Self vs God

 

 

So much easier to worship self than to believe that  one should be worshiping an invisible all- mighty God.

 

Quote: Digital Anvil

Surprises? What's in Store?

 

 SURPRISES ?

  

Good events and bad occur all the time. Some things turn out better  after an unfortunate start. Some persons cannot get a break,while for others, nothing seems to go wrong. 

While things seem random at times, many consider chance to be the main factor, many others choose their opportunities with reason and science, knowing that what you believe shapes your life.

Of course, some even choose combinations or mash-ups of causal factors. However there is a smaller cohort of people who wonder what is in store for the follower of Christ? Belief systems are ways of  shaping,determining your present and future. Good and bad and everything between.

Life can throw all kinds of  events our way. But with God, what surprises can we expect along the way?

 

   A KEY BIBLE VERSE: Suddenly the Angel of Jehovah appeared to him as a flame of fire in a bush. (Exodus 3:2) 

God may choose to make himself known to us in unexpected ways. 

 God spoke to Moses from an unexpected source: a burning bush. When Moses saw it, he went to investigate. God may use unexpected sources when communicating to us too, whether people, thoughts or experiences. Be willing to investigate and be open to God’s surprises.

 A  KEY BIBLE VERSE: He complained to the Lord about it: “This is exactly what I thought you’d do, Lord, when I was there in my own country and you first told me to come here. That’s why I ran away to Tarshish. For I knew you were a gracious God, merciful, slow to get angry and full of kindness; I knew how easily you could cancel your plans for destroying these people.” (Jonah 4:2) 

We are delighted when others surprise us with their response to God. 

 Jonah revealed the reason for his reluctance to go to Nineveh (Jonah 1:3). He didn’t want the Ninevites forgiven; he wanted them destroyed. Jonah did not understand that the God of Israel was also the God of the whole world. Are you surprised when some unlikely person turns to God? Is it possible that your view is as narrow as Jonah’s? We must not forget that in reality, we do not deserve to be forgiven by God.

 A  KEY BIBLE VERSE: That is what is meant by the Scriptures which say that no mere man has ever seen, heard, or even imagined what wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord. But we know about these things because God has sent his Spirit to tell us, and his Spirit searches out and shows us all of God’s deepest secrets. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10) 

We cannot imagine all that God has in store for us in this life or eternity. 

 He will create a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17; Revelation 21:1), and we will live with him forever. Until then, his Holy Spirit comforts and guides us. Knowing the wonderful and eternal future that awaits us gives us hope and courage to press on in this life, to endure hardship, and to avoid giving in to temptation. This world is not all there is. There are many surprises ahead. The best is yet to come. 

 

Have You had something awesome happen? Won some cash or got together with a long- lost relative or friend or reached a normally unobtainable goal? Attained a new record while skipping in tandem? Post your good opportunity here on this website/blog.

  

 

SINGLENESS

 

 What does God say to those who do not marry?

  BIBLE READING: Matthew 19:1-12

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: Some are born without the ability to marry, and some are disabled by men, and some refuse to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone who can, accept my statement. (Matthew 19:12,)

 Marriage is not automatically better than singleness. 

 Although divorce was relatively easy in Old Testament times (Matthew 19:7), it is not what God originally intended. Couples should decide against divorce from the start and build their marriage on mutual commitment. 

There are many good reasons for not marrying; one is to have more time to work for God’s kingdom.

 Don’t assume that God wants everyone to marry.

 For many it may be better if they don’t. Be sure that you prayerfully seek God’s will before you plunge into the lifelong commitment of marriage. Some have physical limitations that prevent their marrying, while others choose not to marry because, in their particular situation, they can serve God better as single people. Jesus was not teaching us to avoid marriage because it is inconvenient or takes away our freedom. That would be selfishness. But singleness is some of the time a wise choice.

 BIBLE READING: 1 Corinthians 7:1-11

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: I’m not saying you must marry, but you certainly may if you wish. I wish everyone could get along without marrying, just as I do. But we are not all the same. God gives some the gift of a husband or wife, and others he gives the gift of being able to stay happily unmarried. (1 Corinthians 7:6-7) 

 Both marriage and singleness are gifts from God. 

 One is not morally better than the other, and both are valuable for accomplishing God’s purposes. It is important for us, therefore, to accept our present situation. When Paul said he wished that all people were like him (i.e., unmarried), he was expressing his desire that more people would devote themselves completely to the ministry without the added concerns of spouse and family, as he had done. He was not criticizing marriage—after all, it is God’s created way of providing companionship and populating the earth.

