Month: March 2024

  • Tactics For Spiritual Warfare

    Tactics For Spiritual Warfare

    A GUIDE FOR WHEN YOU’RE IN THE EYE OF A STORM

    3 Keys Scriptures

    “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

    –Ephesians 6:12

    “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.”

    –2 Corinthians 10:3-5

    “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world” 

    -1 Peter 5:8-9

     Spiritual Warfare is experienced as:

    • … the tensions, the conflicts, the ethical options, and the worldview choices which Believers must face
    • … the spiritual conflict between those who are saved and preserved by God, the heavenly (and demonic) kingdoms are where our battle is fought
    • … the fight for truth.

    WAGE WAR & Remain Standing…

    The enemy will attack back!!!

    Top 2 Instigators for stirring the fuses of Darkness:

    Keep God’s commandments  

    Hold Tight The Testimony of Jesus

    (‘fight for truth’).

    TO STAND IN THIS FIGHT – YOU MUST:

    Use the ARMOUR from God &

    learn how to use the Weapons He assigned.

    Spiritual Warfare can be Frightening, confusing and overwhelming.

    WHAT TO DO?

    #1 Don’t ignore what’s happening .

    Don’t second guess God. This is real, and it’s happening.

    As C. S. Lewis stated:

    “There is no neutral ground in the universe; every square inch, every split second is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan.”

    #2 Don’t Give in to Fear

    & Don’t Avoid Fear

    Nothing the Bible tells you about the Spirit is intended to make you scared, especially afraid of  the dark realm. FEAR ONLY GOD.

    Be sober-minded with vigilance, awareness, and tact. Wisdom dispels fear. Trust God, Really Trust God.

    #3 Pray, a lot!

    Pray …without ceasing…” -1 Thessalonians 5:17

    Pray… on all occasions…”  -Ephesians 6:18

    #4 Don’t dwell on evil

    “Whatever things are good…pure…of good report…think on these things.”  Philippians 4:8

    #5 Obsessively Study the Bible. 

    Jesus quoted Scripture in context when tempted by Satan.  Scripture was used out of context by Satan but Jesus knows the Father so, the Word is Known intimately.  Resource: Matthew 4.

    # 6 Seek God, Not Demons

    Don’t Ask or Lust after The unseen realm anymore Than God Has allowed for you to see.

    People  think it would be neat to see a deliverance because they want to see the demonic manifest.

    That’s a terrible reason, and reveals the condition of the heart… Wretched.

    Being fascinated by evil is to Love evil. What your heart longs toward is the focal point of your worship.

    #7 Keep the commandments of God 

    Trust His testimony. Here are the COMMANDMENTS :

    1. Love God With All of your being

    2. Love your fellow man, as Christ loved you… Including those who hate you.

     “Take the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the deceit of the devil… take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

    Ephesians 6:11-19

    #8 Fasten The belt of Truth   

    biblical accuracy; certainty, sincerity

    #9 Check the fit in the breastplate of righteousness   

    Moral uprightness, justice

    #10 Keep Sandals buckled  

    the gospel of peace, bringing harmony; wholeness and understanding into all places

    # 11 Practice Defensive Shielding 

    With the shield of faith – Faith of Jesus

    With Faith as your Shield you are able to quench all the fiery darts of the enemy    

    trust; loyalty; reliance

    #12 Check the position of your helmet 

    … The helmet of salvation gaurds your Mind…  deliverance; preservation

    #13 Learn to spar with the sword 

    … Of the Spirit. This is the word of God. 

    # 14 Pray in the Spirit  … Always….

    Godly prayer isn’t a moment you take for God… God lives in you, scheduling Him into your schedule is not something you would find acceptable with His Spirit in you …  

    Tip:

    Direct your thoughts and mind on God more than you think thoughts to yourself in your mind….

    … “with all kinds of prayers…” 

    MAN MADE RITUALIS & DOGMATIC COMPLIANCE BREEDS PRIDE.

