#((righteousness is for the foolish and the arrogant))

[everlastiingiimmortals]

give me a Jing Yuan fueled by spite. give me a Jing Yuan whose words absolutely drip with venomous sarcasm. give me a Jing Yuan who speaks with fangs bared. give me a Jing Yuan who looks down at you like he just might be considering how to best rip into your throat and tear it out. give me a Jing Yuan so fucking angry the static in the air causes metal to spark.

Jing Yuan is so good and so generous and so kind, give me a Jing Yuan that shows more of his negative aspects bc ohhhhh my god he is so done with everything I think he deserves to snap a little I want a scary Jing Yuan I want a bitter Jing Yuan do u get me

#//immortal; (OOC) #//wishing star; (WISHLIST) #((ive been talking with Starry and Luna and the more i develop him the more jy becomes nihilistic behind closed doors)) #((everything he does is out of spite of SOMETHING in the world. even his love is out of spite towards the universe)) #((is he incredibly gentle and loving and selfless? yes. is he also sarcastic and can clearly foresee the eventual end of the xianzhou?)) #((also yes)) #((his selflessness also leads him to be morally grey and i find that SOOOOOOOOO interesting OUGH)) #((in the face of fate what does morality matter? ough)) #((and ive also been chatting with other ppl (hi A) which makes me realize my jy's being pulled 3 ways by 3 different aeons...)) #((hough ough oughffhdgfhdh can he catch a fucking break the answer is never)) #((hes so tired and his tiredness fuels his spite and his spite fuels his love and his love fuels every uncomfortable decision he makes)) #((righteousness? he laughs at that. hes a hero yes and he tends to stand with good)) #((but in terms of like a dnd alignment scale he is NOT lawful good not in the SLIGHTEST)) #((neutral good at best)) #((righteousness is for the foolish and the arrogant)) #((what matters is making the decisions you wont regret. let history call you what it wants; history is a tinted lens)) #((I HAVE SO MANY THOUGHTS AND THEYRE SO DISJOINTED IM SORRY FOR BABBLING IN THE TAGS))

[kdmiller55]

Falling in Love with the Sound of Your Own Voice

1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. 2 Then Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, burned with anger. He burned with anger at Job because he justified himself rather than God. 3 He burned with anger also at Job’s three friends because they had found no answer, although they had declared Job to be in the wrong. 4 Now Elihu had…

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#arrogance #Elihu #encouragement #folly #foolishness #God #Job #Job 32 #kind words #patience #pride #prideful #self-righteousness #silence is golden #speaking for God #the tongue #wisdom

[the-cryptographer]

I am constantly driven insane by the differences in how Anders and Merrill were treated by the narrative.

Like Anders and Merrill are both reactionaries to Chantry-led imperialism and genocide, re: mages and elves respectively. They have different priorities, but ultimately both are sociopolitical undesirables trying to find ways to push back against the reigning theocracy that is trying to eradicate a mix of their people and culture. Like, yeah, Anders is a bit more actively in the trenches of trying to get people out of the Circle, whereas Merrill is a bit more on the research and development side of things with the Eluvian (it boggles my mind that nobody in DA2 seemed to recognise what the Eluvian can and will be used for, and it was a bit of a relief when Blackwall in Trespasser finally puts to words how they can be used to mobilise troops and evacuate civilians). But by the end of DA2 as confirmed in DAI, Merrill is actively involved in doing social outreach with Alienage elves, which is basically what Anders was doing in Darktown at the start of his run in DA2. And just- beyond that they are both terribly proud, insecure, arrogant, stubborn, passionate people who try to protect themselves from the (deadly) scrutiny of others by feigning harmlessness and moral righteousness.

But the way the narrative treats this, like- I think a lot of people at this point recognise the ableism in how both these characters are treated, but I’m not sure how much people see the sexism. Like- there’s this persistent message in the game that, when Merrill attempts politically subversive actions, she is misguided and needs to be taken back under the wing of someone like Hawke who can steer her straight. Which is so very obviously paternalistic imho regardless of what gender Hawke you’re playing. Versus Anders, whose politically subversive actions are the centre of the plot by the third act and are treated with utmost seriousness and severity. The game constantly reinforces the message that downplaying Merrill’s work and goals is the correct course of action, while doing so for Anders’s is painted as ultimately foolish, and enables his ‘betrayal’ of Hawke and Varric at the end of the game. It’s like, when he attempts to disrupt the political order of the city, he’s dangerous and needs to be put down. When she attempts the same, she needs to be herded back into the kitchen.

Like obviously I don’t think either of these are the right approach when Anders and Merrill are pushing back against what is the equivalent of the Vatican at the height of the crusades. But these characters are just so similar and imho really deserved the full narrative foils treatment, and it drives me absolutely insane that nobody on the writing team wanted to treat Merrill seriously enough or treat Anders humanely enough to see that.

#and the fandom overall is not better #i mean there are differences too like Merr is the best and Anders is an obnoxious white boy #but the similarities outweigh the differences imho #merders #merrill sabrae #anders #lork dragon age opinions #dragon age

[grimalkinmessor]

Light's end has always bothered me for multiple reasons (the biggest of which is it not actually being his fault that he lost therefore robbing me of a greater poetic justice but you can't win 'em all), but I think one nobody really talks about is that,,,Light wasn't afraid to die.