 BIBLE READING: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: The important thing to remember is that our remaining time is very short [and so are our opportunities for doing the Lord’s work]. For that reason those who have wives should stay as free as possible for the Lord; happiness or sadness or wealth should not keep anyone from doing God’s work. Those in frequent contact with the exciting things the world offers should make good use of their opportunities without stopping to enjoy them; for the world in its present form will soon be gone. (1 Corinthians 7:29-31) 

With Christ, it is possible to live a fulfilling single life. 

 Some single people feel tremendous pressure to be married. They think their life can be complete only with a spouse. But Paul underlines one advantage of being single—the potential of a greater focus on Christ and his work. If you are unmarried, use your special opportunity to serve Christ wholeheartedly.

 A good reason to remain single is to use the time and freedom to serve God.

 When Paul says the unmarried person does even better, he is talking about the potential time available for service to God. The single person does not have the responsibility of caring for a spouse and raising a family. Singleness, however, does not ensure service to God—involvement in service depends on the commitment of the individual.

(Thanks to the Handbook of Christian Living)

 

Biology vs Social Construct?

Woman: Biology vs Identity.

In the UK, the Supreme court has ruled that the definition  of a woman's identity is biological.  That is, a woman is a woman because  of her biology at birth and remains so. Every chromosome has either XX or XY. Every cell has that biological stamp.

Of course this has created a storm of words which many say is in a teacup.

What is your conclusion, please feel free to post your comments. 

more for you

Tap or click link for more. 

 

(Opinion about a Fact: Digital Anvil.)

What's Good ?

What is Good?

Our definition of good is different from God's

Tap or click link below for more.

Good?

 

The Word for Today.

(Courtesy of Vision.org.au)

Do You Believe?

Have a peep at the brief below? Tap or click the embedded link.

 

 

more in store 

 

 

The Word for Today.

Courtesy of Vision.org.au 

 Chemistry or Freedom to Act.

 

Crossroad of Love or Laws of Evolution?

 

After a lifespan of time, am I remiss to following my desires or do I follow Christ? Certainly hormones play a significant role in my life-journey.Any life-journey!

We stand or run with an emergent crisis, they cause us to love our spouse and our children augmented with multiple interactions, history and that ineffable state of being called Love. (Recognised the world over by women and men.)

However when contemplating my next move  I enter a crossroad. Do I follow, " not really knowing where I'm going?" Like the Biblical figure  Abraham travel and to arrive in the future promised land?

Or do I follow my gut as they say?

and end my journey within a matter of chemistry? What could you or I do?

Chase-- to some-- an elusive dream coated with the world's riches and goals or end my years  'in a tent as a person who stakes a claim' on the ethereal charm of the supernatural book of Ages-- the Bible! Some call the Manual of life. The book of truth.

 

Supra-natural guidance or evolutionary laws?

 

Which is it?

What do You think,feel or ruminate? Post your comments

 

 PAST

 

  Why is our past important?

 

 BIBLE READING: Genesis 49:1-28

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: Then Jacob called together all his sons and said, “Gather around me and I will tell you what is going to happen to you in the days to come.” (Genesis 49:1, )

  Our past influences our future.

 Jacob blessed each of his sons and then made a prediction about each one’s future. The way the men had lived played an important part in Jacob’s blessing and prophecy. Our past also affects our present and future. By sunrise tomorrow, our actions of today will have become part of the past. Yet they will already have begun to shape the future. What actions can you choose or avoid that will positively shape your future?

 BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 7:1-17

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: Samuel then took a stone and placed it between Mizpah and Jeshanah and named it Ebenezer (meaning, “the Stone of Help”), for he said, “The Lord has certainly helped us!” (1 Samuel 7:12,)

 Our past can be a reminder of God’s grace.

The Israelites had great difficulty with the Philistines, but God rescued them. In response, the people set up a stone as a memorial of God’s great help and deliverance. During tough times, we may need to remember the crucial turning points in our past to help us through the present. Memorials can help us remember God’s past victories and gain confidence and strength for the present.

 BIBLE READING: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: All these things happened to them as examples—as object lessons to us—to warn us against doing the same things; they were written down so that we could read about them and learn from them in these last days as the world nears its end. (1 Corinthians 10:11,)

 The past is full of helpful lessons for today.