    OUTWARD DISPLAYS OF PIETY BREED LUKE WARMNESS AND HARD HEARTS…

    IF YOU ARE ACTING IN ORDER TO BE SEEN AS “HOLY”, YOUR ACTIONS ARE NOT WORTH ANYTHING IN GOD’S DOMAIN…

    For strength and hope:

    “For we do continually beseech God by Jesus Christ to preserve us from the demons which are hostile to the worship of God, and whom we of old time served… For we call Him Helper and Redeemer, the power of whose name even the demons do fear…”

    – Justin Martyr (ca. 160 A.D.):

  • Gossips Are described To Be Just As Bad As The Sexually Immoral & Murderers

    Gossips Are described To Be Just As Bad As The Sexually Immoral & Murderers

    In the Epistle to the Romans, gossip emerges as a prominent theme with profound implications for the condition of our hearts and the quality of our relationships.

    Within the specific verses of Romans 1:28-32, Paul draws a clear connection between gossip, referred to as ‘back biters,’ and a range of serious sins such as sexual immorality and murder.

    And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness p, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

    This elucidates the severe moral and spiritual repercussions that gossip can have on individuals.

    Hardening Heart

    Expanding on the consequences of gossip, the act itself requires us to develop a hardened stance towards the individuals we gossip about, creating a clear division between ourselves and them.

    When we do this we divide ourselves and those around us from Gods Love.

    This results in labeling them as outsiders who are exempt from the principles of Christian charity.

    Therefore, we inadvertently create a gap or separation from the boundless love that God embodies.

    We must understand that this separation not only affects our connection with God but permeates our interactions with others as well.

    The hardening of our hearts towards individuals and groups not only multiplies negativity but also reinforces a sense of separation, subtly infiltrating our world.

    Ultimately, this leads us further away from experiencing the all-encompassing love that God offers us.

    We must recognize the crucial nature of the path we choose.

    Instead of participating in gossip, we must consciously opt for unity, empathy, and compassion.

    These qualities draw closer to the abundant love of God which will manifest outwardly in all aspects of our lives.

    Mindfully transcending the urge to gossip creates an environment where God’s love will flourish, enriching our lives and inspiring others for greatness rather than putting them into darkness.

    Embrace Matthew 18, which emphasizes resolution starting with addressing the offending party alone.

    This encourages open communication and personal accountability. Tell the offender how they sinned against you and offer them the opportunity to repent. Forgive them.

    Only if resolution fails would involvement from another person in the Faith be necessary.

    We need a consciousness shift to change our actions.

    Let’s strive to be mindful of the power our actions and words hold, and make choices that align with the teachings of Christ.

  • Are They Real? | Are They Wearing A Mask? SIGNS TO LOOK FOR

    Are They Real? | Are They Wearing A Mask? SIGNS TO LOOK FOR

    WHAT IS A MASK?

    The “mask” symbolizes the façade or illusion that people wear to conceal their genuine inner thoughts, feelings, or motives, presenting a distorted version of themselves to the external world.

    A mask hides the deeper essence of a person’s being.

    Wearing a mask is a way of protecting oneself from vulnerability or rejection in the short term, but in the long term nit leads to feelings of isolation, inauthenticity, and dissatisfaction with life.

    HERE ARE THE SIGNS:

    They’re always “ON”

    They always seem to be “on” or performing, even in casual or informal settings.

    They have a character, and they do not ever break character.

    They Hesitate To Share Intimate Thoughts

    People who wear masks are hesitant to share their true thoughts and feelings, especially when they are vulnerable or personal.

    They Never Say No (People Pleasing)

    People who wear a mask fear criticism and rejection, so they try to please others at the expense of their own identity.

    They Rarely Apologize

    They have a hard time admitting when they are wrong or making mistakes.

    They Worship What Others Think Of Them

    They seem overly concerned with their image or reputation, and may go to great lengths to maintain it.

    They’re Inconsistent And Unpredictable

    They exhibit inconsistent behavior or moods, and may seem like a different person in different situations.

    They Avoid Vulnerability

    They have difficulty forming close, intimate relationships, and may struggle to connect with others on a deeper level.

    They Get Defensive At Any Hint Of Criticism

    They may become defensive or argumentative when challenged or criticized, and may have a hard time accepting feedback or constructive criticism.

  • Is it Assumption?—Is it Discernment?

    Is it Assumption?—Is it Discernment?

