Month: April 2023

  • Redemptive Vision: Prophecies, Symbols, & Guarantees Of The Messiah

    The significance of Jesus Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection goes beyond just a historical event, as it fulfills the prophecies of the Old Testament and allows us to be reconciled with God. His resurrection is a triumph over death and sin, proving that He was the Son of God and His sacrifice was sufficient to save us. It’s a reminder of God’s love for humanity and a call to live a life of love and service to others. As Christians, we are called to remember and celebrate the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection every day, as it offers hope and joy in Christ and a promise of eternal life with God.

    Sacrificial Lamb

    He willingly gave up his life for the sake of others, showing us the true meaning of love and selflessness. His death and resurrection guarantee eternal life for all who believe in him.

    This is when we have been reminded of the power of faith and the triumph of good over evil. The story of Jesus’ Resurrection fills me with hope and reassurance that even in the darkest times, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

    As I reflect on the meaning of Easter, I am struck by the depth of God’s love for us. The sacrifice of His only Son for our sins is a testament to the unconditional love that God has for every one of us. It is a love that transcends all boundaries and knows no limits.

    Psychological Symbolism

    I also see the symbolism of Easter in the journey of the soul. The death and resurrection of Jesus can be seen as a metaphor for the process of individuation, where the ego must die for the true self to emerge and be connected and whole. It reminds us that we must go through the darkness to reach the light.

    Let us remember the power of faith, the depth of God’s love, and the symbolism of the Resurrection. May it fill our hearts with hope and inspire us to live our lives with purpose and meaning.

    The Sovereign Plan of the Triune God: Predestined Redemption in the Face of Original Sin

    The Old Testament’s practice of animal sacrifice was a prophetic symbol of Jesus Christ’s unparalleled sacrifice, predestined by God before the world’s creation. His resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, bearing witness to God’s sovereignty and grace.

    Through sacrifice, we’re reminded of God’s power over sin and death and His divine plan to sanctify and justify His chosen people. This truth testifies to God’s predestination and election of His people and His infinite wisdom in redeeming humanity. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was executed according to God’s perfect will, a testament to His unfailing love for His creation.

    This plan of redemption always entailed the sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ and the assurance of everlasting life for those who believed. Easter represents the realization of the prophecy of the Messiah, who suffered persecution, sacrificed himself for our transgressions, and was resurrected on the third day.

    “The Prophetic Nature of Isaiah 53: A Reflection on Christ’s Sacrificial Love”

    The prophetic words of Isaiah 53 reveal a servant who endures rejection and suffering, but willingly bears the burdens of others.

    This servant is wounded and crushed for the transgressions of others, bringing about peace and healing through His chastisement. These parallels to Jesus Christ highlight the prophetic nature of the text and remind us of Christ’s sacrificial love for humanity.

    The Importance of Sacrifice in Redemption

    They would sacrifice animals to symbolically transfer their sins onto the poor creature, proving their unwavering faith and devotion to God. But- this was only a temporary solution because corruption is ingrained in human nature.

    Sacrificing an animal symbolizes sacrificing one’s ego and desires to connect with God. Shedding blood represents being ready to clear one’s life force for spiritual purification.

    True atonement requires transforming consciousness, mind, heart, and actions. It involves introspection, examining one’s sins and selfishness, and letting go of anything not aligned with God’s Will.

    Salvation is only through God’s grace, not through any actions or works.

    Through sacrifice, God’s grace is extended to His chosen people, allowing them to ascend to higher spiritual consciousness and attain eternal life with Him.

    DON’T DISCERN THE EXTERNAL, BUT DISCERN THE INTERNAL

    Do not be deceived by external symbols, but look within the Scriptures to find the true path to atonement. Judge not by appearances.

    Rather than just external acts of worship. True sacrifice involves a deep process of self-reflection and facing our sin shadow, rather than just doing the external acts of offering animals or performing rituals.

    Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross made it possible for us to connect with God and access spiritual truths. By being gifted the mystery of the cross, we can transcend the physical world and commune with God. This transformation requires us to surrender our sin & ego while embracing the Holy Spirit within us, leading to a state of refinement and unity with God. It is not just an intellectual understanding, but a literal spiritual experience.

