite the edgelord), He was endlessly compassionate, but also tired and angry. He was all this while blameless, all human while God. He did not bend to society then or now, but because of (and in spite of) that, loved everyone. You will not agree with some of what God says, because our sin nature keeps us from being in line with him. But Jesus said the most important command is just this:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength."

If someone is lazy, a coffee addict, a murderer, whatever, it doesn't matter to God as long as they love Him enough to surrender to Him. But if the coffee addict refuses to give up coffee if He asks, do they love Him with their whole heart? If a lazy Christian refuses to get up when God asks, do they love Him with all their strength? God takes into account our weaknesses. He won't ask the impossible of us unless He equips us for it. But just as He sacrificed for us, He tells us we will have to sacrifice for Him, if for no other reason than this world is in opposition to Him.

Again, He knows our weaknesses. He knows our thoughts, our questions. And He knows how to answer us, if we'll reach out.

"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9

I could go on and on about this, because there is so much nuance here. Instead, I'll leave you with a few resources.

I know Christians can get into echo chambers, where they come to believe God only works in a set way. Something which helps me avoid this is listening to other peoples' testimonies. Delafé Testimonies on Youtube is great for learning the myriad of ways God works. I've been surprised by how gentle He is in these stories.

This might seem hokey, but The Chosen series has helped me steer my understanding of Jesus in a more Biblically accurate direction, and it's genuinely one of the best shows I've seen. You can watch all 3 seasons on the Chosen app.

Mere Christianity by CS Lewis, or anything by Lewis. I've heard critiques about the man, but in consuming his theological work, I've found him to be progressive when it comes to sex and gender identity, especially for his time.

I hope this was helpful. I understand what you're going through, and am working out my salvation right along side you, friend. It's normal to have questions about theology and your own salvation. Let me know if you have any more questions and I'll be happy to help: I'm not an "expert" by any means, but I like talking about Jesus. I'll be praying for you, and praying for empathy and love in your friend group.

Peace be with you.

[thiscallsforsomethought]

Sometimes the way out of the storm is repentance

“Throw me into the sea,” Jonah said, “and it will become calm again. I know that this terrible storm is all my fault.”” ‭‭Jonah‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

The storm came as a result of Jonah running away from the instruction of the Lord.  Because the Word of the Lord do not return to Him void. When He says a Word—it will and must happen. Willfully going against it has grave consequences. Repentance will bring you back to follow the Word of God that you left hanging. By design, God’s Word canno go back ot Him unfulfilled.  If the person who goes against it do not repent, it will cost them their lives or ireppairable damage to their destiny. Then God will find someone who will make it happen.

Ito din yung nangyari sa Israel—He said na dadalhin Niya ang bayan sa promise land. Dahil as tuloy tuloy na pagreresist ng bayan due to unbelief and constant rebellion, hindi sa kanila nangyari. Pero nangyari pa rin yung promise sa next generation.

When God releases a Word it will not return to Him void.

Kaya din—sa Israel, nung hiningi nila yung Word ng Lord tapos turns out hindi naman pala nila susundin—ang sabi ng Lord sa kanila—mas my pananagutan na kayo ngayon kasi hiningi Niyo yung Word ko. Kasi hindi na pwede yun hindi sundin, kailangan na yun ngayon mapangyari kasi narelease na ng Lord.

Dahi sa gantong nature of His Word, it is the grace of God na hindi magsalita or iconceal His perfect will at times. Dahil kapag linabas na Niya tapos hindi ready ifollow through, then that will bring grave consequences. May way ang Lord at timing din talaga kasi patient at mapagmahal Siya. He cannot go against Himself at the same time, mahal ka Niya. —kaso yung Israel—hinanap nila kaya sinabi ng Lord, tapos hindi nila gagawin. Mabigat yun.

Sa pagsend ng Lord ng storm kayJonah, it is His grace na babalik sa instruction Niya si Jonah. Ginigising Niya si Jonah na bumalik sa instruction Niya. He wont just give His instruction to someone else and let Jonah live his way. That is not how it works—kung sa iyo binigay and here—kay Jonah binigay, then it is for him to fulfill. Because God’s call is irrevocable si Jonah ang kailangan magpangyari.  

That means that His call as much as it is a privilege also has its cost.  It is not to be taken lightly and should be handled with the utmost care.  God chooses just because then He equips whoever He has called for specific purposes.  It is pointless to ask God ‘why me’ questions just like Moses did.  Even with Moses when He was almost begging God to use someone else, God did not allow such request.  Because Moses’ call was already released right when he was born and it cannot be revoked.  

It is not something you should evaluate as these questions points you to focus on yourself than the God who chose you. God just chose you, period. Just God chose you and He willl equip you for the calling. Everything you are and have and the power God gives, the ability, the wisdom—all of it comes from the Lord. In the eyes of God every single one is as precious as the other, but some people are going to be called to do certain tasks and some others, other tasks.  

At the end of every single day, work out your salvation with fear and trembling because it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.

[jovialenfp]

It’s important to keep in mind that just as Jesus spoke to the arrogant and self-righteous differently than the broken, contrite, and desperate, the Bible speaks to people according to who they are and what they are like.

To the people whose tendency is to act independently and take matters into their own hands, Scripture says, “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.” (Psalm 37:7). It says, “Don’t say, ‘I will get even for this wrong.’ Wait for the LORD to handle the matter” (Proverbs 20:22).

To the people who tend to be passive, procrastinating, or presuming on grace, the Bible prods with, “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12 NIV) and “...make every effort to add to your faith goodness... make every effort to confirm your calling and election” (2 Peter 1:5, 10).

It’s also important to keep in mind that the Bible also equips us to respond in different ways to ever-changing circumstances and needs. “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). An action required at one time may not be required another time.

Knowing which biblical emphasis to follow requires spiritual discernment, along with understanding the kind of person you are and the situation you are in.

In some places Scripture doesn’t address a particular type of person or specific situation. It brings both aspects together and spells out the balance for us. “Trust in the LORD and do good” (Psalm 37:3, italics added) “What is important is faith expressing itself in love” (Galatians 5:6, italics added).

The reality is that it is not an either/or issue of trusting God to act or us acting alone. It is a both/and issue of trusting fully and acting wisely according to God’s revealed will in Scripture.

In all situations we should be praying and trusting the Lord. We find the biblical balance in life when we trust God to provide our life’s necessities and when we also work while wholly trusting God to use our effort to provide the things we need. We need to do what we can to bring about the answer to our prayer by acting in harmony with the general principles God has given in His Word. Trusting God does not contradict working to bring about what we pray for but rather faith works together with our efforts.