Well—he WAS, at the beginning, but part of the reason I'm so obsessed with his relationship with Ryuk is because Ryuk's existence was a constant threat to Light's life. And yet Light never once seemed afraid of him, or tried to cozy up to him, or even attempted manipulate Ryuk into doing things for him. Sure, he bribed him sometimes into going along with his plans, but he was friends with Ryuk. Or—as close to friends as I assume a Light Yagami and a Shinigami can get.

But before Light meets Ryuk, he 100% believes that he's going to die. His frenzy those first few days can be attributed not to any moral righteousness, but to a desperate sort of resignation. Light thinks that he's sold his soul after killing those first two men, so instead of destroying the Death Note, he immediately sets out to make as big of an impact as possible. He wants to go out with a bang! He wants to be remembered! Light is afraid of death in those first days—but he also comes to terms with it somewhere between killing Otoharada and Ryuk showing up. He was ready to go with Ryuk quietly if he was there to take his life or his soul.

But then—he learns that he's not going to die.

The face of a boy excited and relieved.

Light learns that there are no consequences to using the Death Note.

THIS is when he starts getting cocky, when he starts to actually convince himself of all that moral stuff he spouts.

But he's still not afraid of death.

Oh he's afraid of being caught, for sure, and after L humiliated him on live television, he might've even been afraid of execution. Because he'd seen firsthand just how quickly L could turn the tables on him, how he could make Kira look foolish. And Light definitely does not want to be remembered as foolish.

I don't think Light was afraid of actually DYING though, because when Ryuk says "You know I could just kill you", Light laughs. Literally laughing in the face of death. Light KNOWS that Ryuk will eventually kill him, but as long as he goes down the way he wants—on HIS terms—it's fine. Ryuk claiming that he'd be the one to finally end Light might've even been a relief, considering how Light's mind works. A god can only be killed by another god, etc. etc. 'Killed By A Real-life Shinigami' sounds metal as FUCK. Top-tier way to die if you're as much of a gloryhound as Light.

And one thing that irks me is that—the five year gap kind of,,,,takes that, from Light. Light spends so long on top of the world with no real challenge that by the time that Near and Mello show up, he's far more arrogant than he was when he was up against L. Light is, once more, afraid of death. He's lost that tolerance he built up in those pivotal first few days, and he goes out, not in a blaze of glory like he wanted, but clawing and pleading to live like a dog.

Light lost his recklessness, his impatience, his acceptance of the inevitable because he believed that he could now change the inevitable—all somewhere in that five year time skip.

This makes him less likely to get caught, yes, but it also takes away that—that teenage dauntlessness that he had at the beginning. Pre-skip Light feared L and L alone. Only the idea of being caught by someone who could truly tear him down frightened him. Not even death compared.

And I suppose that Light's spiralling at the end is a sort of poetic justice in this case?? But it's not the one I wanted.

I wanted Light's recklessness to blow up in his face. I wanted his carefully curated plans ruined by his own impatient hand. I wanted him to go down much as he probably first intended—in a blaze of glory. I wanted his fall to be explosive and terrifying to the audience. A moral of the story that shoots you right in the chest and really makes you think.

Instead he was reduced to just,,,,another criminal, begging for his life.

Which, yes, I suppose, is also a message in and of itself (all evil figures throughout history have only ever been human, have only ever been men that bleed red at the end of the day, and nothing they've ever done or said will change that), but I also find that....exceedingly boring.

#death note #grim rants #yagami light #light yagami #death note meta #i guess...? #im just venting my frustrations with the ending #again #i know the five year skip was supposed to show us how fast kira consumed the world and how quickly corruption spreads #but also yOU COULDVE BROUGHT NEAR AND MELLO IN WAY EARLIER #WHEN LIGHT WAS STILL THE DUMBASS THAT BUILDS FLASHBOMBS IN HIS DESKS #it wouldve so much funnier plzzzz #and more interesting in my opinion #23 yo light was kinda more of a bitch not gonna lie #like wheres the man that orchestrated a bus jacking to get one man's name?? #and then met that man in person again and made him kill his own comrades???? #WHERE'D MY ARROGANT/DESPERATE LITTLE HASTY BOY GO #he went from a zim to a mr burns and i disliked it greatly thank you

[yairosakaki]

MAGICAL Order ✩ RikaPure (MAGICAL秩序✩リカピュア) Rough TL

As said in the title, this is a rough translation of Rikai’s 2nd break song (rough being I haven’t had this proofread, and am a beginner at translating). I don’t usually translate songs, so the wording might be awkward, and may contain inaccuracies.

TL Notes;

- Rikai uses the word 煩悩 (bonnō) which is basically a term for negative emotion. It’s from buddhism and it refers to the 5 earthly desires (those being greed, anger, foolishness, arrogance, and doubt from what I’ve searched up) I just write it as ‘earthly desire’ though.

- Hyu Hyuu (ヒュヒュー) is an onomatopeia of whistling. I believe it’s supposed to be a whistle of encouragement here. I might be wrong, though.