 Today’s pressures make it easy to ignore or forget the lessons of the past. But Paul cautions us to remember the lessons the Israelites learned about God, so that we can avoid repeating their errors. The key to remembering is to study the Bible regularly so that these lessons remind us of how God wants us to live. We need not repeat their mistakes!

 

( courtesy of The Handbook of Bible Application )  

Blaise Pascal--Hero of the Faith

 

 BLAISE. PASCAL

  (1623–1662) 

 

 French mathematician and scientist. 

 

Christian apologist.

 

  Pascal was born at Clermont-Ferrond,  When Pascal was three, his mother died, leaving him and two sisters in the care of their father.

 In 1631 the family moved to Paris, where the elder Pascal could provide better cultural and educational opportunities for his children. Blaise Pascal was extraordinarily gifted, especially in mathematics.

 By the time Pascal was twelve, he had worked out the equivalent of many of Euclid’s geometrical theorems. Subsequently, he made original contributions to geometry and calculus. The elder Pascal, much interested in the science and arts of his day, had a wide circle of like-minded friends, intellectuals like himself.

 Blaise Pascal was often present when these eminent men gathered for conversation. In this way Pascal met René Descartes, the noted philosopher, who has been called the father of modern rationalism and whose ideas Pascal was soon to regard as enemies of the Christian faith.

 At nineteen Pascal invented the first workable calculating machine to help his father complete his burdensome daily reports as a tax collector. The machine was based on a system of rotating discs—the foundation of arithmetical machines until modern times. 

 In 1646 the entire Pascal family was converted to Jansenism, a reform movement in Roman Catholicism. But Blaise Pascal’s devotion to the Christian faith really began with a mystical vision in November 1654. He described the details of his experience on a piece of parchment, which he sewed into the lining of his coat and which was found there at his death.

 In 1657 Pascal published his Provincial Letters, a masterpiece of irony and satire written to support the Jansenists’ demand for a re-emphasis on Augustine’s doctrine of grace within the Catholic church. Around 1658 Pascal undertook to prepare an Apology for the Christian Religion. The work was never completed, for Pascal died at the age of thirty-nine.

 He left only a series of remarkable notes, first published in 1670, eight years after his death, as Pensées (Thoughts). The work is a classic of literature and apologetics. It puts the case for vital Christianity against the rationalism of Descartes and the skepticism of the French writer Montaigne.

 Pascal noted that man’s need for God is made evident by his misery apart from God, his constant need for diversion, and his resort to the world of the imagination. God can be known through an act of faith, itself given by God. Pascal held that the supporting evidence for the truth of Christianity is overwhelming: fulfilled prophecies, miracles, the witness of history, the self-authentication of Scripture.

 In spite of the strong external evidences, God is known by the heart. “The heart has its reasons which the reason does not know,” wrote Pascal.

 

 

 ABANDONING GOD 

 

 How can people, once they are aware of God, even consider abandoning him?

 

  BIBLE READING: 2 Chronicles 12:1-16

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: Just when Rehoboam was at the height of his popularity and power, he abandoned the Lord, and the people followed him in this sin. (2 Chronicles 12:1,tlb)

 Reasons why we abandon God.

 At the height of his popularity and power, the king abandoned the Lord. What happened? Often it is more difficult to be a believer in good times than in bad. Tough times push us toward God; but easy times can make us feel self-sufficient and self-satisfied. When everything is going right, guard your faith.

 Personal consequences when we abandon God.

 Popularity and power, the two benefits that Rehoboam chose above God, were the first two things he lost when the Egyptians invaded the land. Through Rehoboam we discover the real price to be paid for rejecting God. Even though Rehoboam later confessed his sin, the damage had already been done. He was not destroyed, but much of what was precious to him was lost. His reign could have been as glorious as the golden shields in Solomon’s temple, which the Egyptians took. Instead, he had to settle for bronze replacements and an insignificant reign.

 Consequences for others when we abandon God.

  We don’t have to be a king, like Rehoboam, before our actions deeply affect the lives of others. Rehoboam’s abandonment of God led to the humiliation of his people. How does the quality of your relationship with God affect those around you? 

FEELING ABANDONED BY GOD 

 What about when our awareness of God is weak or he seems distant and removed? 

 BIBLE READING: Exodus 2:11-22 

KEY BIBLE VERSE: They had a baby named Gershom (meaning “foreigner”), for he said, “I am a stranger in a foreign land.” (Exodus 2:22, tlb)

 We should not give up. 

