Category: Wisdom + Discernment

  • Narcissism

    Narcissism

    Key traits of narcissism include:

    Grandiosity – They have an over-inflated sense of importance and entitlement. They overestimate their abilities and exaggerate their achievements.

    Attention-seeking – They crave admiration and validation from others and feel entitled to special treatment. They may fish for compliments.

    Arrogance – They often come across as arrogant, conceited or boastful. They believe they are superior to others.

    Lack of empathy – They are unable to understand or identify with other people’s feelings. They lack remorse or guilt for harmful behavior toward others.

    Exploitativeness – They take advantage of others for personal gain. They manipulate and exploit relationships without regard for others’ feelings.

    Envy – They resent others’ successes and may believe others envy their own supposed superior qualities.

    Sense of entitlement – They expect favorable treatment and automatic compliance with their expectations. They become angry or humiliated when these needs are not met.

    Narcissism exists on a spectrum.

    In its extreme form it is categorized as narcissistic personality disorder. Less severe narcissism is a common feature in society today.

    Being narcissistic entails consistently exhibiting self-centered and egotistical traits while simultaneously disregarding the emotions and needs of others.

    Such individuals strive to manipulate and exert control over those around them, solely for the purpose of satisfying their own desires.

    Ultimately, narcissism encapsulates an excessive preoccupation with oneself, paired with a profound lack of empathy towards others.

    To deepen the understanding

    Being narcissistic encompasses more than just having self-centered tendencies.

    It involves consistently displaying behaviors that prioritize one’s own needs and desires while completely disregarding the feelings and needs of others.

    These individuals have a strong inclination towards self-absorption and seek to manipulate and control those around them in order to serve their own interests.

    By doing so, they demonstrate a profound lack of empathy and an inability to genuinely connect with others on an emotional level.

    All Focus Is On The Self

    As such, being narcissistic is characterized by an excessive and unhealthy focus on oneself, often at the expense of others. It goes beyond mere self-interest, extending into the realm of self-obsession, where the needs and well-being of others are consistently ignored. This self-centeredness creates an environment of manipulation and control, where the narcissist seeks to exert power over those around them to ensure their own fulfillment.

    Narcissism Keywords & Definitions

    Narcissism: A personality trait characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

    Narcissistic: Referring to behaviors and actions displayed by individuals with narcissistic traits, such as self-centeredness, grandiosity, and a disregard for the feelings and needs of others.

    Narcissistic traits: Personality traits associated with narcissism, such as excessive self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

    Exaggerated perception: An inflated or magnified view of one’s abilities, accomplishments, or self-worth.

    Preferential treatment: The belief that one should receive special privileges or advantages over others.

    Insatiable desire: A constant, unquenchable craving or longing for something, in this case, attention and validation.

    Attention: The focus or regard given to an individual, often in the form of admiration or recognition.

    Validation: The confirmation or acknowledgment of one’s worth, abilities, or accomplishments by others

  • How Can We Forgive Those Who Hurt Us?

    How Can We Forgive Those Who Hurt Us?

    On Quora a person asked this:

    “A Christian meditation today said that I must forgive those who hurt me, because my sins against God are worse. Yet I repent, while the ones harming me don’t. They double down, gaslight, and tear me appart. How can I authentically forgive?”

    MY RESPONSE:

    ” ….WE MUST ASK OURSELVES
    How did Jesus manage to forgive us despite our betrayal, lies, and gossip?


    How did He forgive the people who tortured Him to the point where no man had ever been beaten as brutally, by the very people He had come to save?”

    Christ Carrying the Cross 1515-16 Hieronymous Bosch – The Complete Works

    “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you… -Matthew 5:43-44


    As Christian believers, it is imperative that we ponder these facts. God did not come down to give us an opportunity to be saved; His word never says that.
    He came down to save sinners in need of repentance.
    He came to save those who did not deserve it.


    “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.” -Isaiah 53:5


    He would not have needed to die if He was to save people that could make the decision on their own or be good on their own.
    If we really think about this, it puts things into perspective.

    God, who is perfect, came down to save a wretched, mean group of humans. He lowered himself to our position, lived a life in a body of flesh that dies, and suffered one of the most horrendous tortures ever enacted upon man.

    His bones were showing, his organs were bursting, and water was coming out of his spleen. He was unrecognizable; the skin was almost completely off of his body.

    Why did He do this?
    Not because we deserved it.
    No, no, no.
    He did it because He is merciful.