- ‘Raison d’être’ means ‘reason for existence’.

- Fumiya’s line ‘It’s all about Rikai/Understanding’ holds a double meaning, since Rikai’s kanji for his name also means ‘Understanding’.

————————————————

Unwavering Purity! RikaPure of Order!

MAGICAL✩RikaPure! (So sparkly!)

Retaliating against earthly desires!

RikaPure of Order! (Feeling giddy!)

Justice Boy! (YAY!)

A gem of incorruptibility

Protecting mankind is what the Gods will me to do

The evolution of a pure-hearted boy (WOW!)

into a magic-user (Transform!)

Chosen as the moral leader

To all fools (PP!) You can awaken (PP!)

Give me all of your love! (Woooo!)

Harmony protected by justice and law

Makes the world burst into happiness with a smile (Happy!)

To the immoral evil that runs rampant in this world

I will deliver a crushing blow on it myself

Charge up my fighting power!

RikaPure of Order! (Let’s go, Let’s go!)

Miracle Boy

It is okay that I am shunned (Yes!)

This is my own path

Slashing insolence in two with only one stroke (GO!)

Superior Heavenly Punishment! (Put your whole heart in it!)

The descending leader of purity is here

Those with immoral desires (Hyu Hyuu) will be burnt down (Hyu Hyuu)

And become a scorching hell-fire (Good luck!!)

A melody united by intelligence and courage

Holds a sacred ground where rhythm is undisturbed (We are!)

Judging insincerity, punishing indiscretion

And purging disorder

Is my unbeatable raison d’être

How stunning! (Terra)

The finest-quality sexy~

We’re counting on you!

We’ve got your back!

I’ll follow your lead!

It’s all about Rikai/Understanding.

Let us proceed and venture after the other side of the rainbow

Aim at the ultimate cosmos, the place of vows

Harmony protected by justice and law

Makes the world burst into happiness with a smile (Happy!)

Stick through one path of truth and sincerity

And we can all be friends

Charge up my fighting power! (Wooo yeah!)

MAGICAL✩RikaPure! (So sparkly!)

Retaliating against earthly desires!

RikaPure of Order! (Feeling giddy!)

Justice Boy! (YAY!)

Righteousness reigns… supreme!

#charisma house #rough translation #please feel free to correct me #rikai kusanagi #this was made because a friend asked me to tl it for them but why not post it

[ascendead]

❝  i have a better idea. i will do as i please.  ❞ to gromph from his favorite brother jarl

A pittance for every time he's faced the tail end of his brother's righteousness, a capricious peacock with a lifetime of adventure weaved into myth. The offence riles against his nerves, and all good sense of an impending death fizzles out to a stop when he remembers just who it is he's talking to.

" No doubt. "

Teetering on the edge between arrogance and pride, a mask of compliancy smoothes habitually over his features, and he's once again just a man in service to a fucking fool, which seemed his curse no matter if it was above or below; or if it was to those whose culture granted them merit, or if it was another adventurer. Already, his time alone with the other weighs heavy upon his social graces and with a practiced flick of his wrist, a decant of vintage wine appears. Amber eyes gloss over at the other's declaration, and he scoffs, rolls his eyes, and settles the wine before them both as though they were cheering to Jarlaxle's better judgement; as it always must be whenever he makes his rounds to Luskan.

" You'll hear no argument from me when it concerns the gambles you make with your life. "

Preparations had already been in the place when he sensed the other step past one of his wards a few miles out. The tower of Luskan is quiet, a ward of noise cancelling cast around this room, including also a spell that would drop the foolish soul who dared to disturb them at the front of the Tower, disoriented and dizzy -- he opted not to include a final rap to the wrists. He didn't want attention drawn to him. Especially when it concerned a visit from @meetsorcery. Two silver goblets filled to the brim with vintage for them both and left the bottle between them. He settles down in the heavy oak chair beside him, savouring his sip, enjoying the prelude to chaos Jarlaxle seemed to hunt after if it weren't already nipping at his heels.

" You don't pay me in visits just to tell me what's on your mind, or rather, lack of--- "

He'd been alive far longer than Jarlaxle, though less beloved, but more highly valued as an extension to the bearer. A scion of magic, the kind that he didn't mind selling his soul off to highest bidder if it had an equal value to him. His eyes narrow, and his head cants in deliberation,

" Unless you've finally grown even more feeble-minded. "

He hums, and leans back in his seat, enjoys his drink once more.

" All the magic in the world can't compensate for that, unfortunately, but for you, Jarlaxle? I'm doubling the price, and perhaps, something can be arranged. "

#| $ ▐ asks‚ #meetsorcery

[officialyourdailyinspiration]

The Excellence of Wisdom

1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding give forth her voice?

2 On the top of high places by the way, at the cross-paths she taketh her stand.

3 Beside the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors, she crieth aloud.

4 Unto you, men, I call, and my voice is to the sons of man:

5 O ye simple, understand prudence; and ye foolish, understand sense.

6 Hear, for I will speak excellent things, and the opening of my lips shall be right things.

7 For my palate shall meditate truth, and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing tortuous or perverse in them.

9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold:

11 for wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things that may be desired are not equal to it.

