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Onéa Covey announces the release of her book, ‘Mystic in the Forest.
Onéa Covey, a gifted storyteller from an Arizona mining town, invites readers to board a mesmerizing journey into the realms beyond our reality with her latest book, "Mystic in The Forest."
In this fascinating tale, Covey introduces us to the hidden existence of higher-dimensional beings that have lurked in the shadows of our world for eons. Unseen and unknown until now, these beings weave a mysterious tapestry of an alternate world, leaving readers fascinated by the enigma of dimensional tiers coexisting within the familiar sphere we call home.
The narrative unfolds in 2019 before the world grappled with a devastating global pandemic. Robert and Alison, an ordinary couple, set out on a fishing outing by the lakeside with their daughter, Aries. Little did they know that fate had orchestrated a different course for them. Robert's fishing hook becomes entangled in a trap within the lake, leading to a tragic incident that forever separates the family.
Enter a benevolent creature from another dimension, the unwitting architect of the trap. Recognizing the lone survivor, Aries, the animal guides her through a portal into an uncharted dimension beyond human senses. The story takes an eerie pause, with the world remaining silent for two long years until the discovery of the decomposed bodies of Robert and Alison. Upon finding the tragic remnants, a determined hunter sets out on a mission to uncover the secrets of the missing girl and the elusive creatures he's only heard whispers of.
Onéa Covey, known for her vibrant imagination nurtured in the backdrop of an Arizona mining town, seamlessly weaves a tale that transcends the boundaries of reality. Her childhood experiences of art, dance, and imaginative adventures with family laid the foundation for a creative career. Later in life, inspired by her Nana's healing gifts, Covey delves into the realms of intuitive energy healing.
"Mystic in The Forest" invites readers into a world of mystery and intrigue and catalyzes self-love and healing. Covey's narrative highlights the deep interconnectedness of all beings, encouraging readers to raise their vibrations as a positive force for change.
Prepare to be fascinated by "Mystic in The Forest" as Onéa Covey takes you on an extraordinary journey beyond the confines of our reality, unlocking the secrets of higher dimensional beings and the profound impact of self-discovery and healing.
Available on Amazon
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Juggling Work and Family: Finding Balance as a Modern Woman
Juggling work and family can be a challenge for any parent, but it can be particularly difficult for women who face additional societal pressures and expectations. Balancing the demands of a career and the needs of a family can be exhausting, but with some careful planning and support, it is possible to find a happy medium.
The reality is that many women are expected to balance a career with the responsibilities of raising a family. Whether it is due to financial necessity or personal ambition, women are often encouraged to pursue both career and family goals simultaneously. However, this can be an enormous source of stress and anxiety.
One of the most important things that women can do when juggling work and family is to be realistic about their expectations. It is important to acknowledge that there may be times when work and family responsibilities conflict, and that it is okay to ask for help when needed. Women should not feel like they have to do everything on their own, and should not be afraid to delegate tasks or ask for support from their partner, family members, or friends.
Another key strategy for juggling work and family is to prioritize self-care. Women who are constantly juggling the demands of work and family can easily become burnt out and exhausted. Taking time to prioritize self-care can help to reduce stress and increase resilience. This can include things like taking time for exercise, getting enough sleep, and making time for hobbies and other activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
It is also important to establish clear boundaries between work and family time. Women who work from home may find it particularly challenging to separate work and family responsibilities. One way to create boundaries is to establish a designated workspace that is separate from the rest of the home. This can help to create a physical separation between work and family, and can help women to focus on their work when they are working, and on their family when they are not.
Communication is also key when juggling work and family. Women should communicate openly with their employer about their family responsibilities, and should try to negotiate flexible work arrangements whenever possible. This could include things like working from home, flexible work hours, or job sharing. Employers who are willing to work with their employees to accommodate family responsibilities are likely to see increased loyalty and productivity.
Finally, it is important to be kind to oneself. Women who are juggling work and family are likely to experience feelings of guilt, stress, and overwhelm. It is important to remember that these feelings are normal, and that it is okay to make mistakes or ask for help. Women should strive to be gentle with themselves, and should seek out support from family, friends, or a therapist if needed.
In conclusion, juggling work and family can be a significant challenge for women. However, by being realistic about expectations, prioritizing self-care, establishing clear boundaries, communicating openly, and being kind to oneself, it is possible to find a balance that works. Women who are able to balance work and family responsibilities are likely to feel more fulfilled and content, both personally and professionally. With support, planning, and perseverance, it is possible to juggle work and family in a way that works for everyone.
To know more about a woman named Ginger and how she manages to take care of her two kids as well as her job of a secret agent, read Foley Western’s book series “Agent Ginger.”
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Women in Arms: Breaking Down Barriers and Paving the Way for Equality
Women have been involved in warfare for centuries, yet their contributions have often been overlooked or minimized. In recent years, however, there has been a growing recognition of the important role that women play in military operations, and many countries around the world have begun to actively recruit and deploy women in arms.
One of the reasons why it is important to have women in arms is that it can help to improve the overall effectiveness and success of military operations. Women bring a unique perspective and skill set to the battlefield, which can help to broaden the range of strategies and approaches that are available to military leaders. In addition, women can often be more effective at engaging with local populations, particularly in cultures where there are strict gender norms and women are not allowed to interact with men outside of their families.