What about when we don’t know what general principles God has given? In those times we should ask, “What is the loving thing to do?” then do that.

And in those situations where we think there is absolutely no action to take, we can always express our dependence on the Lord to act by praying. It’s always wise and always our responsibility. For the Christian there is never nothing to do—there is always prayer.

God is always working to carry out His plans and I can trust Him fully while I act to carry out His will as revealed in Scripture. Paul combined these two aspects when he wrote, “That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me” (Colossians 1:29).

Keeping balanced on when to wait on God and when to act is summed up by the Arab sage who quipped, “Trust in the Lord, but tie up your camel.”

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[lindajenni]

jan 13 (part 2)

OSAS or being saved

God is, "not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." 2 pet 3:9  but just as He will not force anyone to believe, He will not force anyone to stay where they choose not to.  we are not predestined to be saved or not.  one can choose to leave the faith and many have.  "by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which i preached to you — unless you believed in vain." 1 cor 15:2 i would not dare take grace for granted and live licentiously, feeling confident that i was always saved.  it's just too easy to say one was never saved if they leave the faith when they may have come as sincerely as you or i did in the beginning. how then could anyone ever be really sure of salvation when sin continues in our lives?  faith, my friend.  God's word is full of scriptures proclaiming, "if you will, then I will."  cling to Jesus, keep pushing down on sin and pulling up by grace, and God's got us covered; the blood is sufficient.  and as long as He still chastens and convicts me, i know i am still His child.  "not that i have already attained, or am already perfected; but i press on, that i may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me." phil 3:12  the upward call of Christ is ever my goal. "for which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it." luke 14:28  repentance and turning is only the start of the race.  hold the confession, "i have fought the good fight, i have finished the race, i have kept the faith.  finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing." 2 tim 4:7-8  be sure we finish the race.  our Lord described all in luke with the parable about the sower.  "but the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away." luke 8:13  these are believers falling away.  take root and let fruit be evident, in it's season, in your life.  let us be cautious but confident of the gift given. these are my beliefs as i search the scriptures.  certainly i could be wrong in my beliefs, but at least i have taken time and effort to search out scriptures i can use to justify what i believe.  how much time have you taken to confirm your beliefs, or are you just satisfied in relying on what someone else has told you?  if you take your eternal salvation that lightly, perhaps you should be checking whether you are one who has believed in vain. i pray that it not be a matter of dissension among the brethren.  let each be confident in their own mind.  "but if someone believes it is wrong, then for that person it is wrong." rom 14:4 nlt  search for yourselves, and "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." phil 2:12  everything is not a salvation issue, but don't be wrong in your rightness or your carelessness.  let the Holy Spirit be your guide. "and the Spirit and the bride say, “come!”  and let him who hears say, “come!”  and let him who thirsts come.  whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely." rev 22:17 for those of you who would like to listen to david pawson's teaching on this, you may do so here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hG-zaJXv5D0&list=WL&index=75

[truthandlove]

Right Relationship

Those in real covenant relationship with the Most High God, will seek righteousness. Not a religious thing; they will have the real LOVE OF GOD active and alive in them, through them. Their NATURAL way of being is to seek to BLESS AND CONTRIBUTE to everyone they meet.

This is in contrast to selfishness, to a taking mindset. They seek to HEAR what Holy Spirit is saying about the person they meet and respond in obedience. How does God's love want to impact their needs. Maybe not what THEY think is their most relevant or pressing need, but what GOD SAYS is their deepest and truest need.

When someone is self-seeking, we can observe (behaviors, fruit, attitudes) that they are NOT flowing in Covenant Relationship with the PERSON of God. They only think about what benefits themselves. They are obsessed and driven by immediate gratification. How to use things and people around them to advance their goes. Yes we all have needs, have goals.

BUT THE BELIEVE IS NOT DOMINATED by that. We also have God's love MOVING in and through us to pay MUCH ATTENTION TO (not just a token glance at), the needs of others around us.

To CARE about others, is not a burden or unnatural thing. It is GOD WHO IS CARING, but caring about them through us. We ask to see how we can be a vessel or, a manifestation of, a realization of HIS love.

Phillipians 2:2-12 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose.

3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: 6Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross. 9Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

12Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. 13For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.

[god-whispers]

apr 5

the grays are disappearing

"how long will you falter between two opinions?  if the Lord is God, follow Him; but if baal, follow him." 1 kings 18:21

there are no "gray" areas anymore.  those who are following the ways of satan are boldly making it known while many believers are just going along to get along.  even here in america, i look around and can't help but believe the majority doesn't agree with all these practices.  i ask myself, "how could decent people descend into darkness so fast?"

"truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent." acts 17:30  mankind is no longer in it's infancy, fearful of every omen and thunderous unknown.  they have now searched the stars and built upon their accumulated knowledge as the word says, "little by little." exo 23:30  but has all their accumulated knowledge brought wisdom with it?  when the apostle paul was making defense for the gospel they said, "paul, you are beside yourself!  much learning is driving you mad!" acts 26:24  in fact, he was speaking truth.  it was their learning, accompanied by arrogance and pride, that had driven them mad.

i think true madness lies in the heart of someone who can look around at the universe and and claim there is no God; it all just happened.  scientists say just a tiny bit nearer to the sun, we would all burn to death; a tiny bit distant, we would surely freeze.  sure, all things happened perfectly for good with no design involved.  the one believing that have flat refused to know and acknowledge the truth.  they have, "their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart." eph 4:18

the word tells us, "because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.  for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened." rom 1:19-21

few today would tremble in fear at what an eclipse might portend?  few today would make something with their hands, call it god and proceed to worship and expect it to hear and protect them.  we look back at these people now and think they were simple minded; backwards in all their ways.  have we progressed much further when the world says gender is flexible from what God assigned?  yes, the grays are disappearing and we must choose sides, God or satan.

no longer can one "ride the fence."  there is no switzerland in this battle; no neutral territory.  if you don't loathe the sin which does so easily beset you, if you keep doing it again and again without shame or heartfelt remorse, perhaps you should check your repentance.  maybe it was just regret at getting discovered that made you profess belief?  we have to turn from our wicked ways if we want His healing, in our lives and in our land.  too many just want the "hurt" off.  the gospel; the good news is: if your heart truly detests these things; if you really desire the light over the darkness, God will do "all our works in us." isa 26:12

we may be "confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." phil 1:6  if you change your mind, then God will change your heart.  it really is just a decision; a decision to seek after good instead of evil.  the blood is our escape from the past.  (so much garbage left behind in mine.)