12 I wisdom dwell [with] prudence, and find the knowledge [which cometh] of reflection.

13 The fear of Jehovah is to hate evil; pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth do I hate.

14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am intelligence; I have strength.

15 By me kings reign, and rulers make just decrees;

16 by me princes rule, and nobles, all the judges of the earth.

17 I love those that love me; and they that seek me early shall find me.

18 Riches and honour are with me; durable wealth and righteousness.

19 My fruit is better than fine gold, yea, than pure gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

20 I walk in the path of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:

21 that I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasuries.

22 Jehovah possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.

23 I was set up from eternity, from the beginning, before the earth was.

24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth, when there were no fountains abounding with water.

25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth;

26 while as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the beginning of the dust of the world.

27 When he prepared the heavens I was there; when he ordained the circle upon the face of the deep;

28 when he established the skies above, when the fountains of the deep became strong;

29 when he imposed on the sea his decree that the waters should not pass his commandment, when he appointed the foundations of the earth:

30 then I was by him [his] nursling, and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;

31 rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth, and my delights [were] with the sons of men.

32 And now, sons, hearken unto me, and blessed are they that keep my ways:

33 hear instruction and be wise, and refuse it not.

34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.

35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and obtaineth favour of Jehovah;

36 but he that sinneth against me doeth violence to his own soul: all they that hate me love death. — Proverbs 8 | 1890 Darby Bible (DARBY) The Darby Translation of the Holy Bible is in the public domain. Cross References: Genesis 1:2; Exodus 12:7; 1 Samuel 2:3; Job 15:7; Job 26:10; Job 28:15; Job 28:18-19; Job 29:7; Psalm 23:3; Proverbs 1:4; Proverbs 1:20-21; Proverbs 1:31; Proverbs 3:13; Proverbs 3:19; proverbs 4:1; Proverns 9:3; Proverbs 10:22; Proverbs 22:20; Ecclesiastes 7:19; Isaiah 40:22; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 28:18; Luke 11:28; John 1:1-2; John 8:14; John 13:1; John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 1:24; Philippians 2:15; James 1:5; Revelation 3:14

#blessing #wisdom #first of God's works #Proverbs 8 #Book of Proverbs #Old Testament #DARBY #1890 Darby Bible

[philosopher-blog]

في قلب كل إنسان، عالم خفي يحوي أعماقا لا يعلم بها إلا الله، صاحب القدرة على كشف ما في قلوبنا وفهم أسرارنا دون أن ننطق بها. هذا العلم الذي يحمله الله بقلوب الناس يجعلنا نتأمل في حالنا ونرى أنه لا يخفى عليه شيء، حتى ندرك أن الخيانة والنفاق لن تكون إلا سفاهة وضعفًا أمام حكمته البالغة.

إن الحالة الفاسدة التي يمكن أن يصل إليها الإنسان باعتقاده أنه يستطيع خداع الله ورسوله هي حالة من الجهل والغرور يجب التوبة منها. دعوة الله لنا بالتوبة تبين لنا رحمته وعطفه، فإنه يمهل ولا يهمل، يرغب في هداية عباده والرجوع إليه حتى وإن كانوا على ضلال.

فالمرء إذا وجد نقاط الخير في قلبه، وأُبصر أن طريق التوبة مفتوح أمامه، يكتشف أن لديه فرصة لإصلاح ذاته والعودة إلى ربه بقلب نقي وصافٍ. ومن هنا تكمن رحمة وإحسان الله تعالى التي لا تنضب، دائما مُتسامحة ومفتوحة أمام كل من ينوي التوبة والعودة إلى درب الخير والصلاح.

وعندما نرى كيف أعطانا الله الفرصة للتوبة والرجوع، ندرك أهمية عظمة رسالة النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم، الذي أمر بالتوبة والعفو والرحمة حتى في أصعب ال��روف. يجب علينا الإصغاء لنصائحه وكلماته البليغة التي تهدف إلى توجيهنا نحو الطريق الصحيح والتوبة المقبولة.

وإذا استمر الإنسان في الإصرار على الخطأ وعدم التوبة، فإنه يلقى به نحو الهلاك الذي لا راد له سوى الندم والعتاب. لذلك يجب أن نفكر جيدًا قبل الإصرار على الخطأ ونعيش في ضوء توجيهات الله ورسوله لكي لا نكون من الهالكين.

فلنتأمل آيات القرآن ونبحث في أعماق قلوبنا عن ما يحتاج إلى تقويم وتصحيح، ولنعود إلى الله بصدق ونيّة صافية في التوبة، ولنتلمس طريق الفلاح من توجيهات رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم، لكي نعبر مخاضات وبريق شياطين الانس والجن لنسلم من الضلالات ونصل إلى ساحات الرضا والسعادة التي لا تنضب.

In the heart of every human being, there is a hidden world that contains depths that only God knows, who has the ability to reveal what is in our hearts and understand our secrets without us uttering them. This knowledge that God carries in the hearts of people makes us contemplate our situation and see that nothing is hidden from Him, until we realize that betrayal and hypocrisy will be nothing but foolishness and weakness in the face of His great wisdom.