    The Bible says, “Be merciful, for I am merciful.” Luke 6:36


    And when we are Christians, we have the Holy Spirit, who imparts the attributes of God into us.
    So if you’re not merciful, you don’t have God in you, because God is mercy.


    Matthew 5:7: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”


    Our two requirements are plain and simple:

    First, we must love God with our entire being.
    Second, we must love our neighbor, regardless of who they are, just as we love ourselves.

    It is a truth that Jesus harbors no ill will towards anyone.
    Therefore, we too should endeavor to learn to forgive and forget.

    Let us reflect that Jesus, who was tormented with a pain that far surpassed mere slander, forgave his tormentors.

    We should feel fortunate that we have not been through such ordeals.
    We must consider the magnitude of Jesus’ capacity for forgiveness, despite our wrongdoings.

    As Christians, we have a responsibility to both love God with our entire being and to love our neighbor as we would love ourselves.
    Jesus never held any grudges, and we should strive to do the same and forgive those who wrong us.

    We can take comfort in the fact that Jesus, even after enduring incredible suffering, was able to forgive his persecutors.

    We should be thankful to not have experienced such hardships.

    Hieronymous Bosch The Complete Works
    Christ Mocked (Crowning with Thorns) 1495-1500

    James 2:13 says, “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”


    More Verses:


    Isaiah 53:5 – “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed.”
    Psalm 22:16-18 – “Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”
    Isaiah 7:14 – “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

    John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
    Philippians 2:7-8 – “But made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
    Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
    Mark 8:31 – “And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again.”

    1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness; by his wounds, you have been healed.”

    A beautiful song I want to share on the topic of MERCY:

  • How Luther Transformed Halloween and Ignited the Protestant Reformation

    How Luther Transformed Halloween and Ignited the Protestant Reformation

    All Hallows Eve, also known as Halloween, was originally a Christian observance preceding All Saints’ Day, serving as a way to remember the departed souls and honor the saints. However, the Catholic Church allegedly sought to eliminate the pagan and mystical elements associated with the celebration, as they conflicted with their religious doctrines.

    Consequently, Halloween became a means to bridge the gap between the sacred and the profane, providing an outlet for repressed beliefs.

    During this transformative period, the prominent figure of Martin Luther emerged. Luther famously challenged the authority of the Church and critiqued their manipulation of religious practices, including the transformation of All Hallows Eve. Some speculate that Luther’s efforts to reform the Catholic Church played a crucial role in shaping Halloween into the holiday we know today.

    According to certain interpretations, the Church’s suppression of Halloween was a strategic maneuver to maintain control over the masses.

    By diverting attention from the spiritual realm and redirecting it towards trivial festivities, the Church could solidify its dominion over religious interpretations and assert its superiority over alternative mystical traditions.

    Here are some more facts about Halloween:

    On Oct. 31, 1517, Martin Luther, a monk and university professor, released his “Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences,” also known as “The 95 Theses.” The document, intended to be used as a basis for discussion with church superiors, spoke against the selling of indulgences, a practice that allowed people to “buy” their salvation from local priests.

    On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther, a monk and university professor, fearlessly unleashed his “Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences,” also known as “The 95 Theses.” This groundbreaking document served as a catalyst for intellectual discourse with church authorities, boldly challenging the sale of indulgences. These indulgences, which allowed individuals to essentially buy their salvation, were a prevalent practice in the Roman Catholic Church, the dominant Christian institution in Western Europe at the time^1^.

    Driven by a personal encounter with the problematic nature of indulgences at All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Luther had previously admonished their abuse and the distortion of the concept of grace^1^. His belief was that indulgences should only be sought by those who had genuinely repented and confessed their sins. For a truly penitent sinner, the desire for inward spiritual transformation held more value than seeking external absolution through indulgences^1^.

    The Ninety-five Theses, composed by Luther in 1517, were a collection of propositions aimed at fostering academic debate. As a professor of moral theology at the University of Wittenberg in Germany, Luther courageously questioned the prevailing teachings of the Church concerning penance, indulgences, and even the authority of the pope^3^. The impact of Luther’s Theses was immediate and forceful, resulting in his excommunication from the Roman Church and the historic inception of the Protestant Reformation.

    Luther knew that with the following day being All Saints, the church would be full as people came to see the relics at the Castle Church amassed by Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony, who founded the University of Wittenberg. Luther’s calculated risk paid off and while there was a long lead-up to this moment, many see Oct. 31, 1517, as the beginning of the Reformation. 