Another reason why it is important to have women in arms is that it can help to promote gender equality and empowerment. By breaking down traditional gender roles and expectations, women in arms can challenge gender stereotypes and pave the way for greater gender equality in society at large. In addition, women in arms can serve as role models and inspiration for other women, demonstrating that they are capable of succeeding in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Unfortunately, despite the benefits of having women in arms, there are still many challenges and barriers that women face when trying to enter the military. One of the biggest challenges is overcoming gender stereotypes and biases, which can make it difficult for women to be taken seriously and to advance in their careers. In addition, women in the military often face higher rates of sexual harassment and assault, which can be devastating to their physical and mental health, as well as their careers.
Despite these challenges, however, there are many women who have succeeded in the military and who continue to blaze a trail for future generations. One such woman is Brigadier General Tammy Smith, who became the first openly gay general officer in the US military in 2012. Another is Colonel Gail Halvorsen, who became known as the "Candy Bomber" during the Berlin Airlift in 1948-49 for dropping candy to children in the war-torn city from his plane.
There are also many organizations and initiatives that are working to support and promote women in arms. The Women in International Security (WIIS) organization, for example, is dedicated to advancing the leadership and professional development of women in the field of international peace and security. The International Women's Forum (IWF), meanwhile, brings together women from different backgrounds and sectors to promote women's leadership and to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
In conclusion, women in arms have played a critical role in military operations throughout history, yet their contributions have often been overlooked or minimized. By promoting greater gender equality and empowerment, and by breaking down traditional gender roles and expectations, women in arms can challenge gender stereotypes and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. While there are still many challenges and barriers that women face in the military, there are also many women who have succeeded and who continue to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
To know more about a woman named Ginger and how she manages to her life as a secret agent, read Foley Western’s book series “Agent Ginger.”
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Celebrating Diversity: Embracing Our Differences as Human Beings
In today's world, there is a lot of emphasis on fitting in and conforming to societal norms. From our appearance to our beliefs, we are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us what we should be like in order to be accepted. However, the reality is that everyone is different, and that is something to be celebrated, not feared.
One of the reasons why it is important to embrace our differences is that it can help to foster greater understanding and empathy. When we recognize and value the differences in others, we are better able to appreciate their unique experiences and perspectives. This can help to break down barriers between individuals and create a more inclusive and harmonious society.
In addition, embracing our differences can also help to cultivate greater self-awareness and self-acceptance. When we are able to recognize and celebrate the things that make us unique, we are better able to accept ourselves for who we are. This can help to build confidence, reduce feelings of insecurity, and create a greater sense of personal fulfillment.
Another reason why it is important to embrace our differences is that it can lead to greater creativity and innovation. When we embrace our unique perspectives and experiences, we are better able to approach problems from different angles and find new solutions. This can be particularly valuable in a business setting, where innovation and creativity are highly valued.
Unfortunately, despite the benefits of embracing our differences, many people still struggle to do so. This is often due to societal pressures and expectations, which can make it difficult to be true to ourselves. However, there are a number of strategies that we can use to embrace our differences and celebrate the uniqueness of ourselves and others.
One of the most important things that we can do is to practice empathy and compassion. This means being open-minded and accepting of others, even if their beliefs or experiences are different from our own. By practicing empathy and compassion, we can create a more inclusive and accepting environment that celebrates diversity and fosters greater understanding.
Another key strategy for embracing our differences is to focus on our strengths rather than our weaknesses. Too often, we focus on our flaws and imperfections, which can lead to feelings of insecurity and self-doubt. However, by focusing on our strengths and unique abilities, we can cultivate greater self-confidence and self-esteem, which can help us to better appreciate our differences.
Finally, it is important to surround ourselves with people who value and celebrate our differences. This means seeking out friends, colleagues, and mentors who appreciate us for who we are and who support us in our goals and aspirations. By surrounding ourselves with positive and supportive people, we can build a strong sense of community and create a more positive and accepting environment.
In conclusion, embracing our differences is a powerful way to create a more inclusive, empathetic, and innovative society. By recognizing and valuing the unique experiences and perspectives of others, we can cultivate greater understanding and acceptance, both of ourselves and of others. While it can be challenging to embrace our differences in a world that values conformity, it is a critical step towards creating a more positive and accepting world.
To read more on the adventures of friends having differing personalities, read Western Foley’s book “To be Young.”
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Self-love, Self-Healing
There are some people in this world who give their all to the people around them. Whatever they have, they will happily give it away than keep it to themselves. They will do everything and anything in their power to give the other person what they want.
They won’t think twice before investing their emotions, and there is where the problem arises. These people, who make friends easily, will do anything in their power to strengthen this bond. And so, these individuals run far away from self-love. If you are one of those people, you know in your heart how much you have done for other people, never treating yourself the same way. That’s not to say that we should not help people or be unkind; it simply implies that there are very few people who keep self-love as a priority.
These people enable others to walk over them or even, in some cases, use them for their own good and step into the limelight themselves.
In today’s world, you must think about yourself first before anything and anyone else. You need to realize from very early on that only a few will genuinely care about you and what you do. All others are either there to spectate or compete against you. This is the practical world we live in, and we will only get what we strive for. If we keep passing up opportunities for the benefit of others, then the world will leave us behind.
Self-love is deeply connected with how we perceive ourselves. It is linked to how much we value ourselves. In order to love, it is also crucial to have a solid mental image. Know that you can do everything. Understand that at the end of the day, you are human, you can make mistakes, and even if you do stumble, you can always get back up. Any blunder you make is not the end of the world and certainly does not mean you have destroyed your life. It is very important to give yourselves the pep talk you would normally give others. Accepting who you are is a pivotal aspect of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Here are some of the reasons why self-love is important and how your self-healing becomes essential for not only your good but also for the people around you.
