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At our Pa Ba Ceremony of Offering Forest Cloth on Magha Puja Full Moon, Ajahn Dhammasiha gives a Dhamma Talk about the Ovādapātimokkha:Abstain from any evil deed accomplish what is good and true, And fully purify your mind - That is what all the Buddhas teach. Enduring patience is the best of all ascetic practices; The best of everything at all is called Nibbāna by the sage. If you cause harm to anyone you can't be called a genuine monk! Refrain from harming and abuse, and strictly keep the Buddha's rules; Be moderate when taking food, and dwell alone in solitude devoted to the Higher Mind - That is what all the Buddhas teach. The Buddha recited this concise summary of the whole practice leading to Nibbāna on the full moon of Magha, at the 'Sāvaka-sannipāta', the spontaneous gathering of 1,250 Arahant Bhikkhus, all of them ordained by the Buddha himself. Ajahn Dhammasiha also explains that the Veluvana (Bamboo Grove Monastery), the location of Magha Puja, was the first monastery ever offered to the Buddha. King Bimbisāra of the Kingdom of Magadha offered a park to the sangha, located outside the gates of his capital Rajagah. The Buddha accepted it and declared that the monks are now allowed to accept property the to be owned by the sangha communally (but not by individual monks). However, the monks continued to live in the open and under trees even in the newly offered monastery. The billionaire banker of Rajagaha saw the monks still living in the open, and asked the Buddha for permission to erect buildings for them. The Buddha granted permission, and from then on numerous structures were erected and offered to the sangha.Dhammagiri Forest Hermitage:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsOur email Newsletter:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsletterLatest Photoshttps://latest-pics.dhammagiri.netOur Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dhammatalksatdhammagiri8724#buddhism #buddha #buddhistmonastery #rajagaha #rajgir #maghapuja #ovadapatimokkha
Abstain from any evil deed accomplish what is good and true, And fully purify your mind - That is what all the Buddhas teach. Enduring patience is the best of all ascetic practices; The best of everything at all is called Nibbāna by the sage. If you cause harm to anyone you can't be called a genuine monk! Refrain from harming and abuse, and strictly keep the Buddha's rules; Be moderate when taking food, and dwell alone in solitude devoted to the Higher Mind - That is what all the Buddhas teach. The Buddha recited this concise summary of the whole practice leading to Nibbāna on the full moon of Magha, at the 'Sāvaka-sannipāta', the spontaneous gathering of 1,250 Arahant Bhikkhus, all of them ordained by the Buddha himself. Ajahn Dhammasiha introduces us to the location of the event, the Bamboo Grove Monastery ('Veḷuvana') at Rājagaha, and goes through the Ovādapātimokkha line by line (By the way, it's actually 14 lines of verse in the Pāli. When Ajahn Dhammasiha talks about 16 lines, he was thinking about the English translation, which has two lines more. It can be difficult to express meaning in English as succinct as in Pali, often one requires more words in modern languages to get the meaning accross)Dhammagiri Forest Hermitage:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsOur email Newsletter:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsletterLatest Photoshttps://latest-pics.dhammagiri.netOur Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dhammatalksatdhammagiri8724#buddhism #buddha #arahants #magha #maghapuja #ovadapatimokkha
Before you give up, press play. Today we are going to talk about the topic of it: Prayers don't expire, let's dive in!Sometimes we confuse commitments with productivity.We stay busy, we stay loud, we stay moving, but are we actually advancing, or are we just exhausting ourselves?We know how to go to God so why don't we?We can go to God like the persistent widow, refusing to let go without justice.We can go to God like Sarah believing when the promise feels so delayed.We can go to God like Hannah, pouring our hearts out when words fail.Ladies, we can even go to God like Jonah, these people are too lost to deserve saving or desperate enough to cry out from the depths after disobedience has occurred.We can go to God like Jairus, clinging to hope even when the report says “too late.”We can go to God like Abraham, trusting God to provide because of faith and obedience, even when the cost feels unbearable.We know how to pray, so why have some of us stopped praying?Are we living a life that keeps us positioned for God to move?1Thessalonians 5:16–22 ESV[16] Rejoice always,[17] pray without ceasing,[18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.[19] Do not quench the Spirit.