my heart is fearful for those just playing around with their salvation.  it's not those who stumble and want to be better and try to be better, it's those who willfully continue on in their ways, still "expecting" grace.  perhaps like a catholic receiving absolution from a priest and believe all is ok, as they rush out the door to their waiting sin.  friends, it is not confession of the mouth that will save.  it is confession of the heart.  it is crying out, "God, be merciful to me a sinner!" luke 18:13

are you practicing fornication or adultery?  do you gladly steal, justifying it with some reasoning in your mind?  the word says even liars will find themselves in the lake of fire.  our God is a holy God; holy beyond all we could imagine.  it will only be through the righteous blood of Jesus we shall be able to stand in the day of judgement; and yes, judgement is coming.  His wrath is coming upon all who practice ungodliness and anyone standing in the way will be consumed.

the grays are disappearing and a stand must be taken.  actually, there never was any gray with God.  it was and is always light.  sin must be discarded and salvation sought.  witness must be made to the purity and truth of His grace.  "whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." mark 8:38

"the watchman said, 'the morning comes, and also the night.  if you will inquire, inquire;  return! come back!'" isa 21:12  don't be found with unequal scales and found wanting.  His blood is the only thing that can balance out the scales and tip them into your favor.  don't leave this life without it.

[miajolensdevotion]

May 15, 2020

Verse: Philippians 2:12-18 Write/ Copy Gods words :

Shining as Lights in the World 12  Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed-not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence-continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13  for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. 14  Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15  so that you may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation."[1] Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16  as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17  But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18  So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

What is your Favorite verse(s):

14  Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15  so that you may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation."[1] Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky

Explain in your own words what you just read: My dear friend, as you have obey always-not in my presence, but much more if I am not around-comtinue to work on your salvation with afraid & quiver, it is only God can work in you to will & act in order to fulfill his good reason. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so you will become sinless & holy, children of God without any failure in twist out shape & crazy generation. You will shine in all of them like a star in the sky as you hold steadfast to the word of life & I will be able to give glory on the day of Christ that I did not run in worthless. But I am being pour out like a drink offer in the sacrifice & service from your faith, I am happy & please with all of you. You too should be happy & please with me

What is God saying to you/me : God is telling me that I should not be arguing in sharing the gospel

Commitment / what will i do : I will do anything without compaining to become holy child of God

Reference:

https://www.christianity.com/bible/bible.php?q=Philippians+2%3A12-18&ver=niv

[shadowsshowdown]

Deus Ex: Human Revolution Shadow’s Showdown: Chapter 8

The great plan.

Sarif Industries - Headquarters.

The whole week passed way too fast. After the illness actually only a memory remained. Yet the bandage on Laura’s hand still reminded her about the photo e-mailed by an unknown person. For the first time, she was joyful to see the large foyer and the round, red desk of the reception area at Sarif Industries. The bright lights of informative audio and visual displays didn’t bother her at all. Being here again was like salvation, like being reborn. Even the sight of Adam settling some dispute didn't spoil her mood. Laura felt safe somewhat knowing that he’s on duty. Following the new plan, she nodded to Jensen in greeting as he looked at her. The auburn-haired girl decided that today she would stand out of the crowd. Apparently, she succeeded because the head of security could not look away from her for a long time. She was wearing a long-sleeved x-line knee-length dress in a light shade of blue with a pattern of navy blue dots. The whole was completed with not very thick navy blue tights and Mary Jane type shoes.

"What a sacrifice. Let's hope it pays off for me." she thought, taking off her gray coat and slowly walking up the stairs.

She didn't even have time to reach the second floor when the head of security caught up with her. The plan is working all too well since he is already following her. However, she tried hiding her pride. She straightened her handbag hanging on her right shoulder and smiled kindly. Oh yes, with a smile, always with a smile…

"Hello, Miss Werner. How are you feeling?" Adam asked while taking off his long, black coat. "Much obliged, for your concern. I feel better now." she replied, still smiling.

Jensen glanced at her bandaged hand but didn't mention a word about it. Laura, in turn, noticed that he had cleaned his coat and was wearing that awful brown turtleneck sweater again.

"That's good because I'm afraid we'll have to repeat the personal search." "Fuck, fuck! Rot in hell you sneaky bastard!" she thought, but still didn't give him even a hint that she was nervous. "But of course, no problem."

At most, Frank will slay her, no big deal. A few minutes later they were already in Adam's office. Knowing the procedures, she did not wait for him to ask for the handbag but handed it over to him willingly. The head of security was examining the Crunchy Pirate's cereal box again and to her misfortune this time he confiscated it. „And shit just hit the fan.” Laura thought but remained calm, unshaken by even a hint of fear. He saw no trembling of her hands, no drops of sweat on her temples, no nervous biting of her lip. Jensen saw nothing because the girl standing before him was now like an oak, not aspen. Though hurricanes raged deep inside her, outside there was a mask. She didn't even flinch when he touched her, as his fingers wandered unhurriedly along her sides, as his hands tightened on her shoulders, forearms, and hands. She didn't sigh, didn't say a single unpleasant word.

"That would be all, you're free to go." he announced in a cool, formal tone.

Miss Werner gathered her things, said goodbye, and left. She was pretty sure she could feel his gaze on her back until she closed the door behind her. Laura ran straight to the restroom. Standing alone in front of a mirror she could hear her heart pounding wildly in her chest and feel how muffled emotions were wielding her like a puppet. She splashed ice-cold water on her face, letting drops drip from her eyelashes, nose, and chin. She was supposed to be indifferent, but meanwhile, she was burning with fire. Instead of thinking about how to retrieve a box of cereal out of his office, she thought about Adam himself. That gentle touch of his, the one she could not resist. The memory of his hot breath near her neck made Laura shiver. It was so hard to just stand there and pretend indifference, so damn hard…

She wiped the wet face in a handkerchief, fixed hair up in a ponytail, and carried things to her office. Laura stayed there for a moment to gather her thoughts. Then she rushed to Pritchard’s office, wrapping with her arms a pile of documents he had given to her. She was already prepared for his speech criticizing her work, but Frank only managed to open his mouth. She had checked every command, number, and symbol so, whether he wanted it or not, he had to keep the lecture for another occasion.

As she left Frank’s office, Adam and Faridah flashed before her eyes. Laura overheard something about Sarif had given Jensen an assignment quite far from Detroit so he required a pilot for three days. This valuable information instantly made her feel better. As soon as the auburn-haired girl returned to her office, she began to plot an elaborate plan about switching cereal boxes in Adam's office.