Growth: When we love ourselves, it is easier to accept our mistakes and, therefore, room for healthy learning
Managing Difficult Times: Self-love allows us to deal with hard times rationally. Otherwise, we would be scurrying around for solutions in the dark.
Healthy lifestyle: Taking care of yourself should never be your last priority. It allows us to live our lives to the fullest and helps us work more efficiently. When our body receives love and care, it also responds by working to its full potential.
“Meditation for Anxiety and Stress Relief” by Faye Quinn will allow you to delve deep into the concept of self-healing and self-love. It will take you further into the concept of self-acceptance and, eventually, attaining a peaceful life.
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What is Anxiety?
What is anxiety? It is the feeling of helplessness when you do not know what is going around. You may be helpless; you may want to shout out loud, but you will feel like no one in the entire world can listen to you.
You want to be able to do so much in life but still feel it slipping away right before your eyes. It’s like going to the beach and feeling the sand disappearing from under the soles of your feet. You can do nothing to stop it. No matter how hard you dig your feet in, it will be like it was
never there in the first place.
Some people will tell you everything will be okay or that there is nothing you need to worry about, but you will know in your heart that everything hangs loosely in the balance, like Jenga. You may do all you can to ensure the tower does not fall, but with every step you take, the piece
you pull out will feel like it is your last. People with anxiety are so scared of disrupting the balance that they forget why they built it in the first place. They forget that even if everything comes crashing down, you can always begin again. Nobody has the ability to take anything away from
you. You are allowed to make as many mistakes as you can. There are many ways to keep you from overthinking and thus panicking, and one of them is meditation.
A lot of people think meditation is nothing but sitting idly for hours and breathing really loudly, but that’s not it. Meditating is just another way to heal your mind and train yourself to think about positive things in life. It is just like working out to maintain your body; that is what meditation is for the mind.
Meditation soothes you; it gives you a sense of balance, mentally and emotionally. It teaches you the importance of taking some time out for yourself, something which has suddenly become very challenging to do nowadays. It slows you down and allows you to analyze your life,
where you take a moment to evaluate your feelings, to not bury them to the point where your heart can’t take it anymore. Meditation helps you refocus and take your mind off the negative thought or, even better, turn them into positive affirmations. It is meant to calm you down and help you
learn how to keep your inner peace. It is imperative that you learn how to figure out what is going on in your heart and your head before you run off into the world without a clue. You may be able to deal with certain things now, but there will be times when you are all on your own trying to
figure out where you came from and, more importantly, where you were headed in the first place.
Get your very own hard copy of Meditation for Anxiety & Stress Relief by Faye Quinn to
know how you can manage your anxiety with the help of meditation!
Available on Amazon, Google Books, Kobo, and Blurb
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Powerful Tips to Overcome Adversities in Life
When faced with a challenging situation, do you view it as a chance to learn, or do you allow it to disrupt your progress?
Adversities can affect anyone, but everyone responds to them differently. While some individuals can endure difficult times and come out stronger, others may find it difficult to cope. If you choose to resist the challenges, it can become even more overwhelming. This makes it essential to embrace the mess of life and use these challenges to your advantage.
Here, we will explore some powerful tips to help you overcome adversity and rise above everything.
Practice Self Compassion
It's important to practice self-compassion when we face difficult times in life. Being kind to ourselves instead of being overly critical and hard on ourselves can improve our emotional well-being and help us move forward with greater ease.
Become The Master of Your Emotions
To overcome adversity, it's essential to become the master of our emotions. Letting external circumstances dictate our feelings can be easy, but taking a proactive approach can help us stay in control. When we don't let our emotions get the best of us, we can face any challenge with confidence and resilience.
Have Self Confidence
Believing in ourselves and our abilities is also important. Real confidence isn't about being perfect or never failing. It's about trusting that we can figure things out, even in the toughest situations. Remember, we've overcome difficult situations in the past, and we can do it again!
Stay Optimistic
Staying optimistic when facing adversity is also helpful. Falling into a negative mindset when things go wrong only holds us back. By staying positive and focusing on solutions, we can bounce back faster and overcome any obstacle.
Remember that experiencing challenges and hardships is a part of life. Instead of letting them bring us down, we can use them as an opportunity to grow and succeed. With determination and a growth mindset, we can overcome anything that comes our way. So go ahead and embrace whatever life is throwing your way.
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The Importance of Self-Care When Dealing With Chronic Health Conditions
Managing chronic health conditions can be incredibly challenging, as these illnesses can take a significant toll on your physical and emotional health. However, prioritizing self-care can be one of the effective ways to manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
In this blog, we will discuss some key reasons why self-care is so important when dealing with chronic health conditions:
Reduce Stress
Chronic health conditions can cause significant stress and anxiety, which can worsen the symptoms of your illness. By practicing self-care techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, you can help reduce stress and improve your overall health. These practices can help you relax, calm your mind, and reduce your stress levels, which can ultimately help you manage your chronic health condition more effectively.
Improve Physical Health
Chronic health conditions can make it challenging to maintain your physical health. However, by prioritizing self-care practices such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, you can manage your symptoms and improve your overall health. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your cardiovascular health, and boost your immune system. A healthy diet can help you manage your symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve your energy levels.
Boost Mental Health
Chronic health conditions can also take a toll on your mental health. Prioritizing self-care and taking time to relax and recharge can help boost your mood and improve your mental well-being. Self-care practices such as spending time in nature, connecting with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies that bring you joy can all help improve your mental health and well-being.
