You Do Not Need to Earn Your Value:

You Do Not Need to Earn Your Value:

You Do Not Need to Earn Your Value

One of the hardest beliefs to release is the idea that your value must be earned. 

You may begin to believe you need to achieve more. Perform more. Prove more. Become more. Only then will you finally feel enough. But earned worth has a problem.

The standard keeps moving. 

There is always another goal. Another comparison. Another reason to believe you are not there yet. Performance pressure often promises satisfaction but keeps moving the finish line. This creates exhaustion. Because no matter what you accomplish, there is always another expectation waiting.

Scripture points somewhere different. Your value is not created by achievement. Your worth does not begin when you become more impressive. Psalm 139 reminds us that God’s care and attention toward us existed before accomplishment.

This does not remove the importance of growth. It changes the foundation. Growth becomes something you pursue, not something you use to justify your value.

You can continue becoming. You can continue learning. You can continue improving.

Without treating yourself like a project that must constantly prove itself.

Reflection

What standards have you been using to decide whether you are enough?

Prayer

God, help me stop measuring my value through performance and comparison.

Teach me to see myself through Your perspective.

Help me grow from a place of security rather than pressure.

Amen.

Psalms 139:14 NIV

[14] I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

From an Unknown Contributor.

Many thanks, anyway enjoy.

( from Digital Anvil)

Blessings beyond your imagination

Monday 20th July 2026

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” Ephesians 3:20 NIV

God can create something out of nothing. He can seemingly come out of nowhere, and just when you need Him most, give you something you don’t even have a category for. 

God says: “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV).

You say, “If God has blessings that I don’t even have categories for, how can I ask for them?” That’s where the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you, comes to your aid: “We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us…in accordance with the will of God” (Romans 8:26-27 NIV). And because the Holy Spirit prays in accordance with the will of God, you are blessed with wisdom beyond your knowledge, power beyond your strength, and favour beyond your ability. 

Paul the Apostle put it this way: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV). 

Now you still must do your due diligence, for God cannot bless negligence. But when you know you’ve faithfully done your part and obeyed God, you can trust Him for blessings beyond your imagination.

SoulFood: 1 Tim 4–6 Matt 27:27–32 Ps 146 Pro 18:23–24

My heartfelt thanks to Vision.org.au (From Digital Anvil )

I Would Give My Life To Play Piano Like That!

A story is told of a businessman meeting with world-renowned classical pianist, Richard Clayderman. The businessman said to Clayderman, "I would give my life to play the piano like that." To which Clayderman is said to have replied, "I did."

We love to see success and talent like that of Richard Clayderman. It is a rare art. Yet perhaps it is rare because we are not willing to pay the price for gaining that talent. In an instant world, we are not used to waiting or giving ourselves tirelessly to something that might take years.

Jesus challenged His followers to take up their cross and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). In other words, to gain the eternal benefit of knowing Jesus, they would have to pay for it with their lives.

Just like Clayderman's skills on the keys, anything worthwhile comes at a cost.

Share this daily- reading.

Thanks,Karl Faase.

( from Digital Anvil )

Sanctity of Life:

In the course of  a conversation between Walther Rathenau and Albert Einstein, the following was said,

" There is no simpler way to express the awareness of the sacredness and connectedness of life as it lives in the Jewish people. "

This above quote reveals the strength of  belief of the sanctity of life in the Jewish people.

(by Digital Anvil.)

Final Comment:

(Even though there are detractors,enemies and Allies and supporters of the Jewish identity, the above quote remains true and soluble in the consciousness of the human race. In fact, there are religious and philosophical systems that concur with that concept.)

Films: Are They Getting Worse ? 

 

 

Almost everyone admits films and shows keep getting worse. Few understand why.

Nolan casts Lupita Nyong'o as Helen of Troy. 

One Battle After Another turns left-wing violence into spectacle and the prestige class applauds. 

Star Wars, once a cultural tidal wave, run into the ground. 

Marvel spends a decade building to Endgame, then shoehorns a weightless "she's not alone" into the climax.

The decline you sense is real. 

The cause is simple: art has become propaganda.

Here is how to tell them apart. If the politics serves the story, it is art. Game of Thrones is an excellent example of this. 