[20] Do not despise prophecies,[21] but test everything; hold fast what is good.[22] Abstain from every form of evil.Notice it doesn't say rejoice when it's easy.Abstain from the ungodly things that you are intrigued by.It doesn't say pray only when it's urgent.It doesn't say give thanks when it makes sense.It says always.Without ceasing.In all circumstances.But here's the heart-check, ladies:Are we willing to dig our heels in and pray like Jesus prayed?Not the professional polite prayers.Not the quick speed date prayers.Not the “Lord, if You don't mind” prayers.But the kind of prayer that draws a line in the sand.Luke 4:8 NKJV[8] And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.' ”Jesus didn't negotiate.He didn't explain Himself.He didn't entertain the accusations.He stood on what was written.So let me ask youWhat are you standing on when the enemy comes whispering?What scripture do you answer with when doubt knocks?What truth do you cling to when yesterday's failures try to indict you today?Ladies, we already know the outcome. We have victory in Jesus Christ.1 Corinthians 15:57–58 NKJV[57] But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.[58] Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.Your labor is not in vain ladies.Your prayers are not wasted.Your obedience is not overlooked.Remember your submission to your husband glorifies God. When the enemy starts accusing you by dragging up the bad decisions of yesterday or even five minutes ago it's time to bring up God's resume.Remember how He walked you through it before.Remember how He sustained you in the middle of the mess.Remember how He rescued you when you didn't see a way out.God is not slack concerning His promises.He is omnipresent.Omniscient.Omnipotent.A rescuer then and a rescuer now.And He does not change.But let's be honest, can we say the same about ourselves?Do we walk like we believe God can do anything but fail?Have we let life create distance in our relationship with Christ?Have disappointments, unanswered prayers, or delayed promises caused us to pull back?Isn't He the only One who has ever been truly faithful and true from beginning to end?Ladies, prayers do not expire.So keep praying.Whether it's for you.For your children.For your family.For friends who don't even know you're praying.God cares.And God is listening.
In a total U-turn ó eip na seachtaine seo caite, táimid ag caint faoi Lent san eagrán seo! Beidh tús á chur leis an gCarghas (nó 40 Hard) amárach, agus táimid ag iarraidh é a phlé - cad iad na cúiseanna a mbíonn daoine á dhéanamh, cad iad na pleananna atá ag ár n-éisteoirí lena aghaidh, agus an rud maith é an struchtúr a thugann an Carghas dúinn, fiú muna bhfuil tú religious? Agus cinnte, tugaimid Lenten challenges dá chéile. Tá Doireann disgusted fós with how Dry January has wrecked her grá for an oíche fhada ar an ól, so don't be expecting her to be going off the drink again, ach beidh check-ins rialta ar an bpod - hold us accountable! HOW TO GAEL: LE GEALAÍ Corcaigh: https://corkpodcastfestival.ie/how-to-gael/ Baile Átha Cliath: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/how-to-gael-dublin-05-04-2026/event/1800638AD058E413 Bonus content ar fáil ar Patreon: patreon.com/HowToGael Bí i dteagmháil linn! Ríomhphost: howtogael@gmail.com Suíomh: https://www.howtogael.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtogael/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@howtogael Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 126), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Truth (Sha'ar HaEmes) from Orchos Tzaddikim, stressing that truth is the core of God, the soul, and Jewish destiny in exile. Key teachings:Prolonged exile due to sins — Current long exile stems from Jewish sins; we must separate from worldly vanities and cling to Hashem's seal—truth.Sanctify through truth — Abstain even from permissible things to avoid any trace of falsehood (97% truth = 100% false); never lie or mislead Jew or Gentile in any matter.Exile for converts — Hashem scattered Jews among nations to add gerim (converts); honest dealings inspire non-Jews to join (Midrash: “I will sow her for Myself in the land” = exile brings converts).Return stolen items — Stories of Rabbi Shimon ben Shetach returning a precious stone in a donkey purchase, and sages returning money found in wheat—Gentiles proclaimed “Blessed is the God of the Jews.” Sanctification of God's Name through honesty.Reward of truth — Truth sprouts from earth; righteousness looks down from heaven (Psalms 85:12). Truthful living glorifies Hashem and draws divine favor.Wicked rewarded in this world — Hashem pays wicked for minor merits now to destroy them eternally (Deuteronomy); better for righteous to suffer briefly here and receive eternal reward in Olam Haba.Practical application — Cling to truth in all dealings; exile teaches separation from falsehood and reliance on Hashem alone.The rabbi reflects on modern parallels (antisemitism, unity in crises like Nachshon Waxman) and urges living truthfully to hasten redemption—Moshiach comes when truth prevails. Ends previewing next trait: flattery (chanufa)._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 1, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 15, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Truth, #Emes, #Exile, #Converts, #KiddushHashem ★ Support this podcast ★