Enhance the quality of life
Chronic health conditions can limit your ability to participate in your daily activities. However, practicing self-care can help you manage your symptoms and enhance your quality of life. By prioritizing self-care practices that help manage your symptoms, you can regain control of your life and participate in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Reduces Healthcare Costs
Chronic health conditions can be incredibly expensive to manage, particularly if you require ongoing medical care. However, self-care practices such as regular exercise and a healthy diet can help manage symptoms and reduce healthcare costs associated with chronic health conditions. By taking control of your health and managing your symptoms, you can reduce your reliance on costly medical interventions.
Empowerment
Practicing self-care can help you feel empowered to take control of your health. By prioritizing your well-being and investing in practices that help manage your symptoms, you can better manage your chronic health condition and improve your overall health. Feeling empowered to take control of your health can be incredibly empowering and can help you live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
Self-care is an essential aspect of managing chronic health conditions. By prioritizing self-care, you can take control of your health. So, take care of yourself, practice self-care, and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
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Top 5 Ways to Cope with The Challenges of Chronic Illness
Chronic illnesses are long-term health conditions that can last for years and even be lifelong. They are different from acute illnesses which are shorter in duration and often easier to treat. Chronic illnesses can be difficult to deal with and there are many challenges that come along with them. However, there are ways to manage the challenges of chronic illnesses and it is quite possible to live a full and satisfying life with it.
In this blog, we will explore the top 5 ways to cope with the challenges that come along with chronic illnesses.
1. Seek support:
Suffering from chronic illnesses can lead to extreme distress and in these challenging times seeking support is crucial. Reach out to friends, family members, or support groups that can provide you comfort and empathy.
2. Communicate with your healthcare provider often:
Maintaining regular communication with your healthcare provider is essential to discussing treatment options and managing symptoms effectively. This can help you address your concerns effectively and take necessary steps to improve and optimize the quality of your life.
3. Adopt healthy habits:
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is crucial. Incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity according to your doctor's advice, getting an adequate amount of sleep, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking.
4. Manage stress:
Chronic conditions can be extremely stressful, so it's important to find healthy ways to manage your stress levels. Consider different relaxation exercises and techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, or engaging in activities that you enjoy.
5. Educate yourself:
Make efforts to get information about your health condition. Understanding your condition and treatment options will empower you to actively participate in your healthcare journey. Stay informed through reliable sources, consult with various healthcare specialists, and remember to ask questions frequently in your appointment.
Living with chronic health conditions can present numerous challenges that can affect an individual’s quality of life physically, emotionally, and financially. However, by understanding these challenges and following these coping strategies, a person can deal with the impact of their health condition more effectively.
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The Bible and the Contradictions Within
Despite being a holy book, the Bible, just like every other book, has many editions and translations that differ widely from one another. Some of these differences are so drastic that non-believing readers raise questions about the credibility of the narrator. Some believe, as part of their faith, that the holy book has more than one writer. While the believers have reasons and evidence to explain the contradictions in the Bible, non-believers see it as proof to reject the book and its teachings.
At one point in the Bible, God marks Sabbath day as holy, but at another point, He dislikes the notion of considering one day more esteemed than the rest.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” — Exodus 20:8
“One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.” — Romans 14:5
Not only in the teachings, we see contradictions in the biblical stories too.
“Take with you seven pairs of every kind of clean animal, a male and its mate, and one pair of every kind of unclean animal, a male and its mate, and also seven pairs of every kind of bird, male and female, to keep their various kinds alive throughout the earth.” — Genesis 7:2-3
“And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive.” — Genesis 6:19-20
Before going forth, one must know that incest was allowed only in the beginning when it was necessary to increase the world's population. This was before any law was a writer, but after the Exodus (departure of Israelites from Egypt), incest was prohibited and never allowed again.
A more in-depth and critical study of the Bible proves that the holy book is filled with contradictions. There are contradictions in Old Testament, New Testament, International, and King's edition, etc. If in one verse, God forbids incest, then in another, he allows it and even blesses it. The list of contradictions in the Bible is long and hard to explain in a few chosen words, but there is much about it said in Cletus McMurtry's book, “Is that really in the bible?” McMurty takes every rejection of the non-believers and tries to explain it as logically and reasonably as possible. The fact that he is one of the few authors who has looked at the Bible objectively aside from being a religious texts helps strengthen his prose.
Some of the objectives taken by McMurty to explain the contradictions in the Bible are admirable hence worth mentioning. He explains the nuances involved in translating ancient texts many centuries after their first publication and asks his readers to think about context, perception, and interpretation. There is also the matter of the personal input of the interpreter and how a simple word can have different meanings, depending on how and when it has been said. For further information, you must read chapters 3 and 4 of his book as he explains the core of contradictions in the Bible quite exceptionally.
While the Bible provides enough ground to reject its credibility, there is much to be said about his followers who have never claimed it to be unchanged and untampered, unlike some other holy books. There is acceptance among Christians that the Bible today is not the book's religion. Over the years and many translations later, much of its wordings have been swapped or changed altogether, yet its core ideology remains the same.
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What Role does Interpretation play in Translation?
A translator’s role is a nuanced commodity that undoubtedly facilitates both literature and languages. Yet, it has the baggage of Semantics and Etymology because without them, much can be lost in the translation. One word can mean many different things depending on the language and where it’s been said, at what time, and by whom. Throw in the added difficulty of perception, and you'll have translations varying in interpretations. Even in English, there are words called homonyms that sound the same and are spelled the same, and still, they differ in meaning.
This complexity doesn’t just end with words; it continues with phrases or even sentences. For example, saying the phrase "shooting your shot" in a bar should not be taken literally because, based on the context here, it means taking a chance with someone you fancy. Now, if the same sentence was said in a shooting range, no one would have interpreted it any other way. This example might be a bit mundane, but it explains the core of the title.