If the story serves the politics, it is propaganda. See: The Boys.

They tell us these stories are made-up, so make them however you like. But a myth is the moral reflection of a people — where a culture stores what it learned across centuries about what builds a world and what wrecks it.

Tell a people its myths are arbitrary and you have already begun to unmake them.

Notice the rewriters never build anything. They author no new myths that earn their place. They take the stories we love and drive them into the dirt.

By 'Liam Out Loud.'Podcast

 

( A Good, Original Explainer) 

 

 

What Happens When ?

What happens when a Christian professor at a Christian college is disciplined for expressing a belief he says is rooted in historic Christian teaching?

That question is at the center of a growing legal battle in the United Kingdom, and it is sparking conversations far beyond one campus.

Dr. Aaron Edwards, a theology lecturer formerly employed by Cliff College in Derbyshire, England, says he was dismissed after posting a social media message defending traditional Christian views on sexuality and marriage.

The controversy began when Edwards published a tweet expressing concern that some churches were becoming hesitant to address biblical teachings on sin, sexuality, and repentance. The post generated intense reaction and eventually led to disciplinary action and his departure from the college.

Now, Edwards is pursuing legal action, saying his goal is not only to seek justice for his own situation but also to raise awareness about what he believes is a growing challenge facing Christians who publicly express traditional biblical convictions.

"This is a Gospel issue," Edwards argued, explaining that Christianity's message of salvation is tied to its understanding of sin and redemption.

Regardless of where people stand on the broader debate, the case raises questions many believers are wrestling with today.

How should Christians speak about controversial issues while showing compassion and grace?

Can historic biblical convictions be expressed openly without fear of professional consequences?

And what happens when disagreements over doctrine emerge within Christian institutions themselves?

For Edwards, one of the most painful aspects of the situation is not opposition from secular culture, but conflict within a faith-based environment. He has said it feels different when disagreements arise among people who share the same Christian identity and mission.

Supporters of Edwards argue that theological educators should be free to articulate orthodox Christian beliefs without fear of losing their positions. Others maintain that institutions have responsibilities regarding how staff communicate sensitive issues publicly.

As the legal process unfolds, many academics, pastors, and Christian leaders will be watching closely.

Edwards believes the outcome could influence how future cases are handled and whether other believers feel confident speaking openly about their convictions.

Whatever one's perspective, the story serves as a reminder that faithfulness has often required courage. Throughout church history, believers have wrestled with how to hold firmly to conviction while extending love, humility, and respect to those who disagree.

Perhaps that challenge remains as relevant today as ever.

In a culture marked by division and outrage, Christians are called to pursue both truth and grace. Neither should be sacrificed. Both matter.

As this conversation continues, it is worth praying for wisdom, humility, and courage for everyone involved. Because the way we navigate difficult conversations may say as much about our faith as the convictions we hold.

What are your thoughts on balancing biblical conviction and Christian compassion in today's culture?

Anomymous Contributor.

(From Digital Anvil)

A Good Man in Africa:

A Good Man in Africa:

William Boyd's debut novel A Good Man in Africa is one of the funniest books that I've read in quite some time. Set in a fictional West African nation on the brink of political upheaval, it combines razor-sharp wit, memorable characters, diplomatic intrigue, and moments of genuine tension into an immensely entertaining story. Boyd has an extraordinary ability to find comedy in human weakness without losing sight of the deeper truths about ambition, fear, and self-deception.

The greatest pleasure of reading this novel is its humour. The dialogue sparkles, the situations become increasingly absurd, and the protagonist's attempts to navigate both political chaos and his own personal failings create a constant stream of laugh-out-loud moments. 

Yet beneath the comedy lies a perceptive satire of bureaucracy, colonial legacies, and the often ridiculous nature of power.

From a male perspective, Morgan Leafy is refreshingly human. He is neither a flawless hero nor an irredeemable villain, but an imperfect man wrestling with temptation, responsibility, insecurity, and the expectations placed upon him. Boyd presents masculinity as complex and worthy of examination, showing both its weaknesses and its capacity for resilience. The novel's male characters are diverse, believable, and recognisably human rather than simplistic stereotypes.