    On the evening before All Saints’ Day in 1517, Martin Luther nailed his “Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences” to the doors of the Wittenberg churches.

    Luther knew that the church would be full the following day as people came to see the relics at the Castle Church amassed by Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony, who founded the University of Wittenberg.

    This calculated risk paid off, and many see Oct. 31, 1517, as the beginning of the Reformation1.

    Luther’s personal influence on powerful individuals, as well as the far-reaching effects of his theses, led to the eventual decline of the use of relics and the practice of indulgences. 6

    Martin Luther’s personal influence on influential individuals, as well as the widespread impact of his theses, ultimately led to the decline of the use of relics and the practice of indulgences.

    Luther argued that the sale of indulgences was not supported by biblical teachings, thereby challenging the authority of the Church and its assertion as God’s earthly representative.

    The medieval indulgence was a document offered by the Church in exchange for money, guaranteeing the forgiveness of sins. However, its misuse served as the catalyst for Martin Luther’s 95 Theses.

    Throughout these theses and in his subsequent attacks on indulgences, Luther made his stance clear. The 95 topics for debate were transformed into direct challenges to the Church’s authority, which, in its attempts to silence Luther, only further radicalized him and led to the Protestant Reformation.

    Luther’s personal encounter with the sale of indulgences profoundly impacted him, reinforcing his belief that a simple document signed by the Pope could not absolve the sins of the living. A particular issue that troubled Luther was the Catholic Church’s practice of selling indulgences to fund the construction of Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Luther vehemently preached against the abuse of indulgences, arguing that they devalued the concept of grace and allowed for superficial repentance.

    He asserted that receiving an indulgence should require genuine confession and repentance; otherwise, it held no value. Luther’s position on indulgences aligned with that of Pope Leo X, however, the Theses directly challenged a 14th-century papal decree stating that the pope could employ the treasury of merit and the good deeds of past saints to pardon temporal punishment for sins.

    Moreover, Luther had a negative experience with the indulgences associated with All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, where followers believed they could obtain an indulgence by venerating the extensive collection of relics.

    Luther’s influence continues to be felt, and he’s credited with various developments, including the rise of secular democracy.

    However, it was theology that primarily concerned him. Luther’s understanding of his beliefs developed after a prolonged internal conflict, during which he agonized and even despaired over his inability to align his will with performing good deeds.

    It was during his contemplation of The Letter of Paul to the Romans (1:17) that Luther experienced a transformative illumination, akin to a conversion. This momentous and deeply personal experience explains why Luther adamantly refused to recant his theological views throughout the indulgences controversy.

  • Salvation’s Trinitarian Mission By The Holy Trinity

    Salvation’s Trinitarian Mission By The Holy Trinity

    Each aspect of God has a purpose in all things, including Salvation.

    The doctrine of salvation underscores the unity, sovereignty, and active involvement of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in bringing about the redemption of mankind. Let us explore the Trinitarian nature of salvation and the distinct roles each person of the Trinity plays in this divine mission

    a wooden crucifix against the rock mountains
    Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Pexels.com

    PERSON: The Father

    SALVATION: Sovereign Election/Choice

    “But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.”

    – 2 Thessalonians 2:13

    Salvation’s essence resides in the Father’s unwavering choice and election of individuals. Long before the world’s inception, the Father, in His boundless grace, deliberately chose a people for Himself. This divine selection was not based on their merits, but solely rooted in His infinite mercy and divine decree. As the driving force behind salvation, the Father sets the stage for the magnificent unfolding of His redemptive plan.

    The Father, being the ultimate source and architect of salvation, assumes a paramount role in the Trinity of Salvation. It is He who, guided by His sovereign will and overflowing grace, elects and distinguishes individuals for redemption. The Father’s immeasurable love and grand design establish the unshakable groundwork for the majestic unveiling of salvation’s divine purpose.

    PERSON: The Son

    SALVATION: Perfect Redemption

    “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

    – Mark 10:45

    The Son, Jesus Christ, plays a crucial role in the accomplishment of salvation. He obediently fulfills the demands of the law, living a flawless life that sets the standard for humanity. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, He offers Himself as a perfect and substitutionary atonement for the sins of the chosen ones. Rising triumphantly from the grave, He conquers sin and secures eternal life for those who place their trust in Him.