 To escape punishment for killing an Egyptian, Moses ran away to the land of Midian. He became a stranger in a foreign land, separated from his home and family. Many years went by before Moses was once again ready to serve God. But he trusted God instead of fearing the king (Hebrews 11:27). We often feel abandoned or isolated because of things we have done. But when we are fearful or feeling separated, we should not give up. Moses didn’t. He trusted God to deliver him in spite of his dark past and his seemingly bleak future.

 BIBLE READING: Job 2:1-13

 KEY BIBLE VERSE: So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and struck Job with a terrible case of boils from head to foot. (Job 2:7, tlb) 

Suffering does not mean God has abandoned you. 

 At times believers may actually suffer more than unbelievers because those who follow God sometimes become Satan’s special targets. Believers, therefore, may have to endure hardship, persecution, or testing. This was the case with Job. We must be prepared for Satan’s attacks. When we suffer, we must not conclude that God has abandoned us. He did not abandon Job. Consistent faith is the way to defeat Satan. 

The Influencer & Philosopher--John Locke

 

JOHN LOCKE.

 (1632–1704) 

 

 Most influential British philosopher of the Enlightenment 

 

Locke was a devout Christian with Puritan leanings. 

   His education, completed at Oxford, included biblical languages as well as science, medicine, and philosophy. His writings ranged from ethics, politics, and education to epistemology and theology.

  He is best known for his Essay Concerning Human Understanding (1690), which presents a systematic exposition of the empiricism that has shaped British philosophy ever since. The essay applies to both our shared universal awareness of the world and the main concepts of Newtonian science—the thesis that all knowledge is derived from the simple ideas that make up our sensory and reflective experience. The 5 senses and considered reflection.

  Even the concept of God arises from these simple ideas, combined with the recognition of God’s infinity.

   Locke’s political ideas helped shape Western democratic ideals. 

 

  Our moral beliefs are learned from experiencing the pleasures and pains God has established as a moral guide.His essay on Two Treatises on Civil Government (1689) argue for God-given rights to life, liberty, and property, as laws of nature. Government exists by the consent of the governed to protect those rights, so that significant moral limitations are placed on political power as well as on war and other government activities. 

  The right to property stems ultimately from the fact that God gave the resources of his creation to all people to share. The individual’s right is limited, then, to what he can appropriate by his work and what is needful in sustaining a human quality of life. He must leave sufficient resources for the needs of others.

  The self-centredness of an unbridled capitalism has no place in Locke’s thinking, for human beings are to be responsible stewards in God’s creation

.

 Locke also wrote An Essay on Religious Toleration (1667), a progressive document at the time, in which he advocated freedom of religious belief and practice—provided only that that freedom does not endanger the community.
Locke’s most extended religious work was The Reasonableness of Christianity (1695), which argues that while the Christian revelation adds to what we can discover by reason alone, it does not contradict reason.
Locke tried to diminish the theological schisms in the church by returning attention to the inspired Scriptures. 

In the Scriptures he found that being a Christian involves two essentials: one must accept Jesus as God’s Messiah and so be justified by faith and one must live in accordance with Christ’s teaching.

The Paris Olympian---Eric Liddell

 

 

ERIC. HENRY. LIDDELL, 

 (1902–1945)

  Scottish athlete and missionary 

 Born in China of missionary parents, Liddell went to school in England and later graduated in science from Edinburgh University. He excelled in sports, representing Scotland on the international rugby field. At the 1924 Paris Olympics, having disqualified himself from the one hundred meters because Christian conviction would not permit him to run a preliminary heat on Sunday, he won the gold medal and achieved a world record in the four hundred meters. 

 Before that race a note slipped into his hand reminded him of 1 Samuel 2:30: “Them that honour me I will honour.”

 Liddell became a prominent member of student teams pledged to actively evangelize central Scotland. His participation undoubtedly brought thousands within sound of the gospel for the first time. In 1925, to the dismay of the athletic world, he returned to China under the London Missionary Society to teach at the Anglo-Chinese Christian College, Tientsin. 

 Both there and in a Japanese internment camp from 1942, the humility and the serene testimony of “Scotland’s greatest athlete,” not least in the trying days before his death from a brain tumor, greatly encouraged his fellow-workers and gave him a unique outreach to all who heard him.

The Silk Road to War? ( Reworked)

The Cold War 2.0:

 

This global war is not being fought with tanks and bullets but with tariffs, trade surplus and deficit, tied investments and economic development.