    I Also Can See The Reflection Of The Fallen Nature Of Humanity In The Sacrifice

    Due to the fall of Adam and Eve, all humans are born with a sinful nature that must be sacrificed in order to attain salvation. This sacrifice is not a physical one, but a spiritual one, as we must die to ourselves and our sinful desires in order to be reborn in Christ.

    CAIN AND ABLE

    The story of Cain and Abel can be seen as a representation of the struggle between the flesh and the spirit. Cain’s offering of vegetables represents his reliance on his own works and his rejection of God’s grace, while Abel’s animal sacrifice represents his faith in God’s provision and his willingness to submit to God’s will. The rejection of Cain’s offering serves as a warning against the dangers of relying on our own works for salvation.

    Israelites’ liberation

    The story of the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. The application of the animal’s blood to the doorposts represents the protection of the Israelites from God’s judgment, just as Christ’s blood protects believers from the judgment of sin. The sacrifice of the animal represents the need for a perfect sacrifice to atone for sin, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

    LEVITICUS SACRIFICE

    The sacrifices outlined in the book of Leviticus serve as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. The requirement for an animal without blemish represents the need for a perfect sacrifice, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

    The shedding of the animal’s blood represents the shedding of Christ’s blood on the cross, which atones for the sins of believers.

    WHY DOES IT ATONE?

    The resurrection is not just a historical fact, but a life-changing reality that transforms our very being. It is the ultimate victory over death and sin, and the assurance of eternal life with our Savior.

    As I meditate on the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 15, I am reminded that without the resurrection, our faith is in vain.

    But How Can I Fully Comprehend This Mystery?

    It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that I can begin to grasp the depth of God’s love and the magnitude of His plan for redemption. As I surrender my heart to Him, I am filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of the resurrection.

    Let us open our hearts to the truth of the gospel and the Holy Spirit will reveal the beauty of the resurrection in all its glory.

    May we never lose sight of the hope that it brings, and may it be a constant reminder of the love and grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

    THE TRUE HOLY OF HOLIES IS NOT MATERIAL

    Christ entered the holiest place with his blood, obtaining eternal redemption and cleansing our consciences from dead works so that we can serve the living God.

    “But Christ… entered the most holy place once for all time, not by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a young cow, sprinkling those who are defiled, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works so that we can serve the living God” (Hebrews 9:11-14).

    "For the blood of bulls and goats can't take away sins." - Hebrews 10:4

    "But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God." - Hebrews 10:12

    "In him, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace." - Ephesians 1:7

    JESUS HAS POWER TO CLEANSEB ALLB SINS

    The Bible teaches us in 1 John 1:7 that the blood of Jesus, who is the son of God, has the power to purify us from all sin.

    “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” – 1 John 1:7

    “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12

    “Under the old covenant, the priest stands and ministers before the altar day after day, offering the same sacrifices again and again, which can never take away sins.  But our High Priest offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then he sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand” (Hebrews 10:11-12)

    Join me in seeking to understand this mystery.

  • Are You Vulnerable to Deception and Manipulation?

    In today’s world, it is more important than ever to be aware of the dangers of deception and manipulation.

    With the rise of social media and the internet, it is easier than ever for people to spread false information and to manipulate others.

    There are a number of factors that can make people vulnerable to deception and manipulation. These include:

    Lack of knowledge: People who are not well-informed about a particular topic are more likely to be deceived by false information.

    Emotional state: People who are feeling stressed, anxious, or angry are more likely to be manipulated by others.

    Desire for approval: People who want to be liked or accepted by others are more likely to be manipulated into doing things they would not normally do.

    Trust: People who trust others are more likely to be deceived by them.

    If you are concerned about being vulnerable to deception and manipulation, there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself. These include:

    Be critical of the information you encounter: Don’t just believe everything you read or hear. Take the time to evaluate the source of the information and to consider the evidence that is presented.

    Be aware of your own biases: Everyone has biases, and these can make us more susceptible to deception. Be aware of your own biases and try to be objective when evaluating information.

    Don’t be afraid to ask questions: If you are unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you know, the less likely you are to be deceived.