    The Son, Jesus Christ, holds a central position in the Trinity of Salvation. He willingly takes on human form, becoming the perfect mediator between God and humanity. Through His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, Jesus achieves redemption for the chosen ones. His sacrificial death on the cross serves as the ultimate atonement for sin, providing forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

    PERSON: Holy Spirit

    SALVATION: Transformation

    “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”

    – Ezekiel 36:26-27

    Completing the Trinity of Salvation is the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is the one who applies the work of Christ to the hearts of individuals. Through the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit, the elect are given new life, enabling them to have faith in Jesus Christ and repent of their sins. The Spirit sanctifies believers, empowering them to grow in holiness and conform to the image of Christ.

    The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, plays a transformative role in salvation. He regenerates the hearts of the chosen ones, granting them new life and a disposition inclined towards God. Through His work, the Holy Spirit enables individuals to have unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, bestowing the remarkable gift of salvation. He continuously sanctifies believers, decisively conforming them to the image of Christ and empowering them to live a life abundantly pleasing to God.

    Together, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit work harmoniously in the Trinity of Salvation.

    “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

    – Matthew 28:19

    The Father initiates and chooses, the Son accomplishes redemption, and the Holy Spirit applies and empowers. Their unified work reveals the depth of God’s love, grace, and mercy towards humanity, showcasing the intricate and divine interplay within the Trinity itself.

  • Recognizing Ad Hominem Attacks

    Recognizing Ad Hominem Attacks

    Ad hominem is a logical fallacy where an argument is attacked by targeting the person making the argument instead of addressing the argument itself. It involves discrediting the individual rather than engaging with the substance of their argument.

    This fallacy diverts attention from the topic being discussed and focuses on personal attacks.

    Ad hominem attacks are considered illogical and hinder productive discourse.

    Ad Hominem attacks mastered by Con Artists and Bullies

    Ad Hominem attacks are commonly used by Con Artists and Bullies to avoid engaging with points in a debate or conversation.

    These attacks involve insulting a person’s looks, social status, gender, religion, or any other characteristic that can be used to offend and distract from the actual discussion.

    Using ad hominem attacks is a sign of low emotional intelligence and anti-social behavior.

    woman draw a light bulb in white board

    People who use these attacks often do so because they themselves have been made to feel small or dehumanized in the past

    Why it is important to understand and recognize

    Recognizing the tactics and understanding that the insults are generic reveals of the abuser’s own insecurities can help avoid personalizing the attacks.

    They might attack a person’s intelligence, character, or mental health in order to deflect from the topic at hand and make the victim feel the need to defend themselves.

    These attacks are designed to make the conversation about the person being attacked rather than the actual subject being discussed.

    medieval armor

    Ad hominem attacks are ineffective and harmful, resulting in the loss of face and time for everyone involved.

    How to recognize and respond to ad hominem attacks

    Learn to recognize the key terms and phrases used in ad hominem attacks, such as questioning intelligence or attacking character.

    Understand that these attacks are attempts to distract from the discussion and make you feel the need to defend yourself.

    Avoid personalizing the attacks by realizing that they are based on the abuser’s own beliefs and insecurities.

    Focus on the actual topic of the discussion and refuse to be drawn into personal attacks.

    Recognize that engaging with ad hominem attacks only gives the attacker more power and perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

    themed park rides

    Instead, stay calm and assert your points or politely disengage from the conversation if it becomes too toxic.

    The impact of ad hominem attacks on society

    Ad hominem attacks create a toxic and unproductive conversational environment.

    They undermine respectful and constructive dialogue by focusing on personal attacks rather than addressing the actual issues.

    These attacks perpetuate harmful stereotypes, discrimination, and division among different social, political, and religious groups.

    They discourage open-mindedness, empathy, and understanding, hindering progress and collaboration.

    By engaging in ad hominem attacks, individuals contribute to a culture of negativity, hostility, and conflict.

    multiethnic women arguing with each other

    Society would benefit from promoting healthy and respectful communication, where ideas and opinions are discussed based on their merits rather than personal attacks.

    The role of empathy and emotional intelligence in countering ad hominem attacks

    Developing empathy and emotional intelligence can help individuals resist the urge to engage in or be affected by ad hominem attacks.

    Empathy allows us to understand and consider others’ perspectives, fostering a more compassionate and tolerant attitude.

    Emotional intelligence helps us recognize and manage our own emotions, enabling us to respond in a calm and constructive manner.

    By promoting empathy and emotional intelligence, we can create a culture that values respectful dialogue and rejects personal attacks.

    Educational institutions, workplaces, and communities should prioritize the development of empathy and emotional intelligence to counteract the prevalence of ad hominem attacks.