Translations are an important branch of literature as they help people understand the thoughts and ideologies of foreign lands and cultures. It creates awareness in readers about the speakers of the language and brings them together through literature, as many believe that a country's literature is the mirror of its history, culture, and values. Translators make literature accessible to more readers and are somewhat the bridges among cultures. A good translator will be able to retain the intention of the writer and narrator until the very end with remarkable consistency.
The most convoluted case of translation-interpretation is religious texts, especially the bible. Perception and context make the whole of its translation, leaving room for individual interpretation. Compared to English, the languages of most religious texts is ancient and have gone through centuries of change that a modern-day translator can hardly do justice to its Semantics. Translators dealing with religious texts mostly use notes and context of the old translations, deeming them more historically accurate. Still, it doesn’t mean that new translations of religious texts are just replicas of old ones because perception can very well interfere with the interpretations.
While the freedom to interpret the translated text as per perception provides flexibility in ideas, it threatens the credibility of original ideas. Despite being open to interpretation in some cases, the bible isn't entirely dependent on its reader's whims. But anyone with authority and influence can convince the masses to accept their self-serving interpretations, and history bears witness that this claim is not far from reality.
To put it simply, there is no denying that translating religious or any kind of texts without context can open doors for a plethora of different interpretations. A translation uncertain in its intention can land flat on the reader’s understanding, forcing them to pull meaning out of thin air. And while translation with clear intentions is imperative, sometimes it fails to yield the desired outcome because when it comes to interpretation, people rely on their knowledge and perception more than others unless they deem someone with more intellect than them.
The old and new testaments and the many versions of the bible prove how interpretation can interfere with translation and create entirely new versions of the same text. Cletis McMurty’s “Is that really in the bible?” expounds on the conundrum of choosing between these versions. The author primarily considers the bible as any other book instead of a religion’s rule book, and that helped him gain a personal perspective on its texts. Of course, understanding the book without its religious context was impossible, but his stance on translations affecting understanding and interpretation is conveyed exceptionally.
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Religion: A Powerful Manipulation Tool
History bears witness that religion has always been used as a tool to manipulate the masses for personal and political gain. Religion has been in the thick of power struggles, wars, and almost every country's political scenes and cross-border conflict. Belief is a powerful concept, and people believing in something greater than them and their world gives them hope for tomorrow. When times are hard, and a person's spirits are in the trenches, he holds onto his belief fast. Though it might seem cruel, people often turn to their God when they are at their lowest in lieu of when they are doing good in life.
As it turns out, desperation makes people lose their good sense, making killers out of them. Most cults use religion as the core of their ideology, and with a little bit of theatrics, they can convince their followers to do the craziest things possible. Before 9/11 (another catastrophe instigated by religion), the mass suicide of Jonestown held the title of America's largest civilian casualties.
The incident happened in November 1978 under the leadership of Jim Jones in a secluded countryside settlement located in Venezuela. Around 900 Americans drank poison to kill themselves, children, women, and animals included because their deranged leader Jim Jones said so. They were part of a religious group, Peoples Temple, that gained much support and media scrutiny in its early years. Tired of the public’s rising suspicion about his practices, Jim Jones decided to move somewhere else with his trusted followers. The gruesome details of the incident show barbaric hold a religion can hold on its believers that they don't hesitate to take their own lives.
As mentioned before, 9/11 is another historical event that shows the power of religion as a manipulative tool. The scale of that destruction is unfathomable to many even to this day but is just another proof of the power religion holds over us. Even when people say, “not us” or “none can shake our morals,” they end up falling prey to their own beliefs. The Burari Deaths in India is another proof that education and sensibility have little to do with a person's beliefs. A sliver of hope in a time of desperation and a well-planned miracle can make people turn even on their loved ones.
Aside from terror and violence, the flag barriers of many religions have used it to fill their coffers. A person on his knees in the pews will give the last of his money to the church in hopes of gaining God's favor, while the pope and the priest will go from one country to another to "preach" and spread "God's words"—whatever that means. To encompass the title and all that has been said, know that this isn't about or against any religion but rather about the leaders who influence the fragile minds of their believers. The urge to believe in a higher purpose is intrinsic in most humans, and when they see a sign hinting at the truth of their beliefs, they stumble to meet their purpose halfway. A white-collar suddenly comes alive when he realizes he has more purpose in life than going to the office from 9 to 5.
Cletus McMurty raises similar questions in his book, "Is that really in the bible?" and explains his reasoning to hold religious leaders responsible for their many deprecating actions. Cletus unravels the harmful effects of entrusting knowledge in the hands of the few and then blindly following until you meet your end. Time and time again, in his book, McMurty points out why one should invest time and effort in studying the bible for a better understanding of its religion. In a way, he wants to say what has been the core of this piece: choose your religious leaders wisely and never lose sight of your beliefs.
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Why You Should Study the Bible?
Over the years, people have forgotten the distinction between religion and books at its core. They believe that by simply reading a book or exploring a new interpretation of any of the old texts, they'll lose sight of their primary beliefs. If not that, then the fear of going down a rabbit hole that would eat up their time and efforts day after day halts them in their pursuit. There is much to be said about the human fear that deters discovery.
Many Christians prefer to follow the interpretations and guidance of priests, scholars, and religious leaders, assuming that they would know better because of their education, status, and background. Even those who do not care for Christianity take help from scholarly notes to interpret the holy book. All things considered, one can confidently claim that most people's understanding of the Bible is simply borrowed and not acquired. Banking a lifetime of knowledge that was simply handed down to you in your early years (if you are a Christian) doesn't sound like something a sane and reasonable person would do.