 

While cash- rich  China primarily proceeds with ' friendly'  Belt and Road initiatives culminating  in contracts of foreign aid in Africa, Asia and South America and elsewhere. The USA struggled under former President Biden  and his puppeteers.

This Cold War 2.0 actually commenced with Chairman Mao in the Cultural Revolution in China approximately 5 decades ago where the now not so inscrutable Chinese deception occurred with the  Western nations being greedily drawn in. Effectively 'plundering economic resources, intellectual  property and rising  like a hot-air  balloon by inviting the Duped West into its puppet strings of cheap, smart labour, vast consumer market, nascent corporations and hungrier entrepreneurs and investors. 

This economic war and ideological  combat continues with no signs of abating. Many experts foretell that within 20 years, the Yuan could become the reserve currency of the world. Some predict sooner.

 

However.

 

President Trump is trying to change that state of play.

By shooting up a flare ( tariffs ) we take a snapshot of the battleground and see who our enemies and allies are. Who and Where they stand.

Although our friends had tariffs slapped on them, ,our foes were not spared. 

We find who will make a deal instead of paying a 10% tariff on their imports. Here President Trump is playing: "let's make a deal."

Remember he had experience being a celebrity. But his experience at developing means he plays a good golf game. So now  he has a better team, a  political mandate and prayer-partners. 

The rest of the globe will shuffle into good guys and bad guys. No neutral  places except  Switzerland.

 Realistically re- aligning into a new map of like- minded lands to be revealed in stark relief for scores of friends and many unhappy, enemy combatants. There are only two ideologies on promotion here.

Communism or Free Market Democracy. Not outright Stalinist nor outright posse faire.

Which will they choose?

( Opinion by Digital Anvil)

Please I invite you to post your comments and feedback here.

Set in Stone.

Trump’s and his Administration, whatever you may think of Trump is solid. It is set in a block of stone. Whether against or for.  Very little will change you or move you away from either pole.

 

( Opinion Digital Anvil)

From Bandaids to Wholeness.

 A Bandaid to Bandages to Healing the Whole Person

 

 physical > emotional > relational > psychological> spiritual.

 

System-wide, Healing inside.

 

 We present Christ to you, we don't present Pop Psychology, even though that is helpful.  We don't declare self- help books to you even though some are valid. We proclaim Jesus the Son of the living God. Not  just putting salve on a burn with a bit of, "she'll be right, mate." Even though that is a positive affirmation. 

 We don't indulge in bandaids, we preach Jesus Christ  the healer of the whole person. Woman and man, boy and girl. Young-- middle- old. The complete person made whole.

 Jesus, through whom all things were created is the central figure of the whole Bible. He is the focus of its being. Though a historical figure,he is timeless and tirelessly working even now.

 From Genesis to Revelation ,God's footprints and fingerprints are found in the Book of Ages-Bible.

Our DNA is written in the language of our Creator God.  Each command spoke life into existence, the very cosmos we dwell in.

 In the follower, his  Holy Spirit continues to act  beneficially upon the person  in whom he lives.

In the unbelieving masses, their spirit lies dead awaiting that moment of given truth whereby, their individual spirits are re-generate by the grace and mercy of the loving and living Ancient of Days.

 Through Christ  we declare and proclaim the total geo- social restoration of humankind.* The act of the Cross in which the Son of God though crucified,was delivered from the tomb and was resurrected under the power of God the Father.

May you and I believe that surely as the Son rose to Heaven  then we who believe shall likewise be in his heaven.Amen!.

(*Evidential of the Message of the Cross.)

The Romantic Rationalist - C S Lewis

 

 C. S. Lewis. The Romantic Rationalist

  (1898–1963) 

 Arguably the greatest Christian writer, theologian and apologist of the 20th Century.

  Christian writer and scholar 

 C. S. Lewis spent most of his life as tutor and lecturer at Oxford and Cambridge Universities and as writer of many scholarly and Christian books.  Lewis is best known as the author of more than twenty-five Christian works. He had been a “happy atheist” at fourteen and over a long period was persuaded that the Christian religion is the only logical way by which to understand humans and the universe.

Becoming imaginative and innovative. 

 Becoming a Christian at about thirty, he shortly afterwards wrote an autobiographical novel called The Pilgrim’s Regress (1933). Later he told of his birth and upbringing in Surprised by Joy (1955). Millions of copies of his books were sold during his lifetime and an increasingly massive number have followed since his death. One person, asked which of Lewis’s books he thought best, said, “The one I am now reading.” For a long time his Screwtape Letters (1942), being letters from a major devil to a lesser one in charge of a young man’s soul, was Lewis’s most popular work.