    Dealing with Bullies and Con Artists:

    Bullies and Con Artists both try to deceive and trick others, causing harm socially and emotionally.

    It is important to recognize their tactics and refuse to let them manipulate or belittle you.

    By rejecting personal attacks and focusing on substantive arguments, we can foster respectful and productive discourse. Let’s create a society that values empathy, emotional intelligence, and constructive communication. Together, we can combat ad hominem attacks and promote understanding and collaboration.

  • Empathy: What Is It?

    Empathy: What Is It?

    Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings and experiences of another person.

    It goes beyond simple sympathy or compassion, as it involves a deep emotional connection and an active effort to comprehend the inner world of another individual.

    Empathy is a key component of emotional intelligence and is essential for building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community and understanding.

    Through empathy, one can transcend their own personal biases and perspectives, and truly step into the shoes of another, fostering genuine understanding and emotional resonance.

    Whats the difference between Empathy and Sympathy?

    While sympathy involves acknowledging and sharing the feelings of another person, it primarily operates from an external standpoint.

    In other words, one can sympathize with someone’s pain or suffering without fully immersing themselves in that experience.

    On the other hand, empathy goes deeper.

    It involves not only recognizing and understanding another’s emotions but also internalizing and experiencing them to some extent.

    Empathy requires a more profound emotional connection, requiring us to listen carefully, ask questions, and seek to understand the other person’s perspective.

    Key components of empathy:

    • Perspective-taking: The ability to imagine oneself in the other person’s situation and see things from their point of view.
    • Emotional understanding: The ability to recognize and understand the emotions that the other person is experiencing.
    • Communication skills: The ability to express understanding and empathy through active listening and effective communication.
    • Compassion: The desire to help the other person and alleviate their suffering.

    In Jungian terms:

    “Empathy facilitates the transcendence of personal biases and contributes to the integration of individual and collective unconscious patterns…”

    Negative Aspects Of Empathy

    As someone who could easily be called an “EMPATH” by definition, I can tell you its not all sprinkles and rainbows. Here are some negatives, Ive experienced personally:

    Empathy can cloud rational judgment.

    When we prioritize empathizing with others, we may neglect to critically analyze the situation at hand. This can lead to making decisions based solely on emotions, rather than considering the larger implications or alternative perspectives.

    In some cases, it may even lead to enabling unhealthy behaviors or prolonging problems that need swift resolution.

    Empathy can create a bias towards subjective experiences.

    By solely identifying with the feelings and experiences of a particular group or individual, we risk ignoring the broader context.

    We cannot ignore the fact that empathy is inherently biased towards those we can relate to on a personal or emotional level.

    Empathy can hinder personal growth and resilience.

    While it is important to acknowledge and understand the struggles of others, constantly absorbing the emotional burden of others can be draining and detrimental to our own well-being.

    It is crucial to find a balance between empathy and self-care, ensuring that we have the necessary mental and emotional fortitude to navigate the challenges of life.

    According to Pub Med Empathy is:

    1) an affective response to another person, which often, but not always, entails sharing that person’s emotional state,

    2) a cognitive capacity to take the perspective of the other person, and 3) some self-regulatory and monitoring mechanisms that modulate inner states (e.g., [16, 17, 27, 28]).

    According to Ickes [29], empathy is a complex form of psychological inference in which observation, memory, knowledge, and reasoning are combined to yield insights into the thoughts and feelings of others.

  • Evil Forces- Unconscious Mind

    Evil Forces- Unconscious Mind

    To be unconscious is to be lacking spiritual understanding & discernment, as if in a state of spiritual sleep.

    Pertaining to behavior or experience not controlled by the ego.The part of the mind, mental functioning, or personality not in the immediate field of awareness.

    McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms

    The Realm of Spirit, the dark canyons of human existence… Only the Spirit holds the wisdom to know & understand the things of the Spirit.

    “God has revealed the things of the spirit to us …
    … by his Spirit …
    The Spirit searches all things…
    even the deep things of God.

    who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way: no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”

    1 Corinthians 2:10-11

    The depths of the subconscious mind contain a sacred essence, intricately woven with our soul’s essence.

    It is within this realm that darkness resides, symbolizing the presence of Satan, the adversary, the one who confuses.

    Satan operates in the darkness, seeking to cause separation among all that is whole.

    “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”

    Isaiah 59:2

    Mind & Spirituality

    The depths of the unconscious mind are interconnected with our spiritual nature. The presence of both light and darkness are within the unconscious mind, symbolizing good and evil forces.