    Trust your gut: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you have a bad feeling about something, don’t ignore it.

  • THE ARCHETYPE OF JESUS IN LITERATURE

    Jesus, also known as Jesus of Nazareth or Jesus Christ, is a historical and religious figure who appointed Christianity. The archetype of Jesus has been utilized in literature for centuries, representing the ultimate embodiment of virtue, selflessness, and sacrifice. This guide will examine the archetype of Jesus in literature, exploring its origins, evolution, and significance.

    Definition of an Archetype

    The term archetype contains various meanings. It can refer to an original model that all other similar persons, objects, or concepts are derived from, a prototype.

    In literature, it can refer to a character, story, or object based on a known character, account, or object. It can also represent an ideal example of something, a quintessence.

    In psychology, Carl Jung postulated that an individual’s unconscious inherited universal patterns of thought from the past collective experience of humanity. Yet, in textual criticism, it refers to the original manuscript or photograph from which copies are made.

    An archetype is a universal symbol, motif or pattern that evokes deep human emotions and experiences. It represents a recurring idea, behavior, or personality trait that is found across different cultures and periods of history.

    Common Archetypes

    The Hero:

    The hero is often the main protagonist who sets out on a journey or mission to save someone or something important. The hero represents the courage and determination that we must all summon to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

    The Villain

    The villain archetype represents our darker impulses and desires. The villain is often the main antagonist who seeks to block the hero’s progress. The villain represents our fears, insecurities and negative emotions that we need to confront and overcome.

    The Wise Old Man

    Representing knowledge and experience. The wise old man character is often a mentor or advisor to the hero, offering guidance and wisdom. The wise old man represents the importance of learning from our mistakes and experiences.

    The Mother

    The mother archetype represents nurturing, love, and protection. The mother is often seen as the caretaker and provider, representing our need for security and safety.

    The Trickster

    Represents chaos and mischief. The trickster is often unpredictable and mischievous, challenging our assumptions and pushing us out of our comfort zones.

    The Shadow

    The shadow archetype represents our dark side, the parts of ourselves that we often try to hide or deny. The shadow is often the side of ourselves that we are afraid to confront, but it is also the source of our creativity and strength.

    Why Are Archetypes Important?

    Archetypes are important because they help us make sense of the world and our place in it. They provide a framework for understanding the complex emotions and experiences that we all face. By recognizing and understanding archetypes, we can gain insight into ourselves and the world around us, and we can use this knowledge to become better human beings.

    Archetype Overview

    Archetypes are deeply rooted in our collective unconscious and influence the way we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. Some common archetypes include the hero, the villain, the mentor, the trickster, the caregiver, and the explorer.

    Brief History and Significance of the Archetype of Jesus

    The archetype of Jesus in literature can be traced back to the Bible, where Jesus is portrayed as a selfless and compassionate figure who sacrificed his life for the salvation of humanity. The portrayal of Jesus in the Bible has been a source of inspiration for writers throughout history, who have used his story to explore the human condition and the search for redemption.

    Dante’s Divine Comedy

    One of the earliest examples of the archetype of Jesus in literature is Dante’s Divine Comedy, written in the 14th century. In this epic poem, Jesus is depicted as a symbol of love and mercy, guiding the narrator through the afterlife. Dante’s portrayal of Jesus as a savior and a guide was influential in shaping the Christian imagination.

    The Death of Ivan Ilyich

    Another significant example is Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich, written in the 19th century. In this novel, Jesus is portrayed as a symbol of forgiveness and compassion, offering redemption to even the most flawed and sinful individuals. Tolstoy’s portrayal of Jesus as a figure of compassion and forgiveness reflects his own spiritual beliefs and his rejection of institutionalized religion.

    Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea

    In the 20th century, the archetype of Jesus underwent a radical transformation, reflecting the changing cultural and societal values of the time. In Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, Jesus is represented as a symbol of perseverance and fortitude, inspiring the protagonist to overcome his physical and emotional struggles. In Morrison’s Beloved, Jesus is portrayed as a figure of resistance and rebellion, challenging the oppressive forces of slavery and racism.