The point is, studying a book that has been part of the world history for centuries should be a curious endeavor whether you decide to follow the religion of the book or not. Even when you are done, you don’t necessarily have to change your beliefs to feel accomplished. Just like any other book, if you manage to understand a few ideologies and agree with an instance or two, you'll be achieving something in the end.
It is imperative to remember that the Bible is a spiritual book, so whatever one learns from it is bound to strengthen the reader's spiritual essence. The various stories and orders mentioned in the book have the potential to provide you with clarity in your thoughts and help you discover your hidden motivations. Moreover, the text in many versions of the Bible is ancient, so by reading them, you are soaking the wisdom beyond your years.
The fact that many times the core beliefs and ideologies of the Bible are lost in the trustworthy interpretations of religious scholars is neither controversial nor outlandish. Even with an ordinary book, you’ll see a 1-star and 5-star review on the same site, proving the unreliability of individual perceptions. One book can change the life of many, and the same book can put another in a reading slump. One might ask that what if the Bible falls into the former category and turns out to be a 1-star read? Surely, a book that is loose in interpretations can't be anyone's guide? Yet, that is the catharsis of the Bible as it allows its readers to go beyond the norm and discover their own meaning of ancient words and ideologies. The freedom that comes with it proves that the book was never meant to be restrictive in its preaching but rather inclusive for everyone regardless of their background.
The idea of the disparity in interpretation and the importance of studying the Bible is explored in great detail in Cletis McMurty’s book, "Is that really in the Bible?" As the name suggests, the book has gone over and beyond to convince its readers why a person of any belief but especially a Christian, should read the Bible. McMurty’s arguments are easy to comprehend and take into consideration as he has used extensive research and strong prose to drive his idea home. Not once throughout the book, McMurty has shied away from including examples from his life to explain how studying the Bible had helped him understand the many nuances of life.
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Reading The Holy Bible Brings Us Closer To God Almighty
Every new morrow brings new challenges and predicaments in our daily lives, which ultimately add to our qualms. No matter what we do, how hard we try, or how ambitious we become – the flood of quandaries doesn’t seem to stop or end. The results of it make us feeble and vulnerable to accept and follow the bitter and harsh path, the one which leads us to ultimate darkness.
People think a lot about this but couldn’t decipher the simplest concept, which is the threshold of our contentment and bliss. Still, the reason remains unanswered as to what could become the ultimate and never-ending source of our happiness and satisfaction.
After discovering tons of different things, unearthing a variety of facts, and experiencing harsh and unspeakable situations – the only thing I dwell on is to form a close relationship with our Creator, i.e., God Almighty. And for establishing the unbreakable bond with our Heavenly Father, it is pivotal to read the Holy Bible, understand it, and implement the teachings in our daily lives to live on the path designed for us by our Father in Heaven.
How Can We Establish Strong Relation With God By Reading The Holy Bible?
The Holy Bible is the Word of God. It has the Holy Scriptures, which our Father in Heaven has written. And by reading it, we can establish our strong relationship with God. To learn more about this, let’s read the following.
Reading The Holy Bible Builds Strong Faith
Faith is an essential thing that God has asked His people to have in Him and His ways of doing things. No one can ever get closer to God without having strong faith and conviction in God. Several verses from the Holy Bible speaks about having faith in God for positive happenings, rewards, and glories in this world.
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”
(Romans 10: 17)
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
(Hebrews 11: 6)
Following The Right Path Pleases God
God has asked us all to have strong faith in God, and that can be built by reading, understanding, and implementing the teachings of the Holy Bible. Doing so helps us tremendously by saving us whenever we are set to do something wrong, guides us to follow the right path, and helps us overcome evil temptations.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”
(2 Timothy 3: 16)
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”
(Psalm 119: 105)
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
(Psalm 119: 11)
Reading The Holy Bible Creates A Heart For God
It is our duty to set regular timings to read the Holy Bible and pray. This is a bit of game-changing advice that you must take diligently and grow with a strong spirit. As you pursue this routine, you develop faith in God and His ways. And as time will pass, you will enjoy reading the Scriptures and implementing them in your life to connect with our Creator, God Almighty.
“You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.”
(John 5: 39-40))
Get Closer To God By Obeying The Teachings In The Holy Bible
God has sent the Holy Bible and the Holy Spirit to make us practice and implement His teachings in our lives for betterment. The Scriptures in the Holy Bible aren't only to read and feel better. The ultimate meaning and purpose of these Scriptures are to redefine our lives and follow the path that leads us to salvation, eternal life, and redemption. By doing so, we are doing what God Almighty has asked us and fulfilling his ways.
“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
(John 8: 31-32)
“My people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to hear your words, but they do not put them into practice. Their mouths speak of life, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain. Indeed, to them, you are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice."
(Ezekiel 33: 31-32)
“For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
(2 Corinthians 5: 14-15)
The Final Words
It is evidently clear that when we read the Holy Bible, we establish a secure connection and relation with God Almighty. This relation is free from any sort of selfless desires but is entirely based on the sanctity we get by forming the relationship.
About the Author:
'Cletus McMurtry, an exceptional and prominent author, shares the complete map that people can study in order to navigate through the complexities of their lives in his book, ‘Is That Really In The Bible?'
The author did not write the book with religious purposes but has described and elucidated the teachings, sayings, and lessons of the Holy Bible for every Christian in this world. According to him, the Holy Bible is a word of God and is the most notable and divine book to ever read and comprehend for our good. He crushed all the baseless claims of discrimination in this world and has expounded how any religious follower in this world can read the Holy Bible and get incredible benefits from it. The author also elucidated the exceptional and unmatchable positive results in our daily lives through reading the words of God and establishing the sacred relation.