    Satan and Separation

    Satan is the adversary, representing darkness and seeking to create separation among individuals. This is in line with the traditional Christian belief that Satan is a malevolent spiritual entity opposed to God and goodness.

    Human Sinfulness

    Human sinfulness, is rooted in the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. All human beings are born with a sinful nature, leading to selfishness, rebellion, and separation from God.

    Broken Relationships

    The inherent sinfulness leads to fractured relationships with both God and other people. This brokenness is attributed to our sinful nature, causing a divide between humanity and the perfect and holy nature of God.

    Influence of Thoughts and Words

    The impact of sinful thoughts and words can distance individuals from a harmonious relationship with God and others. It emphasizes the power of words to build up or tear down and the role of thoughts in shaping behavior.

    Ego and Inner Child

    An “ego of a child” can control an individual who has not achieved integration. Unresolved childhood trauma and the consequences of such experiences on an individual’s psyche.

    God’s Presence and Guidance

    There is a recurring theme of God’s presence and support in times of pain and turmoil. Biblical verses are cited to underscore the importance of guarding one’s heart and recognizing the spiritual battle against unseen forces.

    Deceptive Nature of Satan

    References the deceptive nature of Satan, who can masquerade as an angel of light, luring individuals away from the path of righteousness.

    brunette woman in top with necklace

    In the Bible, it is stated that all human beings are sinful and none are truly good, not even one. The concept of “good” here refers to being holy.

    Integration Is Holy

    To be holy means: to be complete, whole, and integrated.

    Every person carries fragments of themselves hidden within the deep crevices of their minds, concealing their true selves in the shadows of their subconscious.

    The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through the disobedience of Adam and Eve, marking the fall of humanity from its original state of holiness and communion with God.

    As a result, all human beings are born with a sinful nature, inclined towards selfishness, rebellion, and separation from God.

    This inherent sinfulness manifests in various ways in our thoughts, words, and actions, leading to a broken relationship with both God and others.

    The inherent sinfulness within us permeates our thoughts, words, and actions, resulting in a fractured relationship with both God and our fellow human beings.

    This brokenness is a consequence of our sinful nature, which separates us from the perfect and holy nature of God.

    Our thoughts, often tainted by selfishness, pride, and impure desires, can lead us astray from God’s truth and wisdom. We may entertain thoughts of envy, greed, or lust, which ultimately distance us from a harmonious relationship with God and others.

    Our words, influenced by sin, can deceive, hurt, or manipulate others, causing division. Their power can build up or tear down, encourage or discourage, heal or wound.

    When one is not integrated, they are under the control of a child’s ego.

    This refers to being consumed by the ego of a child, seeking solace from the pain of rejection that was inflicted upon them. The experiences that lead to this bewildering state are twisted, unholy, and depraved. A child may be forced to enact actions such as hating, dividing, severing, and locking away certain aspects of their psyche, all in an attempt to soothe the one who should have provided comfort.

    Instead of guiding the child towards healthy functionality, they are left to navigate the turmoil caused by dissociation, resulting from the traumatic experiences imposed upon them by adults. These experiences hinder the child’s ability to understand basic concepts such as colors, numbers, and emotions. Being thrust into the center of adult dysfunction and being subjected to adult problems is a form of torture for a child, regardless of how it may compare to other difficult situations.

    The adult who should have loved and nurtured the child instead manipulates them to love the parent more, while simultaneously denying their memories, gaslighting them, and depriving them of the truth. The inner child is pushed deeper into the shadows, mirroring the same treatment the parent received in their own upbringing. This cycle perpetuates, resulting in an adult who doesn’t need to be as broken as they have become. It now becomes the individual’s responsibility to pick up the shattered pieces of themselves.

    God sees this pain and turmoil, and He is present to offer guidance and support. As the Bible says in Proverbs 4:23:

    “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

    This verse highlights the importance of being mindful of what we allow into our hearts and minds, as our thoughts and emotions deeply influence our actions and behaviors.

    Additionally, Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not merely against other human beings, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

    This passage suggests the existence of unseen spiritual forces at work in the world and emphasizes the need for vigilance in protecting ourselves from their influence.

    Satan possesses the ability to control the unconscious mind, as mentioned in various passages of the Bible. In 2 Corinthians 11:14, it is stated, “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” Satan can appear as something good or desirable, deceiving us in the process.

    The depth of the unconscious mind intertwines with our spiritual nature. It is important to guard our hearts and minds, being mindful of the influences we allow.

