Category: Growth
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Seize the Day: Live Fully and Find Your Joy
Imagine waking up every morning with a sense of excitement, ready to conquer whatever the day throws at you. Now, picture that excitement being overshadowed by a storm of worry about the future. It’s time to reclaim your joy. “Don’t let fear of tomorrow steal today’s joy. Live fully and make each moment count.” –…
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Guard Your Spirit, Control Your Emotions: A Deep Dive into Proverbs 25:28
Proverbs 25:28 (NKJV) tells us, “Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.” This powerful metaphor highlights the critical importance of self-control and maintaining inner peace. Let’s unpack this verse and see what it means for us today, using both Old and New Testament perspectives. The Metaphor…
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Living by Faith: How Beliefs Shape Our Actions
Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often? “The word of God strengthens my beliefs and my beliefs govern what I think, say, and do.” This isn’t just a fancy line I like to say—it’s my daily guide. You know how easy it is to let the ups and…
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Finding Peace in End Times Prophecy
In our increasingly complex world, where news of conflict and unsettling rumors of wars often dominate headlines, a profound biblical message serves as a source of peace and reassurance. This message, encapsulated in Matthew 24:6 from the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, states: “And you will hear of wars and rumors…
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Holding onto Truth in the End Times
In an era increasingly marked by confusion and falsehood, deception looms as a profound challenge, particularly as we approach what many believe to be the end times described in biblical prophecy. This period is characterized not just by widespread misinformation but by a spiritual deceit that threatens to lead many astray, fulfilling the forewarnings given…
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Material vs. Spiritual
To get ready for end-time events, it’s important to know what to focus on and how to prepare. Imagine standing in front of a huge, beautiful building like a grand cathedral or an old temple. It looks so strong and amazing that you might think it could last forever. But even these impressive buildings won’t…
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Tribulation Warning: Are You Ready?
All these are the beginning of sorrows. Matthew 24:8 NKJV Are we on the brink of the end times, or are we merely witnessing the warning signs? According to Matthew 24:8, we’re not in the thick of it yet. We’re in the time just before it, where things are getting pretty shaky. Jesus spoke of…
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The Law and the Power of Sin: A Paradox Explained
The complexity of sin and its relationship with the law is a subject that has puzzled many believers. Paul’s letter to the Romans sheds light on this perplexing issue, particularly in Romans 7:7-11, where he discusses how the law, rather than diminishing sin’s power, actually gives it strength. This idea is further echoed in 1…
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Finding Grace: Beyond Guilt and Law
Paul, in Romans 2, doesn’t hold back. He’s addressing a pretty sticky situation with the Jews of his time who were pretty confident in their own righteousness. They were leaning heavily into their religious practices and the law, thinking this made them better or somehow more acceptable to God than others. But Paul throws a…
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God’s Grace: The Real Deal About Divine Love
Have you ever felt like you’re constantly being judged, like you’re never quite measuring up? It’s a feeling many of us know too well, especially when it comes to spirituality. There’s this idea floating around that God is some kind of cosmic scorekeeper, tallying up our rights and wrongs, ready to punish us at any…
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Believe in Your People: The Power of Support
Have you ever seen someone try something new and thought, “Well, that’s not going to work”? It’s something we all do, especially with people we know well, like our friends and family. But there’s a lesson we can learn from a story about Jesus that might change how we think. In the Bible, there’s a…
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Salvation: The Ultimate Package Deal
Salvation, often thought of as just a ticket to heaven or a get-out-of-hell-free card, is actually way more than that. It’s like a mega gift pack that includes everything Jesus paid for when He died and rose again. When the Bible talks about salvation, it’s not just whispering about forgiveness; it’s shouting about healing, freedom,…
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Transformed by Grace
At the heart of Paul’s message in Romans is the concept of grace, a theme that starkly contrasts with the law-driven righteousness that had defined religious observance up to that point. This shift from law to grace is more than doctrinal; it is deeply personal, touching the very core of our relationship with God and…
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The Gospel of Grace: A Fresh Look
The term “gospel” often floats around in conversations, sermons, and religious texts, sometimes losing its depth and transforming into a catch-all term for religious messages. However, Paul’s letter to the Romans peels back layers of tradition to reveal the gospel in its purest form: as the exhilarating good news of God’s grace. It’s a message…
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Grace Over Law: The Freedom of Faith
In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he introduces a revolutionary concept that shifted the way we understand our relationship with God. He wrote to believers in Rome, a mix of Gentiles (non-Jews) and Jews, who had embraced Christianity but were struggling with integrating their new faith with old Jewish laws like circumcision, dietary laws, and…
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Scripture, Science, and Our Unique Design
Which aspects do you think makes a person unique? Imagine standing at the crossroads where faith meets science, a place where the mysteries of creation and the intricacies of the universe unfold. Here, the timeless wisdom of the Bible and the cutting-edge discoveries of science come together, revealing a fascinating truth: science doesn’t contradict the…
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When the Giants Leave: Finding My Own Faith
Growing up in the realm of faith, my path was illuminated by spiritual giants. These individuals weren’t just mentors; they were the Moses of my life, leading me through my own spiritual wilderness with their wisdom and conviction. In their presence, I felt an unspoken strength, as if together, we could part any sea of…
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Gethsemane’s Guide to Being There for Others
When our hearts ache for support in times of trouble, it’s not uncommon to find that those around us—our friends and family—may not fully grasp the depth of our distress. Their inability to provide the support we seek isn’t born out of indifference or neglect but stems from a lack of understanding of our inner…
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How Judas Became a Betrayer
Judas Iscariot was one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, chosen to be close to Him. This means Judas was part of Jesus’ inner circle, trusted with the group’s money, and involved deeply in Jesus’ life and ministry. Judas saw miracles happen right in front of him, like sick people being healed and those without hope finding…
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Who Was The Naked Boy in the Garden?