In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 126), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Truth (Sha'ar HaEmes) from Orchos Tzaddikim, stressing that truth is the core of God, the soul, and Jewish destiny in exile. Key teachings:Prolonged exile due to sins — Current long exile stems from Jewish sins; we must separate from worldly vanities and cling to Hashem's seal—truth.Sanctify through truth — Abstain even from permissible things to avoid any trace of falsehood (97% truth = 100% false); never lie or mislead Jew or Gentile in any matter.Exile for converts — Hashem scattered Jews among nations to add gerim (converts); honest dealings inspire non-Jews to join (Midrash: “I will sow her for Myself in the land” = exile brings converts).Return stolen items — Stories of Rabbi Shimon ben Shetach returning a precious stone in a donkey purchase, and sages returning money found in wheat—Gentiles proclaimed “Blessed is the God of the Jews.” Sanctification of God's Name through honesty.Reward of truth — Truth sprouts from earth; righteousness looks down from heaven (Psalms 85:12). Truthful living glorifies Hashem and draws divine favor.Wicked rewarded in this world — Hashem pays wicked for minor merits now to destroy them eternally (Deuteronomy); better for righteous to suffer briefly here and receive eternal reward in Olam Haba.Practical application — Cling to truth in all dealings; exile teaches separation from falsehood and reliance on Hashem alone.The rabbi reflects on modern parallels (antisemitism, unity in crises like Nachshon Waxman) and urges living truthfully to hasten redemption—Moshiach comes when truth prevails. Ends previewing next trait: flattery (chanufa)._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 1, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 15, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Truth, #Emes, #Exile, #Converts, #KiddushHashem ★ Support this podcast ★
Living above LustFor the Glory of God(1 Peter 2:11-12) Message SlidesRelationship Preceeds Repsonsibility - KuruvillaLiberty and Legalism - J.I. PackerThe Sea Lion's Heart - John EldridgeSummary of Holiness - J.I. PackerThe World - J.I. PackerExiles on Mission - Paul S. WilliamsFor the bulletin in PDF form, click here. INTRODUCTION: A Biblical Theology of Moral PurityThe Battle for Your SoulBelievers should actively make decisions in step with their identity. Cultural Values: Our family values do not fit a “me first” culture. (2:11a).Wrangling Desire: The real battle is the deep desires of your human nature (2:11b).High Stakes: The very essence of who you are hangs in the balance (2:11c).“Abstain” - άπέχω - to have or fully hold back, to have full control ofLifestyle EvangelismOur conduct impacts others in eternity.Attention: Your “walk” talks louder than your “talk” talks! (2:12a).Audience: The world is watching (2:12b).Accountability: Eventually, everything comes into the light (2:12c).“Keep” - έχω - to have or hold fast, have the resources ready for useThe way we live our lives and manage our deepest desireshas an impact on our very core identityand has an influence on others and eternity.“It's simple, but it is hard.”It's not hard because it's complex; it's because it's simple. Marriage [and spiritual growth] are hard, but it comes down to practicing a few simple things. Simple doesn't mean easy. Often it's actually difficult. Patrick LencioniHome Church QuestionsIdentity First:Peter calls believers “sojourners and exiles” again in this passage. How does remembering your identity in Christ as distinct from the world change the way you view temptation and purity?The Real Battle:Verse 11 says fleshly desires “wage war against the soul.” What are some ways you've seen corrupt desire shift from a momentary temptation into something that affects your spiritual vitality? It is a choice betwen life and death!