The corrupt state that a person can reach by believing that he can deceive God and His Messenger is a state of ignorance and arrogance that must be repented of. God’s call to us to repent shows us His mercy and compassion. He gives respite and does not neglect. He desires to guide His servants and return to Him, even if they are astray.

If a person finds points of goodness in his heart, and sees that the path of repentance is open before him, he discovers that he has an opportunity to reform himself and return to his Lord with a pure and clear heart. Hence lies the inexhaustible mercy and benevolence of God Almighty, always tolerant and open to everyone who intends to repent and return to the path of goodness and righteousness.

When we see how God gave us the opportunity to repent and return, we realize the importance of the greatness of the message of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, who commanded repentance, forgiveness, and mercy even in the most difficult circumstances. We must listen to his advice and eloquent words that aim to direct us towards the right path and acceptable repentance.

If a person continues to insist on making a mistake and not repenting, he will be thrown into ruin, for which there will be no recourse but regret and reproach. Therefore, we must think carefully before insisting on a mistake and live in light of the directives of God and His Messenger so that we do not perish.

Let us contemplate the verses of the Qur’an and search in the depths of our hearts for what needs to be evaluated and corrected. Let us return to God with sincerity and pure intention in repentance. Let us seek the path to success from the directives of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, so that we can cross the throes and sparks of the demons of mankind and the jinn so that we may be delivered from misguidance and reach the arenas of contentment and happiness. That is inexhaustible.

[lettersfromgod]

"...Who among the nations fears Me? Who among this modern generation, among all these multitudes of perverse and vile people, revere My name? Who, among this great multitude, trembles in fear at the coming of The Lord?! And who among the mighty shall be able to stand, when the wrath of God is revealed from Heaven?! Therefore repent, and establish My way before Me, says The Lord God, and I shall also establish you! For I am The Lord, and I shall establish justice in all the earth! Why, O peoples of the earth, do you stand proud? Why do you set your faces like stone, and resolve in your hearts to fight against Me? Behold, I have set My face against YOU, and resolve in My heart to abase you, until the pride of man is bowed down and the arrogance of man is utterly humiliated, as it is written![2] Be bowed down therefore, O most wicked generation! Humble yourselves and repent, and seek now The Righteousness of The Lord, that you may live and not die! Peoples of the earth, how long shall you court death and desire abomination?! Your hearts are full of adultery; you cease not from lying down with sin! Behold, you have joined yourselves to the grave and With death you have made your agreement![3]... Foolish people, see now the Word of The Lord, Open your ears and listen to the voice of The Lord your God, And establish My way before Me, that you may live and not die... For there is no other God besides Me; A just God and a Savior, there is none besides Me[4]... Says The Lord." 2.  Isaiah 2:17 3.  Isaiah 28:15 4.  Isaiah 45:21 Excerpt from: https://www.thevolumesoftruth.com/Establish_My_Way_Before_Me,_Says_The_Lord Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zb0QVkFdwq0&list=PLE8FlkxQPQkP4Ljrix_obl1uYSx1VNyqE&index=32

#TheVolumesofTruth #god #wrathofgod #wordofgod #lettersfromgod #thussaysthelord #repent #comingofthelord #justice #judgment #nations #pride #arrogance #wicked #death #abomination #humble #righteousness #establish #Savior #YAHUWAH #YahuShua #Jesus #truth

[therealtruthalways]

”For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen. Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.“

‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬-‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

[childofchrist1983]

When we lean on our own wisdom and understanding, we fall prey to the sin of arrogance. Humans tend to be self-centered. We think we know best, in all things. Over and over again, we are exhorted in Holy Scripture to trust in God. He always knows what is best for us and is faithful to direct our path.

Our best bet is to let God be the one to tell us what to do. Our own understanding just doesn't cut it. We have to step out of our own way and let God do the leading. Anything else is foolish pride. Both Jews and Gentiles of every nation are fallen and sunk in sin to the point that there is "none that understand, none who seek after God" (Romans 3:11). We cannot trust in the merits of mere men or in our own righteousness to be declared just in the courtroom of God.

God has given us rules to live by in His Word - the Holy Bible - that will bring us peace and happiness in our lives if we only are willing to follow them. Begin and end your days by seeking Him in prayer and His Holy Word and walking in His Holy Spirit and its fruits and exalting His holy name! Keep the faith and keep moving forward in your faith with Jesus! May the LORD help us to be faithful to His will and Holy Word. May we never forget to thank Him for all this and everything He does and has done for us! May we never forget who He is, nor forget who we are in Christ and that God is always with us! What a wonderful Lord, God, Savior and King we have in Jesus Christ! What a loving Father we have found in the Almighty God! What a wonderful God we serve! His will be done!

Thanks and glory be to God! Blessed be the name of the LORD! Hallelujah and Amen!

Father God Almighty, Lord Jesus, help me to be humble and let You lead me. Help me to not depend on my own understanding, but Yours, and to acknowledge You in all my ways so that You can direct my path.

We are in awe of You, O Lord. No one and nothing compares to Your might and majesty. May we live a life of humble service and praise for You and Your Kingdom, my LORD, my God, my Savior and my King!