Logical Christian

 Another widely-read work is Mere Christianity (1952), a simple but profound defence and rationale of the Christian position. Some scholars declare his best book. Loved by young and old alike.

 

 He also wrote Miracles (1947), The Problem of Pain (1940),  and many others. His Abolition of Man (1943) was admitted by the Britannica Encyclopedia to the Great Books of the World.

The man who writes for children and adults

 Lewis’s fiction is also vastly read, especially the Chronicles of Narnia (1950–1956), seven books for children illustrated by Pauline Baynes—a set of stories guaranteed to delight children from five years onward. They tell of adventures that ensue upon passing through a magical wardrobe and other similar entrances into entrancing lands watched over by a magnificent lion called Aslan, actually the symbol of Christ. While these books have been instrumental in the saving of many people, they are not sermons but exciting adventure stories. A few of these works have been  featured as  highly acclaimed movies.  Suitable for grown ups too.

Non-conventional Sci-Fi 

The Space Trilogy, consisting of Out of the Silent Planet (1938), Perelandra (1943), and That Hideous Strength (1945), take the reader, in the first two volumes, to Mars and then Venus, while the third is mainly anti-utopian with events occurring in England. Perelandra recounts the adventures of a good and a bad man who in an Edenic world try to persuade an “Eve” to their respective viewpoints. But in this story Eve does not fall. 

Travels to Hell and beyond

The Great Divorce (1946) involves a dream visit of a busload of people going from hell to heaven and there being warmly invited in but refusing the glory they can see over the mountains ahead. Their trouble is that they cannot give up, even after the punishments of hell itself, their claim to self over God

The Romantic Rationalist

. The great interest in Lewis has resulted in many books, many  dissertations, movies, documentaries and many societies devoted to his writings.

  His works have been reprinted many times over. He can be found on  social media. web and even in apps. His most recent space is in the Bible.ai website and app, among others, as an  interactive theologian with his  warm voice, measured tone and profound intellect. The Bible.ai app is available on the App Store with the corresponding Android app being available in the near future.

I wholeheartedly commend his books to you. If you already a fan and have a favourite book, why not post your choice and why on this website/ blog?

From Socrates to God

 

From Socrates (thinking about) to God (trusting in)

 

Socrates once stated, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” We would add, “An unexamined faith is not worth trusting.” Faith means trust or reliance on someone or something. 

An expanded definition might be that faith is confident trust in what you have good reason to believe. Faith is trust that changes you. And we all exercise faith. Even the act of thinking requires faith that our reason is reliable and our thoughts actually correspond to reality outside of ourselves.

 

(I adapted  this piece of wisdom.)

The Baha'i Faith: A Brief Summary.

Introduction:

 When i was a youth, i met a concerned mother who was sadden by the fact that her daughter had entered the Baha'i Faith. Although i listened sympathetically to her,  I didn't comprehend the full story. Here is a brief summary that i could find currently about the Baha'i Faith.

 

Definition 

 Bahai people consist of those who accept the message of the Baha’u’llah. The Baha’i Faith was founded in Iran in the mid-nineteenth century by Mirza Hoseyn ‘Ali Nuri, who is known as Bahá’u’lláh (Arabic: “Glory of God”).  

Factfile —Date of origin: 1844 

Founder: Baha’u’llah. —Holy book: Writings of Bab, Baha’u’lláh, and ‘Abd ol-Baha —Number of adherents: More than 8 million.

Summary 

 The Baha’i Faith, the youngest of the world’s independent religions, is an offshoot of Shi‘ite Islam. The central theme of Bahá’u’lláh’s message is that humanity is one single race which should be united in one global society. The one God progressively reveals himself to humanity. Following in the footsteps of other great religious leaders, such as Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Zoroaster, Jesus, Muhammad,

 Bahá’u’lláh 

 is God’s most recent messenger. His teachings supply the moral and spiritual stimulus our modern world needs. 

Summary of Practices 

 The Baha’i Faith has no initiation ceremonies, no sacraments, and no clergy. But the faith is open to all who express the wish to follow the Baha’i Faith.