Published in 1981, A Good Man in Africa remains remarkably fresh, thanks to Boyd's elegant prose and timeless observations about politics and human nature. It won the Whitbread First Novel Award and the Somerset Maugham Award. It's an intelligent, witty, and highly enjoyable novel that deserves its reputation as a modern comic classic. If you appreciate literary fiction with biting satire, unforgettable humour, and richly drawn characters, this is a book that's well worth reading.

Unknown Contributor.

( from Digital Anvil)

A Woman's Emotions

 

 A Woman's Emotions:

 

Today's post is a portion of my essay. A Topic that is personally relevant and true to life..

 

 Our relationships would be better if we came into them with wholeness, but it's a fact that before we were involved in a long-term relationship, we carried baggage with us.

 

But achieving wholeness can take a long time or even a life-time.

I firmly believe that the circumstances of the marriage or long-term relationship provide the way to wholeness. Yes, God provides for your healing and your partner's healing in the long-term relationship or marriage.

Emotional healing happens faster in a marriage or within the context of a loving, committed, forgiving, love relationship because the hurting person often feels safe enough to face the pain of the past or your partner does not have to hold it together or keep up an image or pretend there is no hurt. If you discovered a variety of hurts and emotions began to surface in your wife or partner - things you weren't aware of before- rejoice that you have been deemed trustworthy enough to be her support through her healing.

 

Please don't run from the task or situation or be afraid of it.

 

Remember, you are the personal 'tool' in God's hand, but only God can fix damaged emotions. He will do it from the inside out and in His way and timing. Your prayers are crucial to keeping the devil at bay and supporting other elements while this is accomplished.

 

While some of our emotions are the outcome of our emotional response to everyday situations, I firmly believe that sometimes events happen where and when we exclaim, 

Why did I do that? 

We are bewildered by our actions and their resultant emotions. No one has not beaten themselves up for doing the inexplicable. 

It should be fairly obvious that all the deep emotional hurts accompanied with tearful episodes need to be healed by a loving, gentle husband or partner with the  All powerful divine Being known as the Heavenly Father. The process is carried out because you are the safe habour whom God has chosen to be a shelter and spiritual covering during her trial.

Tell her that you are praying for her and that you love her more than ever. Keep her calm, free from negative interference.

 With the journey, you shall find that your stronger,  finely-tuned violin shall bring forth splendid music and sweetness like radiant sunshine. The atmosphere is brighter and richer for the both of you.

 I am indebted to my lovely Sister in Law, who has maintained a daily prayer and mutual support 'avenue' for my hurting Wife. As well as her outstanding Counsellor who provided so much loving, emotional and relational support. I am truly glad for Crossway Baptist: Lifecare Centre.

 

 Quote of the Week:

 

 This is disturbing 

...."clerics [in Iran] always knew what Washington seems to have taken four months to accept: the [ Iranian  Theopotic & Tryannicratic ] regime was never lodged in one man[Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ] but rather in a clergy,[ Iranian Senior leadership ] a security apparatus [ IRGC] and a doctrine,[Radical Islam ] and all three came through the bombs intact."

From Gatestone Institute essay by Pierre Rehov.

Context: Extended deals or MOU between Iran and USA. With the backdrop of the deaths of upper -most leadership,loss of missile and other war- waging infrastructure, damaged Nuclear installations, iranian navy, bloodbath January Uprising of ordinary but brave citizens and the attacks on other Gulf nations with drone attacks of commercial shipping and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz.

By Digital Anvil.

Make My Life Count: (Re-work)

On 7th July 2005, terrorists targeted the London Underground Tube system, carrying out coordinated bomb attacks that killed 52 people and injured over 700 others. One of those severely injured was Australian Gillian Hicks.

She was travelling between King's Cross and Russell Square Station when a bomb exploded in her carriage. She lost the lower half of both her legs.

As Hicks waited for paramedics that July morning in the tube wreckage, she made what she describes as a "contract" with herself: if she survived, she would make her life count.

Years after the attack, in a documentary, Hicks reflected on the ways she has done this.

You don’t have to survive a terrorist attack on the London Tube to make that commitment. Let’s decide today to live with purpose; it’s why God created us.

 

Share this daily- reading.

 

Karl Faase,thanks.