May we seek You and Your Holy Word as well as the peace and all the fruits of the Holy Spirit today and everyday. Help us to walk in a way that is worthy of this calling You have guided us to. Help us to live this new life walking in Your ways and will and giving You praise for making it possible. Help us to value the true and eternal riches more highly than the passing and deceitful riches of Earth. Help me to walk in Your Holy Spirit, to seek You and Your will. Help our thoughts to turn to You in the little pauses and intermediate moments of this day and everyday. Help us live each day to glorify You so that when You return, we are ready. I cannot wait for Your return! Come soon, Lord Jesus!

May we worship You all our days, O Lord. May our lives show the world Your light and Truth and that You are a loving God and Heavenly Father who delights in showing love and mercy. May we all be humbly and faithfully honored and excited to worship, glorify and serve You daily and to do Your will. You have been so good to us, far more than we as wretched sinners deserve. You are so good! So wonderful! Forever and always!

Thank you, O Lord, for all Your creation and Your miraculous ways. Thank You for being our stronghold and my refuge. Thank you for seeing us as worth the sacrifice. Thank you for sustaining us, loving us and defining us according to Your will and love for us. Thank you for making sure we are taken care of. Thank you for being the best friend we could ever have! Thank you for Your endless mercy and love that has saved us. Thank you for always protecting us and providing for us and for Your Spirit to help us when we are in need. Thank you for giving us a chance to be saved from our sin and spend eternity with You. Thank you for adopting us as part of Your family in Heaven and making us one of Your own. Thank you for being our present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). Thank you for always being near and for loving us. Thank you for giving us a reason to love others and so many more reasons to love, praise, serve and follow You. Thank you for Your selfless and sinless sacrifice. Thank you for Your guidance and protection. Thank you for Your Truth and light. Thank you for Your wisdom and strength and grace. Thank you for giving life to the world and to us. You give and take away – And we thank you for it. Thank you for everything! Your will be done! Blessed be Your mighty name! To You and Your Kingdom be the glory forevermore! In Your name I humbly pray, Amen and amen

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

28th June >> Mass Readings (USA)

Saint Irenaeus, Bishop, Martyr

    on 

Tuesday, Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time.

Tuesday, Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Liturgical Colour: Red)

(Readings for the feria (Tuesday))

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Tuesday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading

Amos 3:1-8; 4:11-12

The Lord God speaks - who will not prophesy!

Hear this word, O children of Israel, that the LORD pronounces over you, over the whole family that I brought up from the land of Egypt:

You alone have I favored,    more than all the families of the earth; Therefore I will punish you    for all your crimes.

Do two walk together    unless they have agreed? Does a lion roar in the forest    when it has no prey? Does a young lion cry out from its den    unless it has seized something? Is a bird brought to earth by a snare    when there is no lure for it? Does a snare spring up from the ground    without catching anything? If the trumpet sounds in a city,    will the people not be frightened? If evil befalls a city,    has not the LORD caused it? Indeed, the Lord GOD does nothing    without revealing his plan    to his servants, the prophets.

The lion roars –    who will not be afraid! The Lord GOD speaks –    who will not prophesy!

I brought upon you such upheaval    as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah:    you were like a brand plucked from the fire; Yet you returned not to me,    says the LORD.

So now I will deal with you in my own way, O Israel!    and since I will deal thus with you,    prepare to meet your God, O Israel.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm

Psalm 5:4b-6a, 6b-7, 8

R/ Lead me in your justice, Lord.

At dawn I bring my plea expectantly before you. For you, O God, delight not in wickedness;    no evil man remains with you;    the arrogant may not stand in your sight.

R/ Lead me in your justice, Lord.

You hate all evildoers;    you destroy all who speak falsehood; The bloodthirsty and the deceitful    the LORD abhors.

R/ Lead me in your justice, Lord.

But I, because of your abundant mercy,    will enter your house; I will worship at your holy temple    in fear of you, O LORD.

R/ Lead me in your justice, Lord.

Gospel Acclamation

Psalm 130:5

Alleluia, alleluia. I trust in the LORD; my soul trusts in his word. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

Matthew 8:23-27

Jesus rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm.

As Jesus got into a boat, his disciples followed him. Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by waves; but he was asleep. They came and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us!  We are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?” Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm. The men were amazed and said, “What sort of man is this, whom even the winds and the sea obey?”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

----------------------------------------------

Saint Irenaeus, Bishop, Martyr

(Liturgical Colour: Red)

(Readings for the memorial)

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Tuesday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading

2 Timothy 2:22b-26

A slave of the Lord should be gentle with everyone, correcting with kindness.

Beloved: Pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord with purity of heart. Avoid foolish and ignorant debates, for you know that they breed quarrels. A slave of the Lord should not quarrel, but should be gentle with everyone, able to teach, tolerant, correcting opponents with kindness. It may be that God will grant them repentance that leads to knowledge of the truth, and that they may return to their senses out of the Devil’s snare, where they are entrapped by him, for his will.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm

Psalm 37:3-4, 5-6, 30-31

R/ The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

Trust in the LORD and do good    that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security. Take delight in the LORD,    and he will grant you your heart’s requests.

R/ The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

Commit to the LORD your way;    trust in him, and he will act. He will make justice dawn for you like the light;    bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.