    “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

    – 1 John 4:1

    Strive to discern the truth by carefully weighing facts against subjective viewpoints.

    Wisdom lies in recognizing what is objective and what stems from individual perceptions.

    Embrace this distinction for a clearer understanding of information and beliefs.

    Filtering through biases and seeking objective truth can lead to a deeper understanding of reality.

    Embracing critical thinking and being open to alternative viewpoints can help refine one’s perception and enable more informed decision-making.

    So, are you truly discerning the truth, or are you solely relying on your opinion?

    It’s a question worth pondering in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.

    “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”

    – Colossians 2:8
  • Coercive Power —CONTROL

    Coercive Power —CONTROL

    Coercive Control (Power)– an act or a pattern of acts of psychological assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim into conforming.

    Common Types of Coercive Power:

    DIRECT & INDIRECT

    DIRECT

    Straight forward

    Direct coercive power is the ‘in-your-face’ threats and direct ultimatums, leaving you feeling trapped and helpless. But you know what’s happening, there is little confusion.

    INDIRECT

    Manipulative- through the back door

    These types will NEVER say, “Do this or else!” No, they’re far sneakier.

    They instead will use subtle tactics to control and manipulate you.

    Corersion puts you into a hellish maze where every turn is a mind trap, and you can never find your way out.

    With indirect power, it’s about psychological warfare.

    Tactics

    Guilt-tripping

    Using guilt or shame to manipulate individuals into conforming to certain behaviors or beliefs.

    This can involve making individuals feel bad about themselves or their actions in order to control their behavior.

    Threats of Punishment

    Using threats of punishment or consequences to coerce individuals into compliance.

    This can involve threatening to ostracize, shun, or punish individuals who do not conform to certain expectations or norms.

    Emotional Manipulation

    Using emotional manipulation tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation of emotions, or playing on individuals’ fears and insecurities to control their behavior.

    Isolation

    Isolating individuals from their support networks or communities in order to control their behavior and limit their access to alternative perspectives or sources of support.

    Pressure Tactics

    Using peer pressure, social pressure, or manipulation to coerce individuals into conforming to certain behaviors or beliefs.

    This can involve creating a sense of urgency or fear of missing out in order to manipulate individuals into compliance.

    Control of Information

    Controlling access to information or limiting individuals’ exposure to alternative viewpoints in order to maintain control over their beliefs and behaviors.

    Church Members

    Often Play This Insidious Game

    Believe it or not, There are instances where some individuals or organizations claiming to be Christian use coercion in an attempt to control or manipulate others out of concern, usually false concern.

    Why?

    There are various reasons why some individuals or groups within the Christian community resort to coercion.

    This includes

    • a misguided belief that they are acting in the best interest of others.
    • a desire for power or control, a lack of understanding of the principles of consent and autonomy.
    • a misinterpretation of religious teachings.
      • But that’ll be another blog post.

    Never Forget Jesus’ Teaching

    “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you”

    – Luke 6:28

  • Fragments of a Shattered Soul – Poetry

    Fragments of a Shattered Soul – Poetry

    Caught between the pursuit of desires and obligations throughout life, I found myself traversing a delicate tightrope—struggling to maintain my sanity while striving for success.

    My intense focus on maintaining balance ultimately became my undoing, causing me to tumble into the depths of despair. Paradoxically, the cautiousness that was meant to secure my future became the root of my life’s unraveling.

    – Camille

    Poem:

    The depths of her shattered soul
    Lie fragments of a love untold.
    Rejected, they lay abandoned, cold,
    A tapestry of dreams that could not unfold.

    Each piece a memory, etched in pain,
    A heart’s longing, now in vain.
    Whispered promises, once so dear,
    Now a haunting echo, she cannot hear.

    Her tears, like rivers, silently flow,
    As she gathers the rejected, piece by piece, slow.
    No matter how hard she tries to mend,
    The fragments remain broken, unable to blend.

    She walks through life, a ghostly shade,
    Haunted by the love that could have been made.
    In her eyes, a flicker of hope remains,
    But deep inside, her heart forever stained.

    Rejected fragments of her, scattered wide,
    A mosaic of despair, she cannot hide.
    For in the wreckage of her shattered heart,
    She finds solace in the pieces torn apart.