First, the cameras. Hacking can be risky, so something more discreet is needed here. Shreds of conversations between two female employees reached her from the corridor. They mentioned something about interchanging shifts. That's when Laura came up with the idea of swapping the records from the cameras monitoring the entrance to the head of security's office for a brief moment. She would have approximately 5 minutes to get in, complete the task, and get out. The last part of the plan is covering the tracks. Every single file has to be deleted as accurately as possible. Using gloves is mandatory. You never can tell how thorough Jensen may be if he finds out. The best time for operation ‘Crunchy Pirate’ is late evening. The company is almost empty, and security guards are shifting.

She was looking forward to the next day. On her way home Laura stopped by the store to buy necessary items. She hadn't felt such anxiety since the team was disbanded.

Laura's apartment.

Tired, she fell on the bed, but Stalker decided that he would not leave her alone. He jumped on her back, while she was lying pronely and curled up in a ball. She will be his sleeping place for tonight. Laura didn't have the strength to protest. The night passed calmly, surprisingly, without any nightmares. She got up earlier so as not to expose herself to Pritchard's wrath. She calculated that she could be late at most two times in a week, and on the third one she’ll get ridiculously trivial things to accomplish. However, that was not what drove her and forced to act. The zero hour would soon strike. She felt the old, already forgotten excitement as if she was about to experience an unforgettable orgasm. She loved balancing on the edge, playing with fire, risking everything. And what could be better than breaking into the head of the security’s office?

A quarter of an hour later she left the apartment wearing a gray sweater, dark brown pants, and black sneakers. On the run, she put on a warm jacket, holding a sandwich in her teeth and a backpack in her hand. She never ate her favorite cereal before the action, that was her rule. Laura thought about taking the subway today, but she had less money than she thought. She walked off the main street, taking a shortcut through backyards and side alleys that smelled of beer and decaying garbage. A few cats observed her from afar with a curiosity mixed with uncertainty. Over her head drying laundry was waving, hung on a rope stretched between two residential buildings. A group of four boys was sitting on one of the ladders leading to the emergency exit. They were exchanging Pokemon cards. She did not like to judge by appearance, but they rather belonged to the poorer part of Detroit's population.

Sarif Industries Headquarters.

Without Jensen, the company was somehow empty, or was it just her own feeling? It was a daily routine to visit Frank before going to her place, but today his fortress was empty. This was suspicious, to say the least because he hardly ever left the office. She checked the phone too, but he didn't leave a message. So she shrugged her shoulders and left. Hacker girl wanted to send some new data to her superiors, but she had run out of Nukeviruses and Stop! Worms. The last batch was stuck in the head of the security’s office. There was plenty of time left before evening so she decided to rethink her plan. Somewhere in the middle of the third checking, the phone rang.

"Laura, are you already at the company?" Frank sounded nervous, but not as nervous as usual, more like he was waiting for the important meeting with incomplete data. "Yeah for about 30 minutes. I was at your place but ... " "Be quiet and listen carefully, cause I’ll say it only once." he interrupted her firmly. "I have an appointment with Sarif in a few minutes, and I'll end up in a deep shit if you don't help me." "Fine, say what you require."

Somehow she found it hard to believe that Pritchard might be in trouble. He was like a cat, always able to dodge and fall on his feet. Could this time be different?

"I need you to go to Jensen's office and bring me some important papers. That flatfoot didn't deliver them to me before leaving" he said in one breath. "Code for the door: 8426 HURRY UP!"

Wait a minute, did she hear correctly? Are her dreams just coming true, or has she won the lottery ticket?

She got up from the chair on the run grabbing her backpack. Laura was bursting with joy and no matter what might have happened nothing would spoil this moment. She was afraid that someone from security would stop her, but they must have been warned because neither of them even looked at her while entering the code. The tinted windows covered her presence so she felt a bit more at ease. Yet still, the hacker girl wasn't 100% sure if Adam would not suddenly jump out of the wardrobe. As she prepared to swap the boxes, she felt like Indiana Jones in ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’. She took one carefully and put the other on its place, making sure it stands exactly at the same spot. Laura had no problem with finding the file because it was lying on the desk as if ready to be taken. It also had a big sticker with the caption ‘For Pritchard’ written in capital letters. Before leaving, she placed a little surprise on the seat of the office chair and turned its backrest towards the door. Finally, she re-entered the code and waited until the red light came on.

She rushed down the corridor straight to the elevator and a moment later she was already on the 29th floor in the Athene Margoulis office. She didn't have enough time to look around, because Frank instantly assaulted her.

"Girl, what took you so long?! Do you at least have what I requested for?!"

Laura sighed. The urge of telling him to stuff himself grew stronger. But instead of doing so, she handed him the documents. Pritchard immediately softened when he looked over the notes.

"Well done, now get back to your work. Log on to the server, I left new guidelines there."

She observed him disappear behind the glass door of Sarif's office. Athene's urgent grunting made her realize that she wasn't welcome here at all. The auburn-haired girl called the elevator and returned to where she belonged. At least she had accomplished her mission quite legally.

When she got home, she tossed keys on the cupboard. Their loud clanking scared the cat away. She only took off her shoes, without changing into casual clothes. Laura had more significant things to complete now. She sat down in the armchair left by the window and turned on her laptop. Pale light illuminated her grave, focused face, and all she could hear in the silence was the clicking of keyboard keys. It was the middle of the night when she gave up. Unluckily, even in the darkest nooks and crannies of the darknet, she hasn't even gained any clue who the mysterious Red_Dragon is. Hacker girl wasn’t pleased that her searching went for nothing.

All  chapters can be found: [AO3], [dA], [Wattpad] and [Tumblr]

[khm-gh]

DAY EIGHT: BREAKING THE BELIAL BARRIER.

 Deuteronomy 13:13 “Certain men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known”

 Scriptures:

1 Kings 21:1-10, Deuteronomy 13:13, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Acts 6:11, Jeremiah 19:22, Zechariah 4:9, Isaiah 54:17, 8:9-12, Exodus 20:16

 ‘Certain men’ as stated in today’s scripture refers to either a male or female (men in generic essence). ‘Children from Belial are gone out from among you’ means that they were part of you. Belials can birth forth Belials because like begets like.  The scripture says they have drawn out the inhabitants of the city. The inhabitants of the city were not ready to go but were enticed, they set bait for them and drew them into serving other gods. Beware of the drawings of Belials; know that others are around you just to draw you into their evil deeds so that you will displease your God.