R/ The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

The mouth of the just man tells of wisdom    and his tongue utters what is right. The law of his God is in his heart,    and his steps do not falter.

R/ The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

Gospel Acclamation

John 15:9b, 5b

Alleluia, alleluia. Remain in my love, says the Lord; whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

John 17:20-26

I wish that those you have given me may be with me.

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said: “Holy Father, I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[livingwellnessblog]

Proverbs 8: Wisdom’s Call

Proverbs 8

Wisdom’s Call

Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? At the highest point along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gate leading into the city, at the entrance, she cries aloud:

 “To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it. Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse.

To the discerning all of them are right; they are upright to those who have found knowledge.

Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

 “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power. By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just; by me princes govern, and nobles—all who rule on earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me and making their treasuries full.

 “The LORD brought me forth as the first of his works,before his deeds of old; I was formed long ages ago, at the very beginning, when the world came to be. When there were no watery depths, I was given birth, when there were no springs overflowing with water;  before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth,  before he made the world or its fields or any of the dust of the earth.  I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep, when he established the clouds above and fixed securely the fountains of the deep, when he gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep his command, and when he marked out the foundations of the earth.

Then I was constantly at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind.

“Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it.

Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.  For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD.

But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.”

#proverbs #bible #Jesus #wisdom

[cmcsmen]

Weekly Catholic Man Moment: The Noble Calling of Catholic Manhood

Catholic Man Moment

Fourth Sunday of Easter April 21, 2024

The Noble Calling of Catholic Manhood

Embracing Catholic Masculinity

The Gospel of St. John 10:11-18 speaks of Christ as the ultimate Good Shepherd, a figure that has long resonated with the hearts of men. We see this depicted in one of the earliest paintings of Christ found in the ancient Roman catacombs, where he tenderly carries a wounded sheep upon his shoulders. This powerful image of love stirs something deep within us, for we do not mind being compared to sheep in this context. Indeed, there is a certain innocence and simplicity in these gentle creatures, but also a hint of foolishness. Is it not a reflection of the majority of men, even those who openly oppose Christ? Are we not like sheep in our pride and arrogance, believing ourselves to be all-knowing and self-sufficient?

The story of Christ as our protector and guide has a timeless appeal. It speaks to the deepest nature of man - the need for guidance and protection. As humans, we are like sheep, with limited understanding and a tendency to think we know it all. But just like a sheep who strays from the shepherd, a man who rejects the wisdom of God and His Church is like a lost soul in the wilderness. True strength and masculinity lie in embracing the divine guidance and protection of the Good Shepherd.

The Noble Calling of Catholic Manhood

As humans, we can often be as wayward as sheep, straying from the path of righteousness towards forbidden pastures. But fear not, for we have a Shepherd who guides us with unwavering patience and boundless love. His voice echoes through the winds, beckoning us back to the safety of his flock, even in our moments of wandering and weakness. Through missions, retreats, and even in the midst of our trials, his grace is ever-present, ready to guide us home. How fortunate are we to have such a watchful and caring shepherd for our souls?

Embodied in a Catholic man is the spirit of selfless devotion, following in the footsteps of the Good Shepherd himself. This bond of faith goes beyond mere actions, for a man who truly loves God must also love his fellow man and seek to share his blessings with others. Knowing that heaven's gates are open for all, the devout man strives to bring more souls into the eternal embrace of God, for the more who enter, the brighter God's glory will shine. With unwavering determination, he will use every opportunity to guide others into the comforting fold of Christ.

Unleashing the Power of Catholic Manhood

With his unwavering faith as his shield and his heart ablaze with fervent devotion, the Catholic man stands strong in the face of a world that has strayed from God's path. Armed with the example of Christ and the potent weapon of prayer, he takes on the daunting task of leading lost souls back to the arms of their Creator.

Every day, he kneels in prayer, beseeching the heavens for the conversion of his fellowmen who wander aimlessly in the barren desert of this life, disconnected from God. He strives to deepen his own understanding of the truths of his faith, so that he may be a guiding light for those who seek the answers. And he willingly joins forces with parochial and diocesan societies, using his resources to spread the good news to all corners of the world.

Truly, the Catholic man is a true soldier of Christ, fearlessly marching towards the fulfillment of God's mission. For in his hands, lies the power to transform hearts and bring about a world that is deeply rooted in the love and teachings of our Lord.

Embrace your calling as a Catholic man and follow in the footsteps of our Lord, who selflessly laid down his life for his sheep. Let us emulate his example of strength, courage, and compassion as we navigate through this often tumultuous world. And may we never forget that it is our duty to spread the good news of the Gospel and bring others into the loving embrace of our faith.

May we always strive to embody true Catholic manhood, guided by the words of our Savior and the wisdom of our Church.

Gospel Jn 10:11-18 Jesus said: "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father."

#the good shepherd #chicago #catholicism #frank j casella #manhood #catholic #religion #catholic man moment

[vinceleemiller]

The Divine Logic of God's Grace | Galatians 3:21

Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. — Galatians 3:21

CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Will Newcomb from Dover, DE, who watches our devotionals before his 4:00 am workout each day. Here's a spiritual workout for you today.