 

( from Digital Anvil )

 

 Personal Note:

Once and then again, I encountered Christianity  I began losing  the drive for performative living. Living a consumer lifestyle fashioned around work/weekend driven by too many marketed  but profitable fake needs styled by Hi-Tech, Corps and fashionable lies chasing fruitless outcomes.

While renewing my hard-wiring of false meta- narratives occasioned by some fake societal demands in a post modern worldview, I re-discovered purpose and meaning and belonging with a newer " contract " with greater society. Looking no further than Christianity.✅️

J.K. Rowling: Billionaire Philanthropist.

When people say they hate billionaires, I always wonder...

Which ones?

Because here's one using her wealth to fight for people who don't have the same power.

Media headlines rarely call her one of the world's most successful businesswomen.

They rarely call her a billionaire philanthropist.

They rarely call her a woman who has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to charity. Instead it's almost always...

"Harry Potter author J K Rowling..."

As though reducing one of the most successful women in modern history to the books she wrote somehow makes her easier to dismiss.

Insert eye roll.

Here's what that "Harry Potter author" has actually done.

She has donated hundreds of millions to charities supporting children, families, multiple sclerosis research, poverty relief and humanitarian causes.

She founded Lumos, a charity working to end the institutionalisation of children around the world.

She has financially supported women escaping domestic violence and sexual abuse.

She has established the JK Rowling Women's Fund to support legal action where women and girls' sex based rights are being challenged.

And now she has publicly offered to fund legal action after reports emerged that a 13 year old girl was housed in a secure unit with older male teenagers despite raising concerns for her own safety.

Whether you agree with every opinion she holds is your choice.

Whether you agree that vulnerable girls deserve protection should not be controversial.

People often complain that billionaires don't use their money to make a difference.

Well...

Here's one who is.

She's putting her own reputation, her own wealth and her own resources behind causes she believes protect women and children.

You don't have to agree with everything someone says to recognise courage when you see it. Personally, I'd rather see powerful people use their influence than sit quietly to protect their public image.

That's TRUE leadership.

And that's worthy of respect.

Has the media reduced J K Rowling to "the Harry Potter author" because it's accurate... or because calling her one of the world's most influential and generous women makes her much harder to dismiss?

Unknown Contributor.

( from Digital Anvil )

 Why are Young People so Unhappy and Nobody Knows Why?

 

Wisdom, veracity and determination presenting>>> 

 

It's difficult to fully comprehend the social movements that dominate some, if not all, Western Civilisation's Nations normally associated with the long-term echo of the so -called sexual, social and political and the  cultural revolution of the 50s ,60s and 70s.

Dominating this revolution was the rise of the female activity known as Feminism. Heroines such as Germaine Greer and many vocal others promoted and evolved the ideology that women and girls need to unshackle themselves from auspices of  domineering men who by their very masculine nature were "toxic oppressors" of the female sex.

 Although this correction was substantially needed by many accounts, the  transforming pendulum needs to swing back to equilibrium.

It is with that statement that i ask you (and me) to pay attention or mindfully consider this ARC panel of four by watching  to its conclusion.

 tap or click the linked video below. 

ARC Panel on Boys and Men 

 

I thank the inclusion of Freya India for calm wisdom with the other younger panelists. Approximate running time 12 mins

 

by Digital Anvil. 

 

Final Comment:

In my own believed opinion, the transforming pendulum should be at rest  ( middle-position ) or equilibrium. As simply as far as possible, neither one way or the other. Equal in mutual power, position and love as complete as possible as imperfect persons of either sex. Equal Respect and Love accorded to Both. 

I believe that is only possible in the Judeo-Christian tradition of the earlier centuries forging of another view of femaleness and maleness misinterpreted by forces inimical to the free rule of respect  & love for either sex and in the pursuit of the uplift of all humanity. 

 

The Bible Full of Ordinary People:

Bible Full Of Ordinary People

One of the most instructive aspects of reading the Bible is discovering that its characters are ordinary people, most of whom we can relate to.

The Bible is not full of people whose lives are morally upright and perfect in every way. The characters who feature throughout its pages live messy lives. They often make mistakes, poor choices and have bad attitudes. They let others down and fail to live up to expectations.

Yet many are still heroic and faithful: they live out God's values in the midst of their failures.