 In 1 Kings 21, Naboth had a vineyard which he inherited from his fathers, king Ahab wanted to take the vineyard from him which he refused. This eventually led to his death. Naboth means a carrier of a word, one who carries prophecies, a fruit or sprout. It also means somebody who carries posterity with him. When Naboth refused to let go off his vineyard, Jezebel, the queen set two men, sons of Belial before him to bear false witness against him. We are in dwindling times and a lot of things are going on in the world; the enemy is roaring like a lion seeking whom he may devour but in spite of all these the Lord is saying that you are a carrier of prophecy and to manifest it, you must live your full life span.

 Belials figuratively stand for Satan and all his evil deeds. When you go against the Ten Commandments or you do anything against God you are being a Belial. Belial means without profit, when they come into your business you are not able to make profit. If they are in church, they cause confusion, they are lawless per their disposition and rebellious in everything. These were the kind of people Jezebel sent against Naboth. Belials are all around us and we must pray them out of our lives. The Bible admonishes us not to be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. The good news is that our sufficiency is of the Lord and not of ourselves and the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. It is not by our might or by our power but the Spirit of God. Paul said, ‘I am what I am because of the grace of God’. As believers, we need the divine enablement of God called grace. All grace doesn’t just happen, God makes all grace happen. You also need to work your salvation with fear and trembling in order to maintain the grace of God upon your life and be that great personality He has destined you to be.

 Your sufficiency is of the Lord, but your sufficiency has an enemy that is why you need to go deeper with the Lord. Paul said, ‘a great and effectual door has been opened unto me but there are many adversaries. In your weakness, God’s strength is made perfect; the Bible makes us to know that the Holy Spirit helps our infirmities; the Holy Spirit is the distributor of grace. Naboth was running his race but Ahab came from nowhere and with his authority employed Belials against Naboth. Belials come to short circuit your life, scandalize and retire you when you are not ready. He was brought to a place where his weakness also gave in. Paul besought the Lord thrice and the Lord said to him “my grace is sufficient for you”. Even when you don’t qualify, grace will come in to qualify you in Jesus’ name!

 The intent of Belials is to disturb you. If the enemy is coming against you, his target will be based on what you like. They knew that Naboth loved lofty places and so Jezebel, the enemy used it against him. They organized a feast and gave him the high place to sit and, in the end, they took his life.

 What do you like? If the enemy gets to know of your weakness, he will use it against you. You can be tempted but don’t be drawn away, may your desires not let you be drawn away or enticed. Naboth was not meant to die before his time. He was a carrier of posterity, he carried great prophecies and he was supposed to bear great fruits but Belials short circuited his life. Stephen was stoned to death when it was not His time to die. Some people are not literally dead, but they are dead in terms of their potentials because they gave in to Jezebel and she destroyed it.

 Belials have no respect for seed (genuine anointing), they are ready to destroy you and die with you. May you not die before your time in Jesus’ name! When you are enticed, confide in somebody (your pastor, parent etc.) and it will neutralize the whole thing even before you pray. The devil is looking for soft spots; they want to kill you before your time but do not give him the chance. One of the ways to turn away from the enticement of the enemy is to postpone gratification. Know that there are some seats you are not supposed to sit on. Gehazi went for what did not belong to him and he ended up being leprous. The Belial spirit can let you sell your birth right like Esau, do not throw away your treasure. Belials do not know their worth and they would want everybody to be like them but you are exempted in Jesus’ name!

The Bible says, ‘no weapon formed against you shall prosper’. Naboth made the weapon prosper against him, he allowed himself (his lust) to be drawn and he was caught by the enemy. May that be far away from you in Jesus’ name. May you put on the whole armour of God, never cease praying and you will resist the devil. This year don’t walk amidst Belials. Belials in our days are spirits (bodiless beings) who impersonate people. May you be able to identify all Belials in your life so that you can do away with them. May this year be Belial free year for you in Jesus’ name.

 PRAYERS:

·        Pray and ask God to revive your discerning ability in order to be able make out and flush out all Belial’s in your life/family/ministry/ marriage/ business etc. in this New Year in Jesus’ name.

·        I demolish any arguments, schemes, conspiracies, and evil witnesses and all forms of Belial this year and beyond in Jesus’ name! [2 Corinthians 10:4]

·        I declare any inhibitions of Belial and their evil barriers to be broken in Jesus’ name!

·        Declare a Belial free year in Jesus’ name!

·        Pray and ask God to help you not be caught in Belial activities in Jesus’ name. [Luke 6:31 do to others as you would have them do to you. (NIV)]

[hurting-fictional-people]

could you please do one where the villian is all mean and evil and whatnot, a typical villian, but then they accidentally kill someone. they ain't never killed no one before, and an immediate breakdown ensues, and the hero is the only one there to comfort them? like the hero knows murder is wrong but the villian is hurting so bad that the hero just looks past it and provides comfort? I would love this very much if you did it. Also, a gold star will be given to you if the villian is touch starved

anon you are a genius! that is such an amazing idea, it was an absolute delight to write it >:) I hope you like it!!

(CW: death by falling from a high building. that's pretty much what this revolves around, so there's a lot of talk about the dead civilian, loads of blood and tears and a failed CPR. it's pretty much what the ask says :))

-

Villain looks uncaring. Smirk on their lips, squared shoulders. Hero might've fallen for the act, weren’t it for the slight crease between their eyebrows or the way their eyes dart between their victim and Hero from time to time.

“Let them go, Villain,” Hero tries, taking a slow step forward. “They have nothing to do with any of this. This plan isn’t even yours, you don’t have to go through with it.”

There's fear in Villain's eyes when they stare at Hero. A flash of it, and then it's gone.

Villain is too young to be in the middle of this, to be working for Supervillain. But still old enough to narrow their eyes and raise an eyebrow in challenge.

“Another step and I’ll drop them.”

The civilian levitating behind them squeals in terror when Villain lets their power slip just enough for their victim to waver a little. Hero can’t help but glance over the railing behind themself, at the ground twenty stories below the rooftop they’re in. Neither can the civilian. Their eyes are wide and wet when they meet Hero’s.

“Stay back, Hero,” Villain says in a lower voice. It sounds apologetic, this time. Nervous.

Hero shakes their head once, heart hammering as they watch the civilian’s legs dangle in open air.

“Villain…”

It happens in the blink of an eye – one sudden honk from a car passing by the street, and Villain’s balance falters at the same time their focus does.

It’s only a flinch. Instinctual.

But it’s enough for them to trip forward when the wind blows against them, magic forgotten in the split second they take to plant their feet on the floor and turn around.

It’s just long enough for the civilian to fall.

Too fast for Hero to act, too fast for Villain to extend their power and catch them before a dull, resounding thud reaches their ears.

Arm still outstretched to their victim, Villain stares at the ground below in stunned silence.