    Analysis of the Archetype of Jesus in Literature

    The archetype of Jesus in literature represents the ultimate embodiment of goodness, selflessness, and sacrifice. Its origins can be traced back to the Bible, but its evolution reflects the changing cultural and societal values of different historical periods. The archetype f Jesus in literature serves as a symbol of hope, redemption, and transformation, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and search for transcendence.

  • Resurrection Archetype Perfected by Jesus Christ

    Resurrection Archetype Perfected by Jesus Christ

    The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most significant event in the world.

    His resurrection was the Gift whereby God, The Father raised Jesus from the dead three days after His crucifixion.

    This article will investigate the idea of the resurrection of Jesus as an archetype, analyzing its meaning in analytical psychology and Christian theology.

    What Is An Archetype?

    As I delved into the works of Carl Jung, I was struck by his fascinating concept of archetypes. Ingrained in our evolutionary history, these universal symbols express the most profound human emotions and experiences.

    Archetypes are present in all cultures.

    Understanding archetypes has given me a new perspective on the collective unconscious and the ways we relate to each other as human beings. It’s truly remarkable how these ancient symbols continue to shape our lives and bring us together, even without or awareness.

    The archetype of resurrection is one of the most potent and pervasive archetypes.

    It is found in almost all cultures, spanning back to ancient times. For example, Egyptian mythology includes the story of Osiris, who was murdered by his brother and resurrected by his wife, Isis. Greek mythology consists of the story of Dionysus, who was resurrected after being torn apart by the Titans. The idea of resurrection is also found in Hinduism, with the level of Vishnu’s resurrection, and in Judaism, the story of the resurrection of Ezekiel’s dry bones.

    In Christian theology, the resurrection of Jesus is central to the Christian faith. The resurrection of Jesus is the most critical event in human history because it demonstrates God’s power over death and sin. Many scholars have also argued that the resurrection of Jesus is an archetype in its own right, reflecting the most profound human fears and aspirations.

    In contemporary psychology, the resurrection archetype has been explored extensively, particularly in trauma studies.

    Rising from the dead is a powerful symbol of overcoming adversity and the ability to start anew. The concept of personal resurrection can be seen in the recovery process of individuals who have experienced trauma or addiction as they rebuild their lives and find a new sense of purpose.
    The resurrection archetype can also be seen in everyday life, such as the changing seasons and the growth and rebirth of plants and animals. It is a reminder that life is cyclical and light comes from darkness.
    Whether seen as a spiritual or psychological concept, the resurrection archetype symbolizes hope, regeneration, and renewal. It reminds us that even amidst pain and suffering, there is the potential for growth and transformation. As we navigate life’s challenges, we can draw upon the strength of this archetype to find the courage to rise again.

    The archetype of resurrection has a powerful and enduring presence in human culture, encompassing a range of religious and spiritual beliefs, personal transformation and healing, and deep-seated human fears and aspirations. While some may believe that the resurrection of Jesus is a historical fact, others see it as a powerful archetypal expression of human experience. Regardless of one’s beliefs, the resurrection of Jesus continues to be a source of profound inspiration and meaning for many people worldwide.

    Pop culture

    Furthermore, the resurrection archetype has also found its way into pop culture. For instance, superhero movies often depict characters who undergo a resurrection, where they rise from the ashes to become stronger. This is not a coincidence. The resurrection archetype resonates with us deeply because it speaks to our human desire for transformation, growth, and overcoming adversity.

    In conclusion, the resurrection archetype is a powerful symbol that inspires us in various ways. Whether dealing with personal struggles or societal issues, the idea of rising from the ashes and starting anew can offer us hope and the motivation to keep going. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always the potential for transformation and renewal.

    It also reminds us that we can find a way to transcend our mortal limitations and find meaning in the face of suffering and death. Ultimately, the resurrection archetype speaks to the human capacity for transcendence and the belief that there is always more to life than meets the eye. It reminds us that there is a spiritual dimension to our existence and that even when we face seemingly insurmountable challenges, we can find a way to rise above them and discover new levels of meaning and purpose. So whether you are a believer or simply someone interested in exploring the depths of human experience, the resurrection archetype is a rich and rewarding topic worth exploring.