    The struggle we face extends beyond the physical realm, involving unseen spiritual forces. Satan has the ability to manipulate and deceive, appearing as something appealing to lead us astray.

  • GIFT OF DISCERNMENT

    Discernment Is A Precious Gift

    Discernment is a gift that enables us to distinguish between truth and falsehood, right and wrong, and what is appropriate and what is not. By centering our understanding of the world around the Gospel, we can achieve a deeper appreciation for the beauty of creation and a clearer sense of our place in it. Join the author on a path of enlightenment as they uncover hidden truths.

    Discernment is a GIFT that enables us to:
    Compare and Contrast Reality.
    Discernment allows us to See things as they truly ARE, beyond the veil of deception and constructs, devised by human imaginations.

    Distinguishing between:
    What is appropriate and what is not?
    What is True and what is False?
    Enabling us to differentiate between:
    What is right and what is only nearly right…
    Discernment is clear judgment, especially in complex matters.
    TO discern is to understand the objective truth in the frame of its own subtleties {NUANCES}

    Once the veil has been lifted, there is no turning back.
    Discernment is to be thorough…
    We move in on one side of the thought or idea and make our way out through the other side of that same thought.

    The spiritual gift of discernment is valuable and essential. It equips people with the ability to perceive and understand the spiritual realm, allowing them to differentiate between the influences of God, Satan, the world, and the flesh. This gift is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the church and safeguarding believers from deception and false teachings.

    The Greek word for the gift of discernment, Diakrisis, encompasses various meanings related to judgment, appraisal, and distinguishing. It emphasizes the capacity to evaluate and accurately assess people, statements, situations, and environments from a spiritual perspective. This gift is not limited to a mere gut feeling or intuition but is rooted in the guidance and revelation of the Holy Spirit.

    In the New Testament, the gift of discernment is mentioned in several passages. In 1 Corinthians 12:10, Paul lists it as one of the spiritual gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit. It is described as the ability to distinguish between different kinds of spirits. This implies the capacity to identify whether a spiritual influence or manifestation aligns with God’s truth and character or originates from a deceptive or malevolent source.

    Hebrews 5:14 expands on the gift of discernment, emphasizing its role in discerning good and evil. This gift enables believers to have a heightened sensitivity to recognize the moral and spiritual implications of various situations and actions. It allows them to navigate through ethical dilemmas and make choices that honor God and align with His purposes.

    Throughout history, individuals with the gift of discernment have played vital roles in the church. They have served as guardians, watchmen, and counselors, providing guidance and insight to fellow believers. Their ability to discern the motives, intentions, and spiritual forces at work has helped protect the body of Christ from falling into error and deception.

    The gift of discernment is not reserved for a select few but is distributed by the Holy Spirit according to His will. Believers must acknowledge and cultivate this gift in their lives, seeking wisdom, and spiritual maturity. Developing discernment involves cultivating a deep relationship with God, immersing oneself in His Word, and cultivating a sensitivity to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

    Practicing discernment requires humility, as it is not a means to elevate oneself above others but rather a tool to serve and protect the body of Christ. It is essential to approach discernment with love, compassion, and a desire for the spiritual well-being of others. The goal is not to condemn but to guide, correct, and restore individuals who may have strayed from the truth.

    The spiritual gift of discernment is a precious resource within, a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of the spiritual realm and uphold the truth. As we embrace and develop this gift, we contribute to the spiritual health and vitality of the collective conscious, becoming grounded in discernment, wisdom, and gaining a deep understanding of Eternity’s ways.

  • Spiritual Adultery

    Spiritual Adultery

    Adultery is but a shadow or an Exoteric archetype corresponding with Spiritual Infidelity…

    Spiritual adultery is putting anything above the Spirit.

    It is the violation of the sacred Unity between the individual and their Divinity in Heaven.

    It is a betrayal of love, betrayal of grace, and rejection of guidance that God has.

    Just as physical adultery usually damages the trust and intimacy between mates in a union, this isn’t the point, it is the example leading to the point.

    Spiritual adultery damages the intimacy and trust in the relationship between you and yourself, even worse it cuts you off from the God of your soul.

    You can no longer comprehend him as his voice no longer guides you as you have severed that aspect of yourself off.

    MATERIAL WORLD IS TRANSIENT

    Jesus told his followers that the physical world is transient but the spiritual realities He taught about are Eternal.

    ALLEGORICAL COMPREHENSION REVEALS PROFUNDITY

    Throughout scripture, physical phenomena are regularly used as allegories for profound spiritual truths.