Hero sprints to their side, blinking at the body lying broken on the street. Their breath gets caught in their throat as do the horrified words that bubble up, ready to be thrown at Villain.

The civilian’s eyes are still open, just as wide as they were a moment before, but vacant now. Staring at nothing instead of pleading for salvation.

Hero’s hands tremble on the rooftop railing, but before they can gather any of their thoughts, their enemy is already turning around and running.

“No!” Hero shouts, darting behind them to the staircase.

Hero moves as fast as they can, skipping steps as they rush down the stairs, but Villain is too many steps ahead. When Hero reaches the ground floor and runs to the street, they’re already out of sight.

“Villain,” Hero calls, only the echo of their own voice responding. Gritting their teeth, they run around the building in search of a glimpse of where their nemesis might've fled to.

They hesitate for a moment before turning the corner to where the civilian’s body is, not quite ready to see the one they couldn’t save.

Hero takes a deep breath, considering calling for backup instead of facing it on their own. And then something reaches their ears.

Gasping breaths, soft whimpers.

Has the civilian survived?

Hero rushes to the alley in which that poor victim fell, but stops as soon as their eyes find the source of the sounds.

“Villain?” they breathe, frowning at the figure straddling the civilian’s body, bloodied hands pressing against their chest in a steady rhythm, panting as they count under their breath.

Hero’s stomach twists at the sight, at the blood covering the asphalt and soaking into their enemy’s clothes, at the limp body beneath them.

“Villain,” Hero calls again, louder.

Villain’s head shoots up, but their hands don’t stop and neither does the soft count. When their eyes lock on Hero’s, there’s only burning despair to be seen.

“Stop,” Hero snaps. “It’s too late for that.”

A hitched breath sounds, and though their hands slow to a stop over the civilian’s chest, Villain doesn’t move. They simply look back at the body.

Hero should call the police. It’s too late for the ambulance, but they should have Villain arrested now, when they're distracted. Go find Supervillain and make them pay, too.

But for some reason, they can’t convince themself to move.

Not when Villain raises lost eyes to their again, lips trembling when the whispered words slip out like a secret.

“I killed them.”

“Yeah, you did,” Hero answers coldly.

Villain looks back down, at the blood coating their hands, then at the civilian’s face, pale under the moonlight.

“I killed them,” Villain whimpers again, slowly getting up on shaky legs and immediately stumbling a few paces back until their back hits the wall on the other side of the alley. “I, I… I didn’t mean to kill them.”

Their breaths come out shallow as they speak, hitching with choked sobs.

“Villain…”

“I, I never meant–” they shake their head, a wild movement that isn’t wild enough to make the gruesome scene in front of them go away. “Hero, I killed them,” they breathe, almost disbelieving.

Hero narrows their eyes and waits, watching their nemesis hug themself, bloody handprints now marking their arms though Villain doesn't seem to notice it. Their whole body shakes when their legs fail and they slip to the ground, back pressed against the wall and knees to their chest.

“P-please, I never meant… I was just following orders, I’m not a murderer,” they gasp, tears rolling down their cheeks as Villain stares at their victim. Their words are barely louder than a whisper. “I’m not a murderer.”

You are now, is the only thing Hero comes up with. Looking at Villain’s rapid breaths and the tears still streaming down their cheeks though, they bite back the words.

“I didn’t mean to,” Villain wails, voice breaking. “I d-didn’t… I, I I killed them, oh my– …I killed them.”

“Villain, you’re hyperventilating,” Hero finally says, stepping forward and crouching down in front of their crying enemy. “Take a deep breath.”

Villain shakes their head, crawling around Hero to look at the civilian again, and then closer. Hero simply turns around to watch them move.

They kneel beside the body, tears falling and mixing with blood when Villain reaches a shaky hand to the civilian’s face.

Hero sprints forward.

“Villain, don’t–”

And then stops, frozen a moment before shoving Villain away. Lost in horror, their enemy doesn't even realize Hero's moved as their trembling fingers gently close the civilian’s eyelids.

“I’m so sorry, so so s-sorry,” they whisper.

“It’s too late for that, too,” Hero murmurs.

Villain’s eyes are a boundless pit of guilt when they look up at Hero. So filled with bone-deep sorrow, that for a moment Hero forgets that the person weeping in front of them is entirely responsible for this.

“I never… I never meant to…” Villain breaks into a sob, raising blood-soaked hands to their face, only to stop a moment before touching it, as if only then remembering what coats them. Villain stares at their palms like they’ve never seen them before. “I killed someone.”

Hero sighs and with a small nod, squeezes Villain’s shoulder.

Villain flinches away so hard that they almost fall on the dead body.

“Please, it was an accident, I never meant, I didn’t want to, I…”

“I know,” Hero says softly, kneeling beside them once more. They look so weirdly small like this, with blood covering their hands and clothes and soul, but such raw desperation on their face that Hero can’t help but extend their hand again and hold Villain’s arm. “I know you didn’t.”

“You do?” Villain says in a small voice.

“Yeah, I do.”

Villain sobs again, hands quivering on their lap and staining their pants red as they stare at their victim.

Hero doesn’t say anything as Villain cries, but they also don’t move away. They simply stay there, hearing Villain’s breathless pleads for the forgiveness of someone who isn’t alive anymore to give it.

When their enemy rocks to the side, Hero gently catches them, arms wrapping around Villain’s shaking shoulders. Villain leans against them, head buried against the crook of Hero’s neck, but face still turned to the side. Eyes still on the civilian.

“I’m not a killer,” Villain whispers in between sobs. “I never wanted to… I never–”

“I know,” Hero sighs, squeezing Villain against their chest. “I know.”

[blzzrdstryr]

Signed in blood

Yandere!Zhongli x Yaksha!gn!reader

Wordcount: 2541

CW: Yandere themes, mentioned violence and death, unhealthy power dynamics

Long before Liyue’s borders had been established and the harbor bloomed into the prosperous city that it is today, the Geo Lord, Rex Lapis gathered all lesser deities and spirits dwelling in the current nation’s territory and concluded a contract with most of them, ensuring the protection of his country and people. Some of them signed a contract out of fear before archon’s power, some did it for mutual benefit and some out of gratitude and deep reverence. You are in the latter category, a simple forest spirit that was saved from the distorted monsters left after the archon war by his grace and power alone.

It was a simple day when you felt an enormously malicious energy surrounding your green abode, and soon they showed up, killing intent and will of dead archons seeping out of them. You were fast and agile enough to dodge creatures' hits, which couldn't be said about the others. Your fellow spirits and animals with whom you were sharing this forest soon fell victim to the perpetrators' attacks. Dark energy entered and desecrated the lands, poisoned the waters and even possessed the bodies of your old friends.