 

Summary of Beliefs 

 The Baha’i Faith embraces three basic principles: (i) The oneness of God. (ii) The oneness of religion. (iii) The oneness of humankind. God, Baha’u’llah said, has set in motion historical forces that are breaking down traditional barriers of race, class, creed, and nation and that will, in time, give birth to a universal civilization. Baha’i communities work to break down barriers of prejudice. They are convinced that humanity is a single people with a common destiny. 

The Appeal of the Baha’i Faith

  It has been claimed that no other worldview is better suited to the tenor of our time. Leo Tolstoy described the Baha’i Faith as “the highest and purest form of religious teaching.” Arnold Toynbee predicted that it will be “the world religion of the future.” J. K. Van Baalen has stated that the Baha’i Faith “is the unifying cult par excellence.”

 

Comparison with Christianity 

  Basic Baha'i beliefs are diametrically opposed to biblical Christianity.

 The Baha'i faith rejects: —the Trinity —the deity of Christ —the virgin birth of Jesus —the bodily resurrection of Christ —Jesus’ death on the cross as an atonement for our sins —salvation by faith in Jesus alone —the final authority of the Bible —the second coming of Christ.

 In the Baha'i faith Jesus is only one of the prophets. There is very little indeed that a true Christian can have in common with the faith of Baha'i. There is simply no common ground on which to meet… 

The Baha’i faith is at its very core anti-Christian theology. Dr. Walter Martin, The Kingdom of the Cults

Desires Untamed

 

 

Unstoppable Desires

  WHEN a man desires a thing too much, he  becomes ill at ease. 

A proud and craving man never rests, whereas he who is poor and humble of heart lives in a world of peace. An unbeliever is quickly tempted and overcome in small, petty evils; his spirit is weak. In a strong measure inclined to sensual things; he can hardly ignore earthly desires. Hence it makes him sad to give them up; he is quick to anger if exposed. Yet if he satisfies his desires, remorse of conscience overwhelms him because he followed his passions and they did not lead to the peace he sought.  

True peace of heart, then, is found in resisting passions, not in satisfying them. There is no peace in the ordinary man, in the man given to 'thirsty' attractions, but there is peace in the devoted and spiritual man. 

From the old volume-The Imitation of Christ.

Substack!

Of interest, maybe to you?

 

After installing the Substack App on my mobile, i discovered this article about the right thought for the sufferer..

 

 From writer of The Stoic Manual

 

 

 

Link of Interest 

 

Tap or Click link above for article

Hamas Downsizing ?

 Hamas Re- calculating their Figures

 

 

Startling news in  Jerusalem Post  that Hamas, the terrorist  group, has admitted that their estimates of Gazan civilian deaths  was 'accidentally' overinflated by some 70%. This, in fact, is something which many were already well aware of these overinflated figures of civilian deaths and as well as casualties. 

As many know, "Truth is the first casualty in a war."

Startling news indeed. 

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10 Unexpected Love Matches.

Unusual Love Stories

 

Courtesy of the GOOD app. I want to share these unusual love stories which occurred unexpectedly to the lovers! The GOOD app is a Free streaming service similar to Netflix,

 Read for Fun and Pleasure

Click or Tap the link above for the brief love bio's.

At Play, Everyday?

The Importance of Playfulness in Everyday Life for Adults

In our fast-paced and often demanding adult lives, we can easily forget the value of playfulness or  being light-hearted.

 

 It's essential to recognise how rekindling our playful spirits can enhance our overall well-being and improve our interactions with others.i believe and argue that embracing a playful attitude can lead to better mental health, foster creativity, strengthen relationships, and boost productivity. 

By integrating playfulness into our everyday lives, we adults can experience a range of vital benefits.

Playfulness in children and adults is linked to improved emotional, psychological and social well-being.. In a world where stress and anxiety are prevalent.Playful activities can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety by diverting individuals from their worries and fostering a sense of fun.

Moreover, embracing playfulness can spark creativity, which is crucial  both personally and professionally.

Playful and less structured environments encourage people to think outside the box and explore new ideas without the fear of judgement. This  highlights that playful settings  tend to greater levels of creativity, allowing individuals to generate good solutions to problems.

 By allowing ourselves to play, we open the door to creative expression and experimentation, leading to greater satisfaction and achievement in various aspects of our lives.

In addition to fostering creativity, playfulness also enhances  relationships. Engaging in playful activities with friends, family  or colleagues creates bonds and strengthens connections. 