One of the most reasonable and logical arguments against salvation by works is the argument, "If you could've done it, you would've done it. You tried and failed, so God had to do it for you."

This is what Paul is saying here. The Law was God's means of getting our attention. It drove us to the reality that we are persistently and perpetually unrighteous and unlawful. It also pointed us to the one ("the offspring") who could live in perfect obedience to the Law and reveal him as the one who provides salvation and righteousness.

This is one of the things I love about our God. Everything he does is logical, reasonable, purposeful, and righteous, which leads us to freedom. And don't you want freedom? If you do, wouldn't it be foolish to be freed by God's divine sovereignty and continue to live and act like you are under the bondage of the law? May it never be!

Yet I know so many men who live in bondage to sin and shame and keep cycling repeatedly on the same sins. Sometimes, men convince themselves this is their penance. But there is no penance you can pay that Jesus has not paid for you. Remember, "If you could've done it, you would've done it. You tried and failed, so God had to do it for you." Isn't it time to accept his grace, receive his forgiveness, and stop rejecting the righteousness he has already extended to you?

Maybe today is the day you will receive what God has done and extended.

God, for those living under the bondage of repetitive sins, I pray that they will know, accept, and receive your grace and forgiveness today. Help them stop trying to do it on their own. May your Holy Spirit convict them of their selfish attempts and arrogant rejection of your forgiveness and grace. Make clear to them that they are an entirely new creation with a new identity in you. May they never return to the behaviors and patterns of their old life. Amen.

#GraceOverLaw #FreedomInChrist #BreakTheCycle #EmbraceGrace #NewCreation

ASK THIS:

Reflecting on your own life, in what ways have you found yourself trapped in cycles of sin or legalistic thinking? How can embracing God's grace lead to liberation from these patterns?

Consider a time when you've struggled to accept God's forgiveness and grace for your mistakes. How might recognizing the logical and purposeful nature of God's plan for salvation help you fully receive and embrace His forgiveness in your life?

DO THIS: Receive God's grace.

PRAY THIS: Lord, I confess my tendency to rely on my own efforts and to dwell in shame over my failures. Help me to fully accept and embrace your grace, knowing that through Christ, I am made new and free from the bondage of sin. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Made New.

Check out this episode!

[gatekeeper-watchman]

January 7th, 2024 Scriptural Devotion

Daily Devotionals for January 7, 2024

Proverbs: God's Wisdom for Daily Living

Devotional Scripture:

Proverbs 1:20-23(KJV): 20 Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: 21 She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, 22 How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? 23 Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. Proverbs 1:20-23(Amplified): 20 Wisdom cries aloud in the street; she raises her voice in the markets. 21 She cries at the head of the noisy intersections -- in the chief gathering places -- at the entrance of the city places she speaks: 22 How long, O simple ones and open to evil, will you love being simple? And the scoffers delight in scoffing, and (self-confident) fools hate knowledge? 23 If you will turn (repent) and give heed to my reproof, behold, I (Wisdom), will pour out my spirit upon you, I will make my words known to you.

Thought for the Day

Verses 20-21 - The author of all wisdom is the Lord God Himself. One of His names is WISDOM. The above Scripture is a picture of God's call to all men everywhere. In the typical city of ancient Israel, ordinary citizens were in its streets, businessmen were in its marketplaces, and leaders were found in the meeting places within the enormous gates of the city's surrounding walls. God calls people of every occupation, from ordinary citizens to the highest officials, to heed Him and be saved. God, through His evangelists and servants, sends His gospel message to the marketplace and cities of the world.

Verses 22-23 — The Hebrew word for simple in these verses means "foolish, easily enticed, credulous, inexperienced." Therefore, we see that the Lord is telling us not to be foolish, but to apply His wisdom in all that we do. If we learn to be responsible and deal righteously, He will promote us to places of leadership. God desires to put us in positions of authority to help others learn His ways. He is using Christian businessmen today to bring godly principles into the marketplace. Any nation that aligns its economic principles with God's Word will prosper. The opposite is also true; nations failing to do this will not be blessed, but suffer poverty and economic failure. These same principles also apply to personal finances.

Prayer Devotional for the Day

Father, please give us wisdom in all our personal affairs so that we might walk in Your blessings and prosperity, and that we, in turn, might be able to bless others. Lord, give us wise men in the places of authority to lead us as a nation. May Your wisdom be applied in the marketplaces of our land and also to our economic situation at the highest levels. Father, give us wise men to rule over us -- men who will be just and fair in their dealings, men of character. Protect us from the hoodlums and false accusers whose arrogance divides us and allows us to not feel anger for their despite. Thank you for teaching us Your ways and giving us the gift of the Holy Spirit. In the precious name of Jesus, we pray, Amen. From: Steven P. Miller @ParkermillerQ,  gatekeeperwatchman.org Founder of Gatekeeper-Watchman International Groups, Sunday, January 7, 2024, Jacksonville, Florida., USA.  X ... @ParkermillerQ #GWIG, #GWIN, #GWINGO, #Ephraim1, #IAM, #Sparkermiller, #Eldermiller1981 Founder on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Sparkermiller.JAX.FL.USA