They remind us that following Jesus is not about getting it right all the time, but about living in the knowledge that we are forgiven.

 

 God offers us a fresh start every day.

Share this daily- reading.

My earnest thanks,Karl Faase.

( from Digital Anvil )

Prayed About It ?

Have you prayed about it?

“You do not have because you do not ask.” James 4:2 NIV

From the beginning of the Bible to its conclusion, we see absolute evidence that God answers prayer. Things that we think are impossible, God does when people pray! When we pray, we align ourselves with the purposes of God and tap into the power of the Almighty. Because we pray, God works through us in ways He wouldn’t otherwise.

God has made certain things dependent upon prayer, things that will never be done unless we pray. Could God do whatever He chooses without our prayer? Of course. 

But God has determined that He will use the prayers of His people to accomplish His purposes. When we do not pray, we limit what God will do in our lives. 

Some may not like the sound of this, but if it were not true, what could James mean when he writes: “You do not have because you do not ask?” Why would Paul ask some friends to, “Pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honoured…that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 NIV), if he did not believe their prayers had the power to change his circumstances? Both James and Paul believed that God might well withhold His hand of blessing from them if they neglected to pray.

 Since they wanted all the blessing available to them, they not only prayed themselves, they recruited others to pray for them. They never wanted to limit what God might be pleased to do in and through them by failing to pray. And if you want all the blessing God has available, you too must pray.

SoulFood: 2 Sam 3:22–7:17 Matt 24:36–51 Ps 110 Pro 17:15–17

My Thanka to  the  Website: Vision.org.au for this daily reading.

( from Digital Anvil )

The Decline of Attention Spans Dr. Gloria Mark has been studying the declining attention span of adults for 20 years.  In the study, they measured how long an adult would stay on a particular task, in 2004 the average time was about 150 seconds. By 2012, the focused attention time was cut in half to 75 seconds. By 2020, the time was down to an average of 47 seconds. James Emery White, a pastor, author, and cultural commentator who studies trends affecting faith and the church, writes, “Whatever it is we are attempting to convey, much less explain, will need to be communicated more frequently in shorter bursts of ‘snackable content’ because members of Generation Z are the ‘ultimate consumers of snack media.’” We may enjoy the bite-sized information that social media gives us. However, the most important parts of our lives and especially our personal faith will take concentrated times of focus.  Don’t snack-feed your faith.   Share this daily - reading. Thanks Karl Faase. ( from Digital Faith )

Spirituality Aids Recovery:

Spirituality Aids Recovery

Numerous studies, released in 2022 have shown that spirituality can help improve the quality of life for people with chronic diseases such as cancer.

Rachel S. Tobin, then a resident in Internal Medicine at Duke University Hospital, wrote that “...spirituality can also have a positive impact on quality of life for heart failure patients.”

This may surprise some people who think that our health is determined by science and medicine. Faith or spirituality is believed to be irrelevant to recovery, but that is not what research is showing us.

The articles discussing the research suggested that “...not only can spirituality improve quality of life for the patient, it can help support caregivers.”

Your faith is not just about a personal experience or emotional health. It impacts every part of your life.

Share this daily- reading.

Thank you, Karl Faase.

( from Digital Anvil )

Peace to be Gained:

Today, reflecting on peace: To the weary or overwhelmed, peace can be elusive. Saying " don't worry." can be a trigger to more anxiety or worry.

But there remains a solution. If you are a person who understands spiritual things then what i suggest you do shall restore some peace>>>

Prayer is everything..

Prayer reminds us we are not alone. It is relational and formational, renewing our minds and realigning our perspective as we cry out to God.

Prayer & Petition: invites specificity: naming our fears, needs, and hopes.

Thanksgiving reshapes our posture, anchoring us in remembrance and trust.

This practice – repeated not occasionally but in every situation – prepares the soil of our hearts for God’s peace to take root. This peace is unlike anything the world can fabricate. It “transcends all understanding” (NIV) because it doesn’t come from our circumstances but from Christ Himself. Paul, the great Apostle, even describes it as a guard: actively protecting our hearts and minds from being overwhelmed, disoriented, or consumed.