    The prophets and apostles understood this well, as their writings are rich with metaphor and symbolism.

    Even acts as serious as adultery have deeper layers of significance, as both the prophets and Christ himself indicated.

    When God called Israel his wife through the prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah, he was illuminating profound mystical realities about humankind’s relationship with the divine. As James wrote, friendship with “the world” makes us enemies of God – and the “world” here refers not just to physical places and people, but the desires and allurements that captivate our hearts and minds.

    By understanding the earthly realities Jesus and the prophets spoke of as representatives of higher spiritual realities, we penetrate beneath surface meanings. We see how God was trying to warn Israel, and all humanity, about straying from intimate connection with our divine Source. Physical adultery reflects humanity’s natural tendency to replace love for God with love of lesser, temporary things that cannot satisfy our souls.

    Christ came to lift our eyes above earthly distractions, to the eternal spiritual verities of which our physical, temporary experiences are but pale foreshadowings. When we discern the fullness of meaning behind biblical passages, we find profound wisdom for nurturing an enduring marriage of spirit with God. May this deeper perspective guide us to cherish what truly endures, now revealed without a veil.

    RESOURCES

    ‡ Jeremiah 3:20- Surely, as a treacherous wife leaves her husband, so have you been treacherous to Me, O house of Israel, declares the LORD.’ ”

    ‡ Isaiah 1:21- How the faithful city has become a whore, she who was full of justice! Righteousness lodged in her, but now murderers.

    ‡ Isaiah 54:5- Your Maker is your husband, the LORD of hosts is His name; and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer, the God of the whole earth He is called.

    ‡ Isaiah 57:8- Behind the door and the doorpost you have set up your memorial; for, deserting Me, you have uncovered your bed, you have gone up to it, you have made it wide; and you have made a covenant for yourself with them, you have loved their bed, you have looked on nakedness.

    ‡ James 4:4,5- You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, “He yearns jealously over the spirit that He has made to dwell in us”?

    ‡ Revelation 17:5- And on her forehead was written a name of mystery: “Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.”

    ★ 1 John 2:15,16-

    Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.

    ‡ Colossians 3:2- Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.★

  • Divine Sovereignty

    Divine Sovereignty

    God’s Order in All Things

    Divine discernment: The ability to understand and perceive God’s will.

    God’s sovereignty: God’s complete authority and control over everything.

    Spiritual: Pertaining to the non-physical and transcendent aspects of existence.

    Time and space: Dimensions in which events occur and are measured

    Providence: God’s guidance and care over all creation.

    Wisdom: The ability to make sound judgments based on knowledge and understanding.

    Solace: Comfort or consolation in times of distress or sorrow.

    Finding Divine Discernment & Solace in His Guidance

    In the realm of divine discernment, we delve into the profound understanding of God’s sovereignty and the intricate balance between the physical and the spiritual.

    We explore the notion that God’s complete sovereignty extends to every aspect of His creation, from the tiniest details to the grandest cosmic events.

    This sovereignty not only encompasses the orderly progression of events but also the purposeful disruption of order to fulfill His ultimate plan.

    It is essential to recognize that God’s sovereignty transcends the boundaries of time and space.

    He has already ordained and purposed every action that takes place, as revealed through His prophetic word.

    By acknowledging His complete control, we align ourselves with the divine order established by God.

    Contrary to the notion that the physical world operates independently of the spiritual realm, we understand that all temporal and material aspects of existence are subject to God’s divine power.

    Nothing exists outside of His providential oversight. To deny this truth is to deny the very purpose of God’s account.

    God, as the epitome of order, orchestrates the intricate chain of events necessary to accomplish His divine plan.

    Even in the midst of apparent disorder, we can discern His guiding hand.

    He uses disruptions and challenges to bring everything into subjugation to Himself.

    In His wisdom, God employs disorder as a means to ultimately overcome death itself.

    burning candles at praying place in church

    Let us embrace the profound truth that God’s sovereignty extends to every facet of our lives.

    He holds the reins of creation, bringing order out of chaos and fulfilling His divine purpose.

    By recognizing His sovereignty, we align ourselves with His plan and find solace in the knowledge that every aspect of our existence is governed by His loving hand.

    Scripture

    1. Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
    2. Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
    3. Psalm 139:16 – “Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.”
    4. Isaiah 46:9-10 – “Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’”
    5. Proverbs 2:6 – “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
    6. Psalm 34:17-18 – “When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”