You were running away, fatigue finally catching up to you, despite the inhuman nature and you soon fell to the ground. There were a myriad of thoughts and feelings reeling inside of you - grief for your now dead friends and home, anger at the monsters and most importantly frustration with yourself. You aren’t human, not a single part of you is, so why were you so weak and helpless, unable to do anything as you left your loved ones for slaughter and massacre?

Guilt and shame washed over you, as you allowed tears to burst free - you were bad, you were disgusting for not doing anything, not helping anyone. Monstrous roars and growls got closer, a promise and a threat of what will happen to you. You closed your eyes, accepting the imminent end and bracing for the upcoming pain. And then the most unexpected thing happened - the earth underneath you vibrated, tremors knocking the beasts off their feet, as a tall basalt pillar rose from the ground.

Soon the stranger appeared, ending the monsters in one swift and elegant slash of his spear. He donned an otherwise simple white attire adorned with golden threads, with a long ponytail showing from the hood, but the most eye-catching details were piercing amber eyes and the glowing patterns all over his body of the same colour. You forgot how to breathe for a second as you watched your unexpected savior - he was beyond handsome, possessing the kind of beauty that would have mortals blushing and stuttering.

He then looked around, finally noticing your sprawled form. “Are you all right?”he asked, his tranquil and calm voice tinted by the shadow of concern and lending his hand. “I am”, you sputtered out and took an outstretched limb, feeling infinitely clumsy and ugly, face heating up from embarrassment. “That is good”, his voice despite still possessing the same serenity took a warmer tone.

As you learned later, you were saved by one of the seven remaining archons, a lord of geo. Filled with shame for your dishonorable escape and gratitude for your unforeseen salvation you signed the tightest contract with Rex Lapis - a blood written pact.

Unlike the contracts mortals establish, a contract between two immortal beings lacks the parchment or ink or a signature, they use magic and techniques that echo directly into their soul, preventing even the possibility of the terms' violation. Blood written pact binds to the vital essences of one, an ancient magic flaring up once the contractor intends to break the agreement, stopping and warning them of what's to come once they do breach it.

Your blood sizzled and boiled as you pledged your life to Liyue, magic singing in your veins and resonating with your soul - Rex Lapis saw the potential in you to be a great warrior and designated you to serve him as one of the yakshas, so you obeyed, training your body and spirit to withstand the endless calamities you no doubt will have to face. One day, after a grueling training you almost gave up, but forced yourself past your limits. I must redeem myself and repay Rex Lapis, you thought, gritting your teeth and taking a battle stance again, and then a miracle happened: a blue glowing orb materialized in the air - a vision bestowed by the hydro archon.

Sometimes you still reminisce about this moment and recite the oath you gave back then - I pledge my life to the protection of the Liyue nation and the will of Geo Archon, Rex Lapis for all the centuries to come.

Soon, you ended your training and started to protect Liyue just like other four adeptis all of whom were also saved by the Geo Lord. For centuries you five defended the nation as it bloomed and grew into something that you couldn't even imagine. And even after centuries of slaughter as your karmic debt started to slowly eat you from inside, slowly, but surely devouring your sanity by the smallest pieces you always found strength to move forward by recalling your first meeting with Rex Lapis, reverence before your God and guilt before the dead driving you further and further.

With time a dull, yet constant pain made its way into your bones. Sometimes it would make your eyes fill with unshed tears, sometimes wake you up in those rare times you slept without nightmares, sometimes it made your hands tremble, almost dropping the weapon in the middle of the battle. You couldn’t suppress and endure it like Xiao does, letting out a pained whimper here and there, yet you still upheld your duty to the Liyue. It almost felt like routine, until two awful events happened: the death and defection.

The fear and hatred of all those who fell victims to your weapons were slowly seeping in your minds, driving you mad with bloodlust. It all happened so quickly: you were watching out for other demons as Bonanus and Pervases were patching up Alatus after the intense battle, while Bosacius looked at the other front, weapons ready, and then Bonanus lashed out, aiming for Xiao's neck. The anemo yaksha quickly darted to the side, but the weapon still grazed the copper bird's neck, his blood forming a quickly growing pool underneath. You had to put the bloodlusted yaksha yourself, something inside of you breaking as you did so - it was one thing to stand against hordes of demons and monsters and it was another to kill your friend.

You couldn’t talk or look into the eyes of the other two after that, despising yourself for yet another failure - first your forest, then your friends, you were helpless to save anyone. And then Bosacius left, you had no idea where he vanished, but these two events prompted Rex Lapis to visit both you and Xiao, as yakshas shrinked in numbers from five to two in less than a week.

You kneel before the Geo archon when you notice his tall figure between the ancient trees - unlike Xiao, you prefer to live in the woods, the familiarity of nature reminiscent of a home you once lost. Your Lord ushers you to stand up, his face solemn and grim.

“[First]”, he starts, exhaustion evident in each syllable: "For centuries you protected my Harbor, and despite turbulent times passing you still uphold your duty. I find that admirable".

Your eyes go wide and you turn your head, unable to receive such high praise from your God, you feel your cheeks heat up at the compliment, acknowledgement of your hard work, and even constant pain or the death and disappearance of your colleagues became less serious of the issue for a mere moment.

"I am not worthy of such praise, my lord, I am only doing my job, fulfilling the contract", you deflect, looking at him again. Archon's eyes crease a little and a small frown appears as you say "contract", yet he quickly wills his face into an impassive mask.

"I suppose I made a mistake when I asked you to be my yaksha back then, I have misjudged your worth ", he continues, voice becoming distant and strangely tense, as he reminisces about the days long past, amber eyes looking both at and through you.

"My lord, I…", you start and then stumble over the words, unsure what to say next. Is this his way of telling you that you're bad at your job? You cast your head down, eyes lowered in shame, hands that spilled adeptus' blood trembling and burning. "I am deeply sorry for letting you down in that way, I will do my best to redeem myself from now on” .

A warm hand touches your shoulder, squeezing it slightly in a comforting manner. His palm is warm and firm, comforting in its steadiness like a tall cliff standing proudly against the raging tides, indestructible and reliable.

"You have no reason to apologize for this. Something like this would inevitably happen sooner or later, you have no fault in the events that occured. I suppose karmic debt would drive one of you insane eventually".

He sounds calming, reassuring, like a parent soothing a child. You still don’t lift your head to meet his gaze - you’re too guilty and unworthy to do that. There are no words you can speak now, not when you have been so thoroughly destroyed by your lord’s kindness - how can he look at you and see someone innocent?