Let this deep truth land: putting Jesus first in your life is the only path to true peace, because true peace only comes from Him. The more we prioritise noticing God’s nearness, turning to Him with openness, and thanking Him for His grace, the more our lives become anchored – even when storms rage.

So don’t delay. Practice peace today. Go to Jesus first – again and again – with your prayers, petitions and gratitude. He is near. And He loves you.

Practice: Take 1-2 minutes today, and each day this week, to pause and do three things:

1. Acknowledge God’s nearness — say aloud or write: “The Lord is near.”

2. Name your worries — in prayer, present one specific anxiety or burden to God. Be honest and clear.

3. Give thanks — name three things you’re grateful for, however small.

Let this become a daily ‘peace practice’ of letting go and leaning in.

A Simple attitude of thanks:

 I receive the gift of your peace – the peace that transcends my understanding. 

Amen.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

( Adapted. Final form by Digital Anvil)

Algorithms are Discipling Us:

Everyone is being discipled by something. The only question is what - or who.

Some suggest our daily habits are shaping us. Others suggest it’s our 5 closest friends. But what about the algorithms controlling the content we see in our social media feeds?

Unlike in the past, these powerful and persuasive technologies are influencing what we see and shaping our thoughts and behaviour more than we realise. The trouble is, this is not just happening to us but it’s also happening to our kids.

Little by little, the algorithm is learning what hooks them and exposing them to more extreme content, steering them in a direction.

So take stock. Not just for you but also for the young people around you. What would it take for you to be more influenced by the words found in scripture and the people in your Christian community, rather than an algorithm designed to capture your attention?

I discussed this idea with Simon Smart( of CPX ) in my recent interview. He has written a book called The End of Men? and has a lot of great thoughts on boys, men and how we shape the next generation.

Share this daily-reading

Grateful to you,Karl Faase.

( from Digital Anvil )

Pure Thought vs the Senses:

Thê evolution of philosophic thought through the Centuries the following question has played a major role. What knowledge  is pure thought able to supply independently of sense perception ?

Is there any such knowledge? If not, what precisely is the relation between our knowledge and the raw-material furnished by sense-impressions? 

An almost boundless chaos of philosophical opinions corresponds to these questions and to a few others intimately connected with them. Nevertheless. there is visible in this process of relatively fruitless but heroic a systematic trend of development, namely an increasing endeavours skepticism concerning every attempt by means of pure thought to learn something about the "objective world," about the world of "things" in contrast to the world of mere "concepts and ideas." 

Be it said parenthetcally that, just as on the part of a real philosopher, quotation-marks ae used here to introduce an "illegitimate" concept, which the reader is asked to permit for the moment, although the concept is suspect in the eyes of the philosophical police.

The above quote is introduced but paused here because i ask that those who agree or disagree are given a chance to connect yet relied upon to comment if willing ?

By way of  a question,what do you think pure thought is or means ? Is pure thought real? Without the 5 main senses,is pure thought even possible? If a being thinks purely, how does he or she communicate the outcome ? Is a being that applies pure thought to reasoning, even exist ?

Please  drop your ideas below in the comments.

By Digital Anvil.

Most Influential Sermon:

The Most Influential Sermon

The most influential sermon you'll hear is the one you preach internally to yourself.

Unknown.

 

Replace the word "sermon" with the word "monologue ", then re-read. Or replace the word, " self -talk " instead of  the term "sermon." Or "thought -life " instead of the word, " sermon."

 

(from Digital Anvil) 

Celebrating  Masculinity:  A Lost Cause ?

 

 It's with wisdom,veracity and determination,  presenting...

"A few days ago, while visiting Westminster Abbey, I paused before the memorial to William Wilberforce. Standing there, I reflected on the extraordinary life of a man whose courage, faith, and perseverance helped change the world...

Wilberforce was a British parliamentarian who spent decades fighting the transatlantic slave trade and, ultimately, slavery itself within the British Empire. At a time when powerful economic interests defended the trade, he refused to give up. Year after year, despite defeats, ridicule, and political opposition, he continued the campaign.

What inspires me most is not only what he achieved, but why he did it... Deeply motivated by his Christian faith, Wilberforce believed that every human being possessed inherent dignity and worth. He saw slavery as a profound moral wrong and dedicated much of his life to ending it.