    Further Reading/Resources

    EXPLORING THE 12 STAGES OF THE HERO’S JOURNEY PART 11: THE RESURRECTION

  • The Power of the Word: Unveiling the Divine in Greek Logos

    Exploring the Deeper Meaning of the Word “Logos” in the Context of Christ
    embodies both the divine and human nature, bridging the gap between God and humanity. yhwh is god

    In Greek, the term “logos” holds significant meaning, particularly in its usage by Christ. Found in John 1:1, the verse states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This divine Word, identified as Jesus, embodies both the divine and human nature, bridging the gap between God and humanity.

    The Multifaceted Nature of the Word

    The term “Word” is employed in various contexts throughout Scripture. It encompasses the Scriptures themselves (Rom. 9:6; Heb. 4:12), Christ’s teachings (Luke 5:1), and the message of the Gospel (Acts 4:31). Understanding these different aspects deepens our comprehension of the Word’s significance.

    The Word as Inspired and Truth

    The Word of God is not only divinely inspired but also serves as a source of truth. As stated in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” Psalm 119:151 reinforces this notion, declaring that all God’s commandments are truth.

    The Word as Liberating and Faith-Inducing

    Jesus proclaimed, “If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). The Word has the power to set us free from bondage and bring about transformative faith. Romans 10:17 emphasizes the role of the Word in producing faith through hearing the message of Christ.

    Gods word saves the darkes and brings darkness to light
    The Word as Discerner and Creator

    Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit.”

    It possesses the ability to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Additionally, the creative power of God’s Word is highlighted in Genesis 1:3, where God spoke, and light came into existence.

    The Word and God’s Sovereign Authority

    The Word of God holds supreme authority over all things. Through His spoken command, God created the heavens and the earth (Psalm 33:6).

    Zechariah 12:1 acknowledges God’s role as the one who forms the spirit of man within him. His Word goes forth, accomplishing His will and causing various elements of nature to respond (Psalms 147:15, 18).

    The Word Of God Is Immensely Deep
    revealing His wisdom and love

    The Greek term “logos” carries immense depth and significance, particularly in relation to Christ. By understanding the multifaceted nature of the Word, we can grasp its divine inspiration, truthfulness, liberating power, ability to discern, and role in creation. Let us embrace the Word and allow it to guide our lives, bringing us closer to God and revealing His wisdom and love.


  • God Upholds All Things by the Word of His Power

    The Bible teaches that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe. He is the one who spoke everything into existence, and He is the one who keeps it all going. This is made clear in the book of Hebrews, where it says:

    He upholds the universe by the word of his power.

    (Hebrews 1:3)

    This means that God is not just a distant observer of the universe. He is actively involved in its creation and maintenance. We can see this in the natural world, where God’s power is evident in everything from the smallest flower to the largest galaxy.

    God’s power is also seen in His character. He is righteous and kind, and He always does what is right. He is also intimately involved in the lives of His creation. He knows everything about us, even the number of hairs on our heads.

    This means that we can trust God to take care of us. He is the one who upholds all things by the word of His power. We can rest assured that He is in control, and that He will never let us go.

    The Bible also teaches that the earth will continue to exist according to God’s plan.

    This means that no matter what happens in the world, we can be confident that God is still in control. He will ultimately bring judgment and destruction to the ungodly, but He will also bring salvation to those who trust in Him.

    So, if you are feeling lost or uncertain, remember that God upholds all things by the word of His power.

    He is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and He is always with you.

  • Stand Firm in the Armor of God

    In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes to the church in Ephesus about the importance of putting on the armor of God. He says that we are in a spiritual battle, and that we need to be prepared for the attacks of the enemy.

    The armor of God is a metaphor for the spiritual resources that we need to stand firm in the face of temptation, sin, and the devil. The different pieces of armor represent different aspects of our faith.

    The belt of Truth

    … represents the truth of God’s word. When we know and believe the truth, we are less likely to be deceived by the lies of the enemy.

    The breastplate of righteousness 

    … represents our right standing with God through Jesus Christ. When we are clothed in righteousness, we are protected from the attacks of the enemy.