The shared experiences of laughter and fun promote a sense of belonging and understanding between individuals. Furthermore, playfulness can alleviate tension in stressful situations, enabling adults to navigate conflicts more amicably. Whether it's a game  with friends or playful teasing with a partner, bringing playfulness into relationships can enhance their quality and resilience.

It is important to note that playfulness can also serve to boost productivity. While it may seem counterintuitive, incorporating playful elements into work can lead to increased motivation and efficiency.Thus taking breaks for  more relaxed activities can recharge our minds, allowing us to return to our tasks with renewed focus and creativity.

So making a conscious effort to integrate playfulness into our routines, we can cultivate a attitude of joy.

In conclusion, playfulness is a powerful tool for enhancing various dimensions of our being. Embracing play, far from being a mere diversion, is crucial for enriching our experiences and fostering a healthier, happier existence—life is certainly better with a dash of joy.

(Thanking my colleague, Ian Arwedt for his marvellous contribution.)

(and my heartfelt thanks to our  skipping girl, Zoe)

Does it Matter?

While Billionaires buy up arable land in USA for their own reasons, why did the Country Liberal party lease the Port of Darwin to the Chinese company, Landbridge ? 

It is what is, however the geopolitical dynamic has definitely changed.  Given recent re-evaluation of our Nation's security posture, the Chinese Navy conducted Iive--rounds war games in Australian waters.  Do we need a reminder of our precarious position in the vast Pacific ocean?

.

While China is still a valuable trading partner, could an Australian company lease or buy a port in China?

Given the obvious answer, what is being done about it? 

Opposition Leader,  Peter Dutton made an announcement that if the Coalition wins election, it would bring back the Port of Darwin under the control of an approved Commonwealth entity. Of course, in the " National Interest."

(Opinion by Digital Anvil.)

A Puzzle no More?

Remember that life is a series of choices! Which lead to feelings which lead to other thoughts then lead to thought patterns and habits followed by actions culminating in our character which then defines our life-outcome.

( This brief essay is a bit simple, but relevant anyway. Remember whole volumes have been researched and published. )

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Gloom and Doom. But Not a Game! ( Re-Worked )

  Nuclear Iran, Trump and Gen Z. (Re-Worked)

 With the impeding gloom and perhaps doom of Iran and its more- than- controversial nuclear facilities and other strategic targets. "Bullying" by President Trump continues with militarily  greater tension cranking up daily. Will Iran continue to stall buying time for their enriched uranium stockpile to reach nuclear club fulfilment?

 Middle East and the Jesus Dream:

I know that you are probably watching the Middle East with renewed emphasis and even fear. Meanwhile in Iran and elsewhere in the region, Christian ministries are reporting that Muslims are having the Jesus dream and voluntarily giving their hearts and lives to the banned and outlawed Faith. This movement, at first anecdotally known, has blossomed into massive numbers which caused a senior Iranian cleric to confess that Iran had closed 50,000 mosques. Out of 75,000 in the nation.

 

Renewed Interest and the Upsurge:

Over the past decade, there has been a surge,an uptick in the Christian community, of interest in prophecy, end of the world scenarios and Christianity in general.  Since the Covid pandemic  individuals who are questioning  their previous anti- Christian  stance have entered traditional  churches  as well as watching online services.

 

Beliefs and Gen Z

While it had been widely reported  that Generation Z has no interest in  traditional organisations promoting organised religion; they continue to develop their overwhelming support for spiritual dimensions in  everyday life.  Some are having second thoughts about New Age beliefs, Yoga and Eastern meditation practices. 

Asking, if an individual is at peace within themselves,  what good is that if the world is at war with itself? They are questioning the value of their own expectations of their long-term beliefs

 

War within, dim on sin?  Could we be seeing that Gen Z is waking up to woke-mess? There is a divide between females and males in Gen Z with the men choosing to become Christian in significant numbers  more than Gen Z women. Some surveys have noted that Gen Z males are becoming more politically conservative than their female peers.

How do you interpret this particular narrative? Is it bias or that "nasty" word, prejudice among the Gen Z population? Do surveys " tell " the truth? Are such small survey populations able to predict and reveal the true nature of  social affairs?

Is President Trump’s Administration causing or influencing anti-woke sentiments in Western civilization as a whole? While the UK appears to uphold some entrenched anti- free speech laws ( Which US Vice-President  Vance lectured the EU on) and President Trump 🤔  thoughtfully placed Tariffs on the UK exports in earnest " retaliation " upon suchlike woke-mess. What do You think?

Care to comment, add your voice to the debate and post your thoughts.