In the middle of a night that would be remembered throughout history, a curious and intriguing event took place in the Garden of Gethsemane, detailed in a passage from the King James Version of the Bible: “And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the…
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Choosing Peace: Why Jesus Rode a Donkey Instead of a Horse
On Palm Sunday, Christians around the world remember a unique moment from the Bible: Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem. Unlike a conquering hero on a mighty horse, Jesus chose a humble donkey for his journey. This decision wasn’t just practical; it carried deep symbolic meaning, reflecting Jesus’s teachings on peace, humility, and the nature of his…
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Breaking the Man: Choosing God’s Path
In the army, there’s this tough but cool idea: they gotta break you down before they build you up. Think of it like stripping away all the stuff about you that doesn’t fit for a soldier—your solo vibe, your ego, even your own game plan. Then they rebuild you with all the right stuff: discipline,…
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The Hostage Voice Unveiled
Within the shadows of my existence, life unfolds like a tragic tale. The depths of my struggles echo in the abyss, where a mere 6-foot hole becomes a descent of 12 feet, a mile stretches into an arduous 10, and moments linger like a lifetime. Why is the journey so laden with obstacles? Why do…
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Playtime Chronicles: Uno, Hide and Seek, & Tales for the Soul
Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you? Playtime, to me, is like this fantastic pause button in the adult world—a chance to step into a world of fun and connection. Family game nights are a staple, but Monopoly tends to stretch longer than expected, so Uno swoops in as the…
family, food, funny, Gratitude, Growth, identity, legacy, Life, Love, motivational, purpose, relationships, Thanksgiving -
Embrace Your Warrior Spirit: Conquering Life’s Battleground
In the epic saga of life, challenges emerge as fierce adversaries, testing the mettle of the warrior within us. But remember, a warrior doesn’t flinch in the face of adversity; they rise, fueled by unyielding determination. Imagine yourself clad in armor, not to hide, but to stand boldly against life’s onslaughts. Challenges aren’t enemies; they’re…
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Revolutionizing Our Lives: New Year, Fresh Changes
As the calendar turns to a new year, imagine an expansive canvas waiting for the strokes of our aspirations, like a vast landscape awaiting exploration. Each passing day, a new shade on the canvas of existence, akin to melodies orchestrated by the hands of time. Reflecting on the chapters of the year past feels like…
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1976: A Year of Cosmic Hits, Touchdowns, and Rebel Anthems!