    The shoes of peace 

    … represent the peace of God that guards our hearts and minds. When we have peace, we are better able to stand firm against the enemy.

    The shield of faith 

    … represents our faith in God. When we have faith, we are able to quench the fiery darts of the enemy.

    The helmet of salvation 

    … represents our salvation through Jesus Christ. When we are saved, we are protected from the power of the enemy.

    The sword of the Spirit 

    … represents the word of God. The word of God is our most powerful weapon against the enemy.

    When we put on the armor of God, we are prepared to stand firm in the face of any attack.

    Prayer

    Dear God,

    Thank you for your word and for the armor that you have given us. Help us to put on the armor of God every day, so that we can stand firm against the attacks of the enemy. We pray that you would give us wisdom and discernment to know how to use the armor of God effectively. We also pray that you would give us the strength to persevere in the battle, and that you would ultimately give us victory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Action Steps

    • Read Ephesians 6:10-20.
    • Take some time to reflect on the different pieces of armor of God.
    • Ask God to help you to put on the armor of God every day.
    • Pray for wisdom and discernment to know how to use the armor of God effectively.
    • Pray for strength to persevere in the battle.
    • Pray for victory over the enemy.

  • Fear The Lord Verses

    The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.
    Proverbs 1:7
    The fear of the Lord is the begin@ning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
    Proverbs 9:10 
    You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.
    Psalm 115:11 
    You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.
    Psalm 115:11 
    If you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
    Proverbs 2:3‭-‬6 
    In many ways it appears to me that fearing God is pretty much the same as Knowing God, true knowledge. Reading, Learning & meditating on Gods Scripture leads us into that true wisdom and fear.
    Scripture says that Jesus IS the Wisdom from God.
    1 Corinthians 1:30 says, And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.
    Fear the Lord & accept the stark contrast differentiating God & humans.
    He’s Almighty & we are powerless
    He is righteous & we are sinful
    He is immortal & we will die
    He is all knowing & we are human
    God is God, we are but creatures.
    Seeing Who He is with eyes that are & knowing what we are not by discernment is navigating towards wisdom.
    He is infinitely above us.
    We must comprehend our place in the grand scheme of things prior to adopting the freedom and privilege . That privilege is detailed in Psalm 8:3-6,
    ‘When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet.’
    God had chosen to elevate us a little lower than even the angels because of His Choice. 
    He could have made us not in His image, He could have made us like the animals, even lower than the animals and His decision would be just & righteous & perfect, but He didn’t He made us for Glory and Honor, in His image. 
    He didn’t have to, but he chose to put His image inside of us. We are the image of the Divine, we are blessed with creativity, imagination, high consciousness, real emotion, & spiritual capability – all of these attributes that we have, even though just an image, are miraculous and show Gods mighty power and works. Just the thought of Him, having such power and authority to be able to do what He does should cause our minds and hearts to tremble with fear. 
    God created us knowing we were going to fall, therefore God chose to die for us, to sacrifice The Son for us, He chose our redemption before He even created man, before the fall. He chose by His sovereign Will who will be His Sheep… This makes me fear Him because He is so Almighty & He can donwhatevee He pleased, no one can get in his way.  
    We humans are Gods most priceless, precious investment in all of creation & I don’t believe any of us can fathom how deeply He treasures His people.
    The fear of the lord recognizes the might of God, & it is only the beginning of wisdom, it is not the end of Wisdom. 
    Once we truly fear God and are able to see him, truly see him, then Wisdom shows us Gods Generosity, Mercy, Love, & Heart… not the generosity and love as man knows it, but the Heart of God almighty… fear of God leads us to Know God & His True Love.  
    John 14:9-14, Jesus says:
    ‘Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, “Show us the Father”? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me? The words I say to you I do not speak on My own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in Me, who is doing his work. Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.’
    Jesus is the very heart of God the Father. The fear of the Lord leads us to know Jesus, actually Know Him. 
    The fear of the Lord is the onslaught of perfect vision, but praise & Worship of God in His eternal glory are its end. 
    We discern the expanse of His Powerful love, we can precisely proclaim with honesty that we have encountered His eternal promises; and we are filled with Mercy due to His Grace. 
    We await eternal joy because we know Him by experiencev& most importantly, He knows us. 