Moreover, the writer expatiates on his real-life story and experiences and mentions God's call for maintaining close relationships with the teachings in the Holy Bible. In his life, he studied the Holy Bible like a manual to live a healthy and pious life. For readers who wish to connect with the word of God and the teachings, this book is a must-read for you.
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Consequences Of Our Actions – The Holy Bible’s Explanation
The choices we make, decisions we call, and actions we do all have their results or consequences. One way or another, we have to confront them and bear with the indefinite reality of whatsoever it is. In most conditions, they don’t look significant enough to us. But the more we dig in, the more we come to know how it breeds series of other actions that might completely alter, redefine, or reshape your life and the happenings in it.
We make hard choices when we are in menace or in the qualms of the tormenting times. But in that circumstances, sticking to do the right thing, be faithful to what God Almighty has asked us, and be committed to your belief, all this is not easy at all. Having a meaningful, exemplary, and inspiring life costs something more than we can even expect.
Consequences Of Our Actions – The Beginning
Consequences to our actions start back from the early days of the creation of this world. Let's eye on the example to get the best insights about it.
When our Father in Heaven, God, decides to create Adam because the inland area was barren, nothing would grow. God wanted someone to cultivate the soil and grow fields of grain and other crops. Then the Lord God erects artisan wells and causes them to rain on the land. And then, from Adam's rib, the first woman on earth was created. They lived piously in the Garden of Eden unto the serpent, craftier than the other animals, led the woman into temptation.
“Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day, God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy because, on it, God rested from all the work that he had done in creation. These were the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens. When no bush of the field was yet in the land, and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up—for the Lord God had not caused it to rain on the land, and there was no man to work the ground.”
(Genesis 2: 16-17)
Before Adam and Eve begin the world they were created for, i.e., nurturing the land, they get tempted by evil and get into trouble with God for eating the prohibited fruit, its consumption God had commanded against.
“To the woman, Lord God said, 'I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor, you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you."
(Genesis 3: 16)
“To Adam, our Father in Heaven said, ‘Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, you must not eat from it,' cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil, you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plans of the field. But the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground since from it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust, you will return."
(Genesis 3: 17-19)
"The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife Eve and clothed them. And the Lord God said, 'the man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and also take from the tree of life and eat, and live forever.' So the Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life."
(Genesis 3: 21-24)
More About Consequences And Actions In The Holy Bible
It is our firm belief that the Holy Bible is God’s words. So God Almighty has clearly instructed in the Holy Bible about the consequences, choices, and decisions and their actions in our lives.
In Galatians 6:7, we read,
"Do not be deceived; God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."
Additionally, in Romans 6: 23,
“For the wages of sin is death.”
“For he who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he has done, and that without partiality.”
(Colossians 3: 25)
"The prudent sees the evil and hides, but the naïve go on and are punished for it."
(Proverbs 22: 3)
"You shall speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'If anyone curses his God, then he will bear his sin."
(Leviticus 24: 15)
“But the man who is clean and is not on a journey, and yet neglects to observe the Passover, that person shall then be cut off from his people, for he did not present the offering of the Lord at its appointed time. That man will bear his sin.”
(Numbers 9: 13)
The Final Words
In a nutshell, we clearly get the instruction from the Holy Bible that to our actions, decisions, and choices, there are consequences. Thus we need to have faith in God and make our actions speak of honesty and truthfulness so that they don't become a problem for others. And thus, we will be saved from God's wrath on us.
About the Author:
'Cletus McMurtry, an exceptional and prominent author, shares the complete map that people can study in order to navigate through the complexities of their lives in his book, ‘Is That Really In The Bible?'
The author did not write the book with religious purposes but has described and elucidated the teachings, sayings, and lessons of the Holy Bible for every Christian in this world. According to him, the Holy Bible is a word of God and is the most notable and divine book to ever read and comprehend for our good. He crushed all the baseless claims of discrimination in this world and has expounded how any religious follower in this world can read the Holy Bible and get the incredible benefits from it. The author also elucidated the exceptional and unmatchable positive results in our daily lives through reading the words of God and establishing the sacred relation.
Moreover, the writer expatiates on his real-life story and experiences and mentions God's call for maintaining close relationships with the teachings in the Holy Bible. In his life, he studied the Holy Bible like a manual to live a healthy and pious life. For readers who wish to connect with the word of God and the teachings, this book is a must-read for you.
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How Does The Holy Bible Transform Our Lives?
We, human beings, have a lot of things in common. And out of all those, being able to change and transform is one. As years pass by, we experience different realities and face uncertain predicaments. And with these, we get to learn abundant in life and thus transform ourselves according to the situations. Whether it is the physical change or the mental change, it does affect everyone.
Some people are not adaptable and cannot handle the change well, whereas others thrive and seek new glories in the change. Discussing the change and transformation, we must know that the greatest transformation that happens in our life is by reading the Holy Bible. Without reading and comprehending it, our lives would continue to swing in the qualms of this world.
So here comes the question, what exactly do we know about the change and transformation in our lives by reading the Holy Bible? What sort of change does it offer us? Or how can it drive us to our salvation and redemption?
I guess most of us know a little about it. It might be no one has ever taught us about it, or neither we endeavored to learn about it. So, with this being in mind, the following write-up mainly focuses on how the Holy Bible transforms our lives and brings us to the right path.
The Holy Bible Holds The Power To Transform Everything
God Almighty has created this Universe in only six days. His commands can do miracles and bring the deadly disasters mankind has ever witnessed.