Share what you know about the year you were born. Imagine ’76, a year that sizzled hotter than a barbecue grill! The USA blew out 200 candles, throwing a bash that would make fireworks jealous. Apple said, “Hey world, watch out!” with its first baby steps in the tech world. Montreal turned into a sports…
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Beyond the Veil of Despair: A Sanctuary in Everlasting Grace
In the depths of my being, there reside experiences too agonizing, too piercing to articulate—whispers of despair that etch themselves into the fabric of my soul, leaving behind scars that ache with the memory of unbearable anguish. They linger, haunting the edges of consciousness, aching to consume me in their relentless embrace. Amidst this tumult…
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Crimson Threads of Redemption: Lucius Cassius Unraveled
In the labyrinthine veins of ancient Rome, where the splendor of prosperity intermingled with the mysterious shadows of moral ambiguity, Lucius Cassius emerged as a titan of unparalleled distinction and fascination. Born from modest origins, Lucius nurtured an insatiable hunger for success that propelled him through the stratums of Roman society. His formative years were…
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Crown of Glory or Millstone Award: The Crossroads of Influence
Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! [2] It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.…
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The Fear of God: Embracing Reverence, Obedience, and Sacrificial Living
The fear of God stands as a foundational principle in Christian faith, encompassing reverence, obedience, and sacrificial devotion to God’s will. It’s about acknowledging His sovereignty, holiness, and supreme authority while nurturing a loving relationship with Him. The Bible extensively discusses the fear of God, emphasizing its foundational role in wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 9:10…
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Cracking the Emotional Code: Seeking Freedom from Trigger Mines
Ever felt like emotional switches were scattered like a minefield across your life, just waiting for someone to stumble upon them? Those triggers? They’re like hidden trapdoors, instantly catapulting our emotions into a rollercoaster ride faster than you can say “surprise!” These triggers? They’re like buried treasure chests of past experiences and emotional maps, waiting…
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Decluttering Your Mental Mess
Alright, gather ’round, because it’s time to Marie Kondo your brain – no fancy gadgets needed. In a world where our brains often resemble a messy junk drawer, we’re about to embark on a laid-back mental spring cleaning. First things first, let’s spot those pesky thoughts that sneak around like unwanted guests. You know the…
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Divine Awakening: Your Christ-Centered Identity
As we sit together, taking a moment to escape the clamor of the world, I find myself drawn to the incredible concept of our identity in Christ. In this fast-paced existence, it’s all too easy to be swept away by the superficiality of life, to become ensnared in the pursuit of external validation. However, the…
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Divine Mirror: Embracing Our Role as God’s Image-Bearers
In the very beginning of creation, there is a thread that binds us to our Creator, a thread so intricate and essential that it defines our very purpose. It is the truth that we are created in the image of God, a profound reality that beckons us to embark on a journey of discovery, love,…
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The “Zoe” Life of God
I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly —John 10:10 What is this life that Jesus is speaking of? The life that Jesus is speaking of is often referred to as eternal life or the God-kind of life and Jesus defined the definition eternal life in John…
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How God Sees Us
Understanding how God sees us—our identity, worth, His actions for us, and His purpose for us—reveals the truth about who we truly are. This divine perception surpasses our own thoughts, emotions, and the opinions of others, as well as any challenging circumstances that may question our value. In essence, God’s perspective is the ultimate reality…
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Navigating the Desert of Inspiration
In the ever-changing landscape of my creative journey, I’ve often found myself wandering through deserts of inspiration, where weeks pass by without a drop of creative rain in sight. These arid stretches can be disheartening, but I’ve learned to understand that they are a natural part of my creative process. During these times, I’ve come…
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Forging Excellence: The Resonance of ‘Iron Sharpens Iron’ in the Anvil of Life
In the very fabric of human existence, the verse “Iron sharpens iron” is the fire that ignites the soul, the anvil on which character is forged, and the steady hand guiding us through the tempestuous seas of life. This age-old proverb, birthed from the wisened quill of King Solomon, resonates with an elemental force that…
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Captive Hearts: A Love Story Found in the Nursing Home
Once upon a time, in a chapter of my life filled with broken relationships and shattered dreams, I had all but given up on love. It felt like an elusive mirage, shimmering on the horizon but forever out of reach. But then, life took a turn that I could never have expected. My beloved grandmother,…
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What principles define how you live?
What principles define how you live? My life is guided by the principles found in God’s words, and though I may never fully master them, my daily pursuit is to align with these principles, aiming to be more like Christ and love people as He did. —Josh Mullins—
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The Unexpected Connection: Lessons from a Growing Relationship
In the bustling city of Metropolis, among the never-ending streams of people and towering skyscrapers, there lived a man named Oliver. Oliver was a stern and solitary figure who made his living as an investment banker. He was known for his unwavering focus on financial success, never sparing a moment for personal relationships or leisure.…
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God’s Unique Imprint: Our Kingdom Identity in Christ
Within the very existence of all mankind, God deliberately designed a marvel that captivates the human mind—the uniqueness of our fingerprints. It’s a breathtaking marvel that every person who has ever lived possesses a distinct pattern etched into their skin. Even identical twins, who share so much in common, bear different fingerprints. This extraordinary diversity…
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The Sage of The Dash
In ‘The Sage of The Dash,’ Samuel’s transformative journey from tragedy to inspiration unveils the profound impact of life’s journey. Discover how one man’s quest for purpose through personal loss crafts a legacy of love and wisdom that continues to inspire generations.