    Cami
  • Cheap Begets Cheap

    Cheap Begets Cheap

    CHEAP TALK vs EXPENSIVE TALK

    Talk connects, conveys, and  persuades by verbal communication spreading ideas through dialogue.

    Cheap implies a lack of quality or value.

    Cheap talk is communication that is:

    1. costless to transmit and receive
    2. non-binding (i.e. does not limit strategic choices by either party)
    3. unverifiable (i.e. cannot be verified by a third party like a court)

    CHEAP TALK:

    Words that cost nothing to say—low risk, low effort, low consequence.

    It’s the fluff of communication:
    • vague promises (“I’ll get to it”)
    • empty platitudes (“Thoughts and prayers”)
    • opinions with no backbone.

    In Game Theory, it’s talk that doesn’t shift outcomes, so it’s easy to fake or dodge.

    Think of it as verbal small change, plentiful but not worth much.

    Expensive Talk

    Words with weight, backed by action, sacrifice, or vulnerability.

    It’s costly because it commits the speaker to…

    • think apologies with amends
    • bold predictions with accountability
    • truths that risk rejection.

    This is the gold standard of speech: rare, real, and resonant.

    Why Cheap Talk Works:

    It’s low-friction, perfect for casual interactions or dodging responsibility.

    It thrives where stakes are low or attention’s fleeting, like a politician’s soundbite or a coworker’s “Let’s circle back.”

    It’s not always bad, it can signal intent or keep things civil, but it collapses under pressure.

    Why Expensive Talk Cuts Deep:

    It’s a signal of sincerity because it’s hard to fake.

    When someone says, “I’ll quit if this fails,” and means it, you listen.

    It’s tied to outcomes, reputation, relationships, results.. so it demands follow-through.

    The cost makes it credible.

    Where Cheap Talk Dominates:

    Social media’s a petri dish… endless posts, likes, and rants that rarely translate to action.

    Think performative activism or trending hashtags that vanish by next week.

    It’s loud but hollow, amplified by algorithms that reward noise over substance.

    Where Expensive Talk Shines:

    Moments of crisis or conviction. Historical heavyweights like MLK or modern whistleblowers don’t just speak—they stake their lives on it.

    Expensive talk stands out in a sea of cheapness because it’s scarce and carries scars.

    Discerning The Telltale Signs:

    Cheap talk is slippery – vague, safe, or overly polished.

    Expensive talk feels raw – specific, risky, and often uncomfortable.

    Listen for what’s at stake

    A friend who says, “I’ll help,” then ghosts is cheap.

    The friends who shows up at 3 a.m. with no fanfare is expensive.

    Why It Matters:

    Cheap talk erodes trust over time; expensive talk builds it.
    In a world flooded with words, spotting the spenders from the bluffers is how you navigate noise.

    People’s verbal currency reveals their character, pay attention to what they’re willing to pay.

    Cheap vs. Expensive in Action:

    Cheap talk is a mask—easy to wear, easier to ditch.

    Expensive talk is a mirror—reflecting intent and forcing accountability.

    One’s a shortcut; the other’s a commitment.

    Similar Idioms:

    Actions speak louder than words.

    put your money where your mouth is

    don’t talk the talk if you don’t walk the walk

    Drafts and thoughts on next page 2.

    Pages: 1 2

  • Music – “Pneuma” Recommended Song (by Tool) For The Spiritual Minded

    Music – “Pneuma” Recommended Song (by Tool) For The Spiritual Minded

    If you are seeking music with substance, and seek something other than typical “Christian/Spiritual music” — I couldn’t recommend this band and song enough.

    Here’s the lyric video:

    What is Pneuma?

    Pneuma is Holy Spirit

    “Pneuma” in the Bible is closely related to the Holy Spirit, representing the unseen force of God’s spirit.

    In Greek, “pneuma” translates to “spirit,” “breath,” or “unseen force,” specifically referring to the Holy Spirit as the Third Person of the Trinity1. 

    The Holy Spirit is the active force (person) guiding us who believe.

    Pneuma impacts all our lives profoundly.

    Pneuma provides wisdom, guidance, power, and creativity.