“No, I meant that all those centuries ago, when I first met you I didn’t discern the gem hidden in the crude ore” he adopts reminiscent tone again, his hand now moving on your shoulder in slow and steady rhythm: “I knew I wanted you to be by my side, I didn’t know who I wanted you to be though. I needed time to understand my own feelings and the way I viewed you, and then I needed some more time to accept those sentiments”.

“What sentiments, my lord?”, you ask, finally looking up to him, brows slightly frowned in confusion and curiosity - it’s rare to see the Geo archon talk about his inner workings so openly, as he usually prefers to keep a cordial distance or masterfully redirects the conversation into a completely different direction.

“Over the years, as you protected my nation and my people, I finally understood it”, his hand shifts from your shoulder and now he cups your own two palms in a firm yet gentle hold: “I cherish you, [First]”.

The sudden declaration leaves you stunned and speechless for a good minute: you look at your god with wide eyes, mouth opening several times like a fish out of water. A myriad of thoughts and feelings go through you: confusion, disbelief, inferiority.

“I… That is very sudden for me to… learn about your affections”, you finally utter, forgetting to add respectful “my lord” at the end. Your voice comes off as small and hesitant as you say so. Rex Lapis doesn’t seem to mind your confusion as he takes a second to collect his own thoughts.

“The yaksha title I have burdened you with takes a toll both on your mind and your body. I severely miscalculated, so I want to redeem this mistake”, he sounds regretful now, one hand moving to caress and cup your face. You go stiff, still overwhelmed by the whole conversation. “I can free you from your contract if you decide to become my life companion”.

“But, my lord, it’s so sudden I can’t just..”

“Hush, I won’t pressure you into an intimate relationship right away. No, we will wait and learn about each other and once you will be comfortable enough to let me enter your life and your heart we will marry, uniting our fates with a contract that shall never end”.

You lower your head again, but this time in contemplation instead of guilt and shame. What do you feel for Rex Lapis? Admiration - he is a powerful deity, capable enough to flatten mountains and raise new ones with a single slash of his spear. Gratitude - he was the one that saved you and sheltered you, until you grew strong enough, he gave you a reason to live when you had none. Respect - he is a capable leader, smart enough to build a foundation and guide people of the most magnificent nation in Teyvat.

You feel no love for him, not the kind of love he wants anyway. You know about his patience and how affections sometimes take years to finally mature and bloom, but the thought of spending decades, maybe even centuries in hopes that one day you will reciprocate is nauseating to you.

How do you feel about it? A part of you wants it - it’s an easy way out to get rid of the pain, of the fear and bloodshed, of the death that clings to you at every waking moment. You remember how you spend most of your nights sleepless, drowsiness leaving you the same second you dream of blood and carnage and massacre. You remember your whole body throbbing and burning on especially bad days, when even Remedium Tertiorum can’t do its job. You remember crying and gasping for air after the weight of the slaughtered gets too heavy for you to handle.

You almost say yes, out of these reasons alone, but you stop yourself - you think of Xiao, of how lonely he will become once you leave. You think of heartfelt smiles that mortals gift you with on those rare occasions you have to save them. You think of the slaughtered spirits before whom you still have to atone to.

“I am sorry, my lord” You look him straight in the eyes, bracing yourself for the words you are about to say: “I can’t match your feelings, nor can I accept your offer, not now at least”.

Amber eyes lose their warmth in the instance, the comforting aura he was exuding earlier replaced by the weird tension between you two. Looking at this image, you suddenly remember how ruthless Rex Lapis can be on the battlefield as for a fraction of the second he looks at you as you’re an enemy.

A horrible pain shoots right through your body, and your short scream follows. You fall on the floor, gasping for air, deaf and blind from the overwhelming pain. Geo archon quickly takes your form, carrying you to your sleeping place, as you try your best to breathe and not cry.

“It must be a blood pact acting up, the magic must have taken your refusal as disobedience to the contract”, he says once the agony lightens, enough for you to focus on the conversation, “you did pledge your life to my will”.

You try to half sit on your elbow, to look him in the eyes and say something other than the pained groans and whimpers, as his next words instill a sense of quiet dread in you:

“I hope you will rethink and take back your words out of your own volition, [First]. I would hate to order you to”.

[hiswordsarekisses]

This is so good! 💞💞💞

“Yeshua said: "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Note that the spiritual life of Messiah flows from our connection with him, though the very possibility for that connection is the blessing of grace...

We cannot create the new birth by means of moral reformation, since the divine life is a miracle from above and not the result of human agency or aspiration (John 1:13; John 3:6). If we "live in" Yeshua we will bear fruit - our spiritual connection or "union" with him is sufficient for every good work, but only fruit that derives from the life of Messiah will abide (1 John 2:17).

Good works are a necessary consequence of regeneration in Messiah, but by themselves they are insufficient and something more is needed (Matt. 7:21-23). Therefore the Scriptures point to the salvation of God and his grace as the efficient cause for the miracle of newness of life: "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us..." (Titus 3:5); "for by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves (τοῦτο οὐκ ἐξ ὑμῶν), it is the gift of God" (Eph. 2:8); "so if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace" (Rom. 11:6).

Grace and human effort are mutually exclusive when it comes to life from above: "It is the Spirit that gives life (τὸ πνεῦμά ἐστιν τὸ ζῳοποιοῦν); the flesh (i.e., human nature) is no help at all" (John 6:63). There is a new “center” of identity within the heart: "I is no longer I who live..." (Gal. 2:19-20). We do not appeal to God for mercy based on our best efforts, but like father Abraham we believe that God brings life to the dead. In short we believe that "salvation is of the LORD" (יְשׁוּעָתָה לַיהוָה), that is, that God justifies the ungodly and performs the inner work of salvation on our behalf and for our healing (see Rom. 4:1-5:2).

The Christian is in a different position from other people who are trying to be good. They hope, by being good, to please God if there is one; or -- if they think there is not -- at least they hope to deserve approval from good men. But the Christian thinks any good he does comes from the Christ-life inside him. He does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us; just as the roof of a greenhouse does not attract the sun because it is bright, but becomes bright because the sun shines on it” (Mere Christianity).

However we must not confuse cause and effect. The work of God is to believe in Yeshua (John 6:29) and we then learn to "work out" what God has "worked in" to our hearts by faith, as it says, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure" (Phil. 2:12-13). God who has performed a good work in you will "confirm you to the end blameless in the Day of our Messiah Yeshua" (1 Cor. 1:8; Jude 1:24-25). Amen. [Hebrew for Christians]”