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“The Dash Between: A Legacy That Lives On”
In the short dash between the day you came into this world and the day you’ll depart, your life’s story unfolds. It’s a narrative woven from experiences, dreams, and the steady guidance of faith. Within this unassuming yet powerful symbol, we find ourselves pondering a question of profound significance: How can we create a legacy…
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Exploring the Depths of Emotion: Why Am I So Emotional?
Emotions, those vibrant colors on the canvas of our lives, define our human experience. They accompany us through moments of joy, provide comfort in times of sorrow, and guide our responses to the world around us. Yet, there’s a question that many ponder: “Why am I so emotional?” The answer is as intricate as the…
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Unity Starts at Home: A Path to Global Peace
In a world often marred by conflicts and divisions, the quest for global peace can seem like an elusive dream. However, the journey towards a more harmonious world begins not in far-off lands or international negotiations but right within the walls of our homes. Unity starts at home, and by nurturing it, we can hope…
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Navigating Feelings of Loneliness and Insignificance: Finding Your True Path
Feeling like your life doesn’t matter to anyone can be incredibly isolating and painful. It’s crucial to know that your feelings are valid, especially when you’ve spent a lifetime feeling like everyone else knows more about what you should be doing than your own self. This experience can be particularly distressing. It’s as if you’ve…
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“Fortify Your Life: Tending to Your Health with Roman Precision”
What details of your life could you pay more attention to? Imagine your life as a Roman soldier in the heart of the Empire, your mission to protect, conquer, and thrive. Every day, you march forth with unwavering determination, equipped with armor meticulously crafted for battle. Yet, amid the grandeur and tumult of Rome, there’s…
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“Coming Back from Nothing”
Life can be like a wild rollercoaster ride, filled with ups and downs. Sometimes, we find ourselves at the lowest point, feeling lost and without hope. Imagine a young artist who’s put everything into creating a beautiful artwork, like a giant puzzle made of dreams. But suddenly, everything falls apart, like a big storm wrecking…
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“The Silent Force of Achievement: What You Don’t Do Defines Your Success”
In a world overflowing with ceaseless activity and relentless ambition, the subtle power of restraint often goes unnoticed. We live in an era where the relentless pursuit of “more” and “bigger” is celebrated, but what if I told you that, sometimes, “less” and “smaller” are the keys to making a lasting impact? We’re conditioned to…
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“Embracing the Puzzle Piece: Finding Your Unique Fit in a World of Differences”
Have you ever felt like a puzzle piece that doesn’t seem to fit anywhere? Perhaps you’ve experienced the sensation of being out of place in a world where everyone else appears to effortlessly slot into their designated roles and niches. If so, you’re not alone. Many of us have struggled with this feeling at some…
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“A Standing Ovation: Embracing the Soreness After Hard Work
In the grand theater of life, there’s a peculiar phenomenon that often accompanies hard work: soreness. It’s that delightful feeling of stiffness and aches in muscles you never knew you had. Yet, rather than being a cause for complaint, it’s a sign that you’ve put in the effort, that you’ve stretched your limits, and that…
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“It’s Everyone Else’s Fault: The Blame Game in Society”
In a world filled with complex challenges and multifaceted problems, it’s become increasingly common for people to point fingers and assign blame when things go awry. Whether it’s a personal failure, a societal issue, or a global crisis, the instinct to lay blame elsewhere is a pervasive one. But is it fair or productive to…
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The Lonely Path of Truth: A Journey Worth Taking
In a world often colored by half-truths, biases, and deception, standing firmly for truth can be a daunting endeavor. It’s a path that often leads to solitude, as those who walk it must confront not only external challenges but also the isolation that accompanies their commitment to unwavering honesty. The Unpopular Vigil Standing for truth…
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The Dividing Line: Diligence Makes the Difference** In a quiet suburban neighborhood, nestled side by side, stood two houses that appeared almost identical. Both houses were built with the same blueprint, the same materials, and the same vision. They were the dream homes of two neighbors who had embarked on a journey to build their…
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“Unveiling the Writer’s Dilemma: Battling Fear of Judgment While Sharing My Story”
In the dimly lit room, with the soft hum of the computer and the tapping of keys as my only companions, I wrestle with the words on my screen. As a writer, this is my sanctuary, my safe haven. Yet, paradoxically, it’s also where my deepest fears take root—the fear of judgment. The act of…
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“Discovering Opportunity Amidst Adversity”
Life is a magnificent journey, filled with peaks and valleys, triumphs and tribulations. It’s a narrative woven with moments of celebration and challenges that test our very essence. In the grand tapestry of existence, the path from pitfalls to persistence is where our true mettle is forged, where we uncover the power within us to…
Faith Works 