The abolition of the slave trade in 1807 was a landmark victory, but he continued the struggle until slavery itself was abolished. Remarkably, news of the Slavery Abolition Act reached him just days before his death in 1833.

Today, Wilberforce rests in the North Transept of Westminster Abbey, among many of Britain's most influential figures. His legacy is a reminder that determined individuals can confront immense injustices, that moral conviction matters, and that lasting change often requires decades of patient effort...

Walking through Westminster Abbey, I was struck by how one person's faith, character, and persistence helped bring freedom to countless others. William Wilberforce's life remains an enduring example of principled leadership in the service of humanity. "

Anonymous Contributor.

 

If you agree or alternatively with the thrust of this tribute, drop or add your comment below.

(From Digital Anvil)

 The Triumph of ARC  ?

  

Speakers at the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship Conference in London argued that the long-term renewal of Western civilization depends on recovering its Christian moral and spiritual foundations.

Author Michael Shellenberger said that the decline in belief in God has left many people struggling to make sense of suffering, morality, and purpose. He argued that many modern social and cultural movements reflect deeper spiritual and psychological needs.

Journalist Melanie Phillips said that many of the values associated with Western civilization have their roots in the Hebrew Bible and Christianity, warning that society has weakened the moral framework that once helped sustain those values.

Theologian Johannes Hartl emphasized that genuine renewal begins with personal transformation rather than outward religion alone. He encouraged Christians to pursue heartfelt faith, prayer, and spiritual renewal within the Church.

The conference highlighted ongoing discussions about the relationship between faith, culture, and the future of Western society.

Thanks to unknown Contributor.

( from Digital Anvil )

The Deconstruction of Australia and the West: A Marxist Strategy from Within.

 This has been playing out in Australia and across the West:  (Incrementally in the past few decades )

Marxism is the foundational theory of modern communism. Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels laid it out in The Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital: history is class struggle, capitalism must be overthrown, leading to a classless, stateless society. All Marxism aims at communism as the end goal.

When violent revolution failed in prosperous Western nations, the New Left pivoted to the "Long March through the Institutions" — a gradual takeover of education, media, government, corporations, and culture. The goal? Capture the "commanding heights" of society so radical ideas become the default and dissent is marginalised.

This is playing out in Australia and across the West:

Critical Race Theory (CRT) & Equity Frameworks: Race is a tool of power. Racism is "systemic" in all Western institutions. Merit, objectivity, and liberalism are re-framed as oppression. It spreads through schools as "anti-racism" or ethnic studies, portraying the West (and Australia) as irredeemably racist while ignoring progress, individual agency, or non-Western atrocities*.

DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion): Prioritises group outcomes over merit via quotas and preferences. "Equity" means equal results, not opportunity. "Inclusion" often means speech codes and bias training that sidelines dissent. In diverse Australia, it's often criticised as tick-box exercises that erode national cohesion and fairness in hiring, education, and public service.

History & Culture Deconstruction: Postmodern ideas tear down Western achievements — Enlightenment values, rule of law, science, and our shared Australian heritage — as nothing but oppression (colonialism, patriarchy, etc.). This erodes pride in our nation and ancestors, making us receptive to replacement narratives.

Silencing Dissent: Cancel culture, deplatforming, and institutional censorship target critics of mass immigration, gender ideology, biological reality, or "woke" policies. HR teams, universities, and "disinformation" efforts enforce it. Self-censorship is rising, especially among younger Aussies. Polls show most Australians oppose it.

Indoctrination of Children: Teacher training and curricula push identity politics, systemic guilt, and gender as fluid (separate from biology). Programs like Safe Schools sparked debates over content and parental rights. Social transitions sometimes bypass families. This shapes the next generation before they can think critically.

This isn't organic progress, it's cultural Marxism adapting to break the West from inside, weakening our soul, borders, fertility, and identity. Australia's government policies, education, and institutions show the same patterns: "Australia First" is demonised while division grows.

Wake up, Australia. Our nation, bloodline, and Western civilisation are worth defending. Share this, speak up, support leaders and content that put Australia and our people first. The long march can be reversed with awareness and resolve.

 

#AustraliaFirst #PutAustraliaFirst #DefendTheWest #WakeUpAustralia

Thanks to unknown contributor.