    Lyrics :

    We are spirit bound to this flesh
    We go ’round, one foot nailed down
    But bound to reach out and beyond this flesh
    Become Pneuma

    [Chorus]
    We are will and wonder, bound to recall, remember
    We are born of one breath, one word
    We are all one spark, sun becoming
    [Verse 2]
    Child, wake up
    Child, release the light
    Wake up now, child
    Wake up
    Child, release the light
    Wake up now, child

    [Interlude]
    Spirit
    Spirit
    Spirit
    Spirit

    [Verse 3]
    Bound to this flesh
    This guise, this mask, this dream

    [Chorus]
    Wake up, remember
    We are born of one breath, one word
    We are all one spark, sun becoming

    [Outro]
    Pneuma
    Reach out and beyond
    Wake up, remember
    We are born of one breath, one word
    We are all one spark, eyes full of wonder

    Tool the band WEBSITE

  • Empath

    Empath

    empathic resonance
    empathic intuition
    Cognitive Empathy; Powerful Empathy
    Empathy
    When Empath Meets Narcissist

    An empath is someone who can understand and share the feelings of others, while also being aware of their own flaws and integrating them into their personality.

    By acknowledging their own darkness or shortcomings, they become stronger rather than weaker.

    This process allows them to connect with others on a deeper level and offer genuine support and understanding.

    It’s about embracing both light and dark aspects within oneself to truly empathize with others.

    Empathy is often seen as a sign of weakness, but in reality, it’s a powerful strength.

    When you can understand and share the feelings of others, you become better equipped to handle pain and support those around you.

    By being empathetic, you (inadvertantly) are a safe space for people to express their emotions without condescension.

    People feel heard and understood with Empaths because they ARE.

    This also fosters deeper connections and trust.

    Empathy isn’t about weakness; it’s about resilience, compassion, and building meaningful relationships based on understanding.

    Some empaths are able to quite literally Sense and Feel other’s emotions, pains, and sometimes thoughts/intentions.

    Learn More:

    Feeling Someone Else’s Pain From Far Away: How Empathy Transcends Distance

    Empaths are highly sensitive individuals who’ve the ability to pick up on the emotions, energies, and thoughts of those around them. While many people may believe that empaths are only able to sense emotional pain, recent research suggests that they can also feel physical pain.

    talkafeels.com

  • Esoteric Pathways The Alchemical Art of Transformation

    Esoteric Pathways The Alchemical Art of Transformation

    The journey of those walking across the burning bridge mirrors the sacred process of alchemy – a profound transformation guided by divine forces. Our earthly existence serves as a vessel for receiving God’s merciful grace or facing His justice.

    As we embrace this transformation, we embody His divine glory, whether through the gentle breeze of grace or the steady hand of justice, reflecting the essence of creation itself.

    Moments of discomfort act as catalysts for our spiritual evolution, guiding us towards consequences that are a reflection of our actions. Just as seeds planted in fertile soil yield a bountiful harvest, the repercussions of falsehood ultimately lead to a barren wasteland of emptiness.

    Those who deceive themselves find themselves ensnared in a web of lies, consumed by the fear of exposure, and sinking deeper into a void of regret and darkness.

    In this complex and intricate journey, we are reminded that every choice we make has a profound impact on our spiritual growth and ultimate destination.

    It is through the choices we make, the actions we take, and the truths we uphold that we shape our own spiritual destiny, either drawing closer to the light of truth or sinking further into the shadows of deceit.

    Imagine a black hole in the vast expanse of space, symbolizing the void created by sin and distance from the Divine.

    The shattered remnants of those who have strayed from God’s path are inexorably pulled into the abyss of sin and emptiness.

    Yet, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope – a path beckoning us back to the ancient ways of truth, righteousness, and grace.

    In the words of Jeremiah 6:16, the ancient paths signify a return to the foundations of God’s wisdom and love.

    By embracing His Word, obeying His laws, and following His ways, we discover a profound sense of peace and blessings beyond measure.

    Despite the allure of worldly distractions, walking in the ancient paths leads us to redemption and salvation.

    It is a journey of simple yet profound significance, offering a route to spiritual awakening through unwavering faith and a steadfast commitment to the Almighty.