  • God’s Predestination and Our Response

    As Reformed Christians, we believe that God is sovereign over all things.

    This includes our salvation. We believe that God has chosen us in Christ before the foundation of the world, and that this election is not based on anything we have done or will do.

    This doctrine of predestination can be difficult to understand, and it can lead to some difficult questions. For example, if God has already chosen us, then what is the point of trying to live a good life? If our salvation is already predetermined, then what is the point of our own efforts?

    The Reformed answer to these questions is that our salvation is a gift from God, and that we should respond to this gift with gratitude and obedience. We should live our lives in a way that honors God, and we should trust in His plan for our lives.

    We know that God’s plan is good, even when we don’t understand it. We know that He loves us, and that He wants what is best for us. So, even when we face difficult circumstances, we can trust in God and know that He is working all things together for our good.

    Our Response to Difficult Circumstances

    When we face difficult circumstances, we can either choose to trust in God or to turn away from Him. If we trust in God, we will rely on Him for strength and guidance. We will also be patient, knowing that God is working all things together for our good.

    If we turn away from God, we will be filled with fear, anxiety, and despair. We will also be tempted to blame God for our circumstances.

    The choice is ours from our limited perspective. We can either trust in God or we can turn away from Him. But I encourage you to choose to trust in God. He is good, He loves you, and He has a good plan for your life.

    Prayer

    Dear God,

    Thank you for your love and your grace. Thank you for choosing me before the foundation of the world. I trust in you, and I know that you have a good plan for my life. Help me to live my life in a way that honors you and help me to trust you even when I face difficult circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.

  • Contempt: A Destructive Force

    Contempt: A Destructive Force

    As an overthinker, I’ve come to realize judgment and contempt often get tangled up in a messy web of confusion.

    Contempt is like a souped-up version of criticism. It’s when we take our disapproval to a whole new level, adding a sprinkle of superiority and a dash of disdain towards the poor soul on the receiving end. It’s like our fallen nature’s way of rebelling against the divine order.

    When we let contempt rule our hearts, we basically kick God’s authority to the curb and place ourselves on a lofty pedestal. We start thinking we’re better than others, believing we’re superior in every way. And let me tell you, this kind of prideful thinking leads to one thing: a big dose of contempt for our fellow human beings.

    Contempt doesn’t just harm the person we direct it towards, but it also messes with our own ability to trust, communicate, and cooperate. It’s like a toxic cloud that ruins any chance of building healthy relationships.

    The difference between contempt and criticism.

    Criticism is when we express our disapproval or dissatisfaction with someone’s behavior, action, or idea. It’s like saying, “Hey, I don’t think this is the right way to go about things.”

    But contempt… takes it to a whole new level. Contempt is when we add that extra spice of superiority and disdain, throwing in some sneaky insults, mockery, and other mean-spirited antics.

    Contempt has been discussed and dissected by scholars and philosophers throughout history.

    In psychological terms, contempt is considered one of the four destructive behaviors that can predict the demise of a relationship, alongside criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling. It is characterized by a feeling of superiority, disdain, and a devaluation of the other person. When we hold contempt for someone, we perceive them as beneath us, unworthy of respect or consideration.

    But what fuels this contempt? It is often rooted in judgment and comparison.

    We create standards and expectations for others, and when they fail to meet them, we react with contempt. It can stem from our own insecurities, as we project our fears and self-doubt onto others. It can also arise from a feeling of injustice or a perceived threat to our own self-worth.

    It is crucial to recognize that contempt is a destructive force. It erodes trust, creates distance, and prevents meaningful connections from forming. It limits our ability to empathize and understand others’ perspectives, hindering personal and collective growth. It blinds us to the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their flaws or shortcomings.

    To combat contempt, we must cultivate empathy, compassion, and a willingness to see beyond our own biases. We can start by practicing active listening, seeking to truly understand others before passing judgment. We should also challenge our own assumptions and prejudices, recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles and deserving of grace.

    Contempt is a destructive emotion that reflects our flawed human nature.