(From Digital Anvil.)

 

 

*Examples are ending of Slavery in UK and USA, the Rise and Fall of the Ottoman Empire and other downplayed or re- written violent history and so on. Individuals like Mother Theresa, William Wilberforce, Abraham Lincoln,.Florence Nightingale, Charles Wesley and so on. The Rise of the Global South dependent on the so- called colonisation and uplift of the.Southern Hemisphere.

Offensive ?

Re- viewing a previous conversation reminds me of a simple question one might ask a person who  seems to be from another nation.

" Where are you from ?"

( A simple conversation starter )

Why do i state that ?

Because i watched a TV program which stated that asking such a question is

Wait for it

...

Offensive !!!

Written with alarm, disbelief and in the interest of ... common sense.

By Digital Anvil.

and international relations. Social cohesion and "other" discoveries.

Why Tech in Schools is a Catastrophe

Why Technology in Schools Is A Catastrophe....

In her speech at ARC 2026, actress and campaigner Sophie Winkleman delivered a powerful critique of screens, EdTech, and AI in education, arguing that the technologies reshaping childhood are also undermining imagination, concentration, and deep thinking.

 Drawing on neuroscience, educational research, and examples from schools around the world, she makes the case for books, handwriting, human teachers, and an “analog education” in a digital age.

Tap or click the link below

sophie's speech here

(From Digital Anvil.)

New Moral Code [of the West.]

New Moral Code

For generations, there has been an agreed moral code in Western nations which centred around basic Christian ethics. It was the foundation of our legal system. This has changed and a new moral code has emerged. Authors Lyons and Kinnaman wrote that there are new guiding principles, here are four:

1. To find yourself, look within yourself

2. People should not criticise someone else’s life choices

3. To be fulfilled in life, pursue the things you desire most

4. Enjoying yourself is the highest goal in life

We are so used to these principles that we don’t notice them anymore. But we need to see that this has been a massive shift. We have moved from looking to a creator God as our central motivation, to ourselves.

Humanity now worships itself. Is this how we want to live?

Share this daily - reading.

My thanks to  my occasional " mentor" Karl Faase.

From Digital Anvil.

Old Man at ARC.

It's one of my theories that Old Men are essentially needed to help Reality find its seat in a newer thought-space.

Of course we've all heard that new expression saying that the reality of "old,white men" are the bane of modern society, the so- called patriarchy of Western civilisation with its attendant illness of "toxic masculinity."  Truly if " old white men" are seemingly the problem, what of "old white women" ? 

 

Bad apples exist in every clime,society and group.

We are all taught the neo- modern claim that men are the root of  all social evils but never hear of "toxic femininity" not even as an insult to women. Perfection must be female and society needs to be  ruled by a matriarchy instead. ( As perfect as God as many claim except as perfect as a Goddess.)  In my opinion , the pendulum had swung too far, time to return to equilibrium.

Here embedded is a link to the ARC 2025 Conference in London. From a seasoned philosopher/ commentator named Os Guiness.

In his speech he alludes to such social formations as the " creative minority " and " the 3 Rs. " it is with the will and pleasure that i commend his talk to you. You might not agree but listen anyway.

 

Tap or click link below.

Os Guiness and his talk

By Digital Anvil.

Kindness of Strangers

Once when we were filming in Hong Kong, I was leaving a café with my hands full of five coffees when an elderly Chinese resident jumped to his feet to open the door for me. As I left the cafe, thankful for his small act of kindness, I thought through our times of travel and was reminded again of the numerous times we have experienced the kindness of strangers.

It challenged me as a Christian communicator. I theologically believe in the fallen nature of humanity, we are all broken and lost, yet it is wrong to demonise everyone, everywhere.

This kindness was also a reminder to all of us, be kind to others. The Apostle Paul said "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience" (Colossians 3:12). Greet others with a smile, be warm, say thank you, express appreciation. Kindness to strangers is what makes living in cities, towns and communities a joy rather than a challenge.

Share this daily- reading.

Karl Faase,thanks.

( from Digital Anvil )

Lighthouse:

 

A Light shone out of the darkness but the darkness could not overcome it.

By  a lessor light: Digital Anvil.