“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.”
(Hebrews 11:3)
“Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the Day of Judgment and destruction of the ungodly.”
(2 Peter 3:3-7)
The following verses evidently say that for God, the Master of this Universe has authority and control over everything. Why would it be hard for him to transform our lives?
All the troubles and challenges we face in our everyday lives are nothing in front of God. And when we set ourselves to read the word of God stated in the Holy Bible, we are establishing our connection with our Creator. Who with all his Mightiness would ease our ways and soothe our paths.
So for gaining the power right from the Heavenly Father, it is pivotally important to read, understand, and comprehend the Living Book, the Holy Bible. Take an example from this verse.
“But we all with unveiled face, beholding and reflecting like a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord Spirit.”
(2 Corinthians 3:18)
This verse doesn't really hold the meaning of being transformed as to see improvisation in our life. The transforming here means that we connect ourselves to God and behold the mighty glory of our Heavenly Father.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
(Romans 12:2)
Let's eye on some of the most potent Scriptures that say about transforming our lives by reading the Holy Bible and establishing our robust bond with our Creator.
“For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit, for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks."
(Luke 6: 43-45)
“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.”
(Ezekiel 36:26)
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
(Philippians 1:6)
The Final Words
In a nutshell, God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Bible all are connected to each other. The Holy Bible is a living book by which we establish our secure connection with Christ and God. When we read the Holy Bible, a connection is formed which is divine and sacred. This relation directly lets us talk to God through the anointed words.
About the Author:
'Cletus McMurtry, an exceptional and prominent author, shares the complete map that people can study in order to navigate through the complexities of their lives in his book, ‘Is That Really In The Bible?'
The author did not write the book with religious purposes but has described and elucidated the teachings, sayings, and lessons of the Holy Bible for every Christian in this world. According to him, the Holy Bible is a word of God and is the most notable and divine book to ever read and comprehend for our good. He crushed all the baseless claims of discrimination in this world and has expounded how any religious follower in this world can read the Holy Bible and get the incredible benefits from it. The author also elucidated the exceptional and unmatchable positive results in our daily lives through reading the words of God and establishing the sacred relation.
Moreover, the writer expatiates on his real-life story and experiences and mentions God's call for maintaining close relationships with the teachings in the Holy Bible. In his life, he studied the Holy Bible like a manual to live a healthy and pious life. For readers who wish to connect with the word of God and the teachings, this book is a must-read for you.
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How And Why The Holy Bible Is A Living Book?
The Word of God is a living word powerful, forever active, and ceases to do wonders. It is sharp, judges the heart, hears internal sayings, pierces the evil, and blends us into holiness and divinity.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart.”
(Hebrews 4: 12)
No other book can provide nourishment to our soul, help us grow spiritually, become stronger mentally, learn about the light and purpose of life, as we get to know from the Holy Book, sent to us by our Heavenly Father. The Holy Bible sanctifies and cleanses our souls for getting salvation and redemption. Moreover, the Word of God is a powerful and undefeated weapon that helps us subdue or eliminate evils.
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall never pass away.”
(Luke 21: 33 & Matthew 24: 35)
"The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the Word of our God shall endure forever."
(Isiah 40: 8)
The Holy Bible Is A Living Book
One thing we all are aware of is that the Holy Bible is a living book. No other book in this world can provide us the right amount of knowledge and spirituality we get from the Holy Bible.
The Holy Bible is the Word of God, our Heavenly Father, who sent the Holy Spirit and the Holy Bible to bring us to light. The sacred learnings, comprehending the miraculous works of Jesus Christ and understanding the essential life truths, all we get is from the Holy Bible.
Our Heavenly Father has authored every word in the Holy Bible and does not subject to any change or interpretation.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
(2 Timothy 3: 16-17)
“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”
(1 Thessalonians 2: 13)
The Word of God Almighty is pure, perfect, and speaks of the truth.
“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one.”
(1 John 5: 7)
“As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”
(Psalm 18: 30)
“We faithfully preach the truth. God’s power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense.”
(2 Corinthians 6: 7)
“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,”
(Ephesians 1: 13)
The Word of God is for our everlasting learning.
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
(Isiah 40: 8)
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide, we might have hope.”
(Romans 15: 4)
The Word of God is living, and it gives us eternal life.
“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”
(1 Peter 1:23)
“He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.”
(Deuteronomy 8: 3)
The Final Takeaway
These verses from the Holy Bible tell us that the Word of God is pure, speaks of truth, and is essential for our living and finding salvation. It is not something written and interpreted by old and dead people. Whatever is mentioned in the Holy Bible is true to the core, and this is why it is the only Living Book in the world.
About the Author:
'Cletus McMurtry, an exceptional and prominent author, shares the complete map that people can study in order to navigate through the complexities of their lives in his book, ‘Is That Really In The Bible?'
The author did not write the book with religious purposes but has described and elucidated the teachings, sayings, and lessons of the Holy Bible for every Christian in this world. According to him, the Holy Bible is a word of God and is the most notable and divine book to ever read and comprehend for our good. He crushed all the baseless claims of discrimination in this world and has expounded how any religious follower in this world can read the Holy Bible and get the incredible benefits from it. The author also elucidated the exceptional and unmatchable positive results in our daily lives through reading the words of God and establishing the sacred relation.
Moreover, the writer expatiates on his real-life story and experiences and mentions God's call for maintaining close relationships with the teachings in the Holy Bible. In his life, he studied the Holy Bible like a manual to live a healthy and pious life. For readers who wish to connect with the word of God and the teachings, this book is a must-read for you.
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