“Abstain” as a Volitional Act of Self-Control:The word “abstain” implies holding back fully—have real and full control. It is taking seriously that we are volitional beings. What does biblical self-control look like in real life (not just avoiding sin, but actively fighting)?Culture vs. Christ:Where do you feel the strongest pressure from today's “me first” culture? How does that pressure show up in what you consume, desire, or justify?Purity and a Winsome Witness:Peter connects our conduct to evangelism. Why do you think the credibility of the gospel is often judged by the purity and character of Christians? Talk about why that should not matter, but it still does.When Accused Wrongly:Verse 12 says unbelievers often harshly judge Christians as evildoers or at least believe we have a “Strange Religion”. How should Christians respond when we're misunderstood or accused—especially in moral areas?Practical Next Step:What is one daily habit (or weekly practice) that would help you “keep your conduct honorable” and strengthen your spiritual readiness this week?UPG FOCUS: The Northern Zaza or Türkiye (Turkey)The Northern Zaza are a Kurdish people group living in eastern Turkey who follow a unique form of Islam shaped by mysticism and older traditions. They have faced long-standing marginalization and currently have no known believers, though some gospel resources exist in their language. Pray that God would open hearts, reveal Christ to them, and send faithful workers to share the hope of the gospel.FinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 01/25 28,180Giving For 02/01 378,325YTD Budget 1,073,077Giving 1,363,275 OVER/(UNDER) 290,198 Souper SundayFellowship, we're collecting food items for Bethlehem House TODAY! Needed items: hearty soups, canned chili, spaghetti sauce, Tuna Helper, canned meats, and Knorr brand pastas. A few cans or flats of these items would be greatly appreciated. If you aren't able to bring your items today, you can drop them off directly at Bethlehem House (1115 Parkway St.). Thank you for helping meet this need!New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship equipping - register at fellowshipconway.org/equipping • Faithful and Fruitful is a five-week course designed to help you live with greater purpose, clarity, and faithfulness by stewarding the key areas God has entrusted to you. Starts today! • Biblical Indispensable Relationships: Ever feel like navigating the relationships in your life is more like steering through a maze—where one friend or co-worker can push every button you have, and others leave you wishing for something deeper and more meaningful? You're not alone. Join Michael Mercer for a transformative four-week journey into Biblical Indispensable Relationships. This course starts next week, February 15th!Fellowship Women's Conference - Choosing Faith over FearJoin us February 21 from 9:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m. for a meaningful day as women from our church share powerful stories of choosing faith over fear. You'll be encouraged, equipped with practical resources for life's storms, and reminded of God's goodness and faithfulness. Cost: $25 (includes lunch). Register at fellowshipconway.org/women. For childcare, please text Shanna at 501-336-0332. Registration & childcare deadline is February 15. Fellowship Youth & College Silent Auction | march 8 | 4 pm - 6pmJoin us for a fun evening supporting our mission trips to Arlington, TX, and the Czech Republic! Bid on baked goods, service certificates, gift baskets, overnight stays, and more. Light refreshments provided. Childcare available for ages 6 and under by request (contact Shanna 501-336-0332). Fellowship Men's MusterMen's Muster is April 17-19, 2026. Senior Teaching Pastor, Chris Moore, will be our speaker, and the weekend promises to be great for growing spiritually and connecting deeply with other men. Cost is $135 or $85 for a college/High School student. If money is an issue, please check the “contact me” button. We will reach out to see what you are able to pay. Register at fellowshipconway.org/men Fellowship Men's Ministry Game NightMen, this night is for you. Bring your favorite game and snacks, kick back, and get ready for some friendly competition. Men's Game Night is Friday, February 27, from 6-9 p.m. at the church. If you want a little taste of what Men's Muster is like, here's your chance.Ash Wednesday | February 18 | 7 am - 7 pm We are opening a space in the second-floor Fireside Room for prayer and confession Wednesday, February 18, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. to prepare our hearts for celebrating Jesus' resurrection. This is a drop-in, self-directed prayer, confession, and reflection time. We have prompts to help you if you desire. Feel free to sit before the Lord as long as you want. Access the stairwell that leads up to the entrance on the back lot that faces the basketball goal and Grace Methodist Church.
Ephesians Series: Ephesians 5:4a-The Believer Must Abstain From Obscene Language, Stupid Conversation and Crude Joking-Lesson # 316
Ephesians Series: Ephesians 5:4a-The Believer Must Abstain From Obscene Language, Stupid Conversation and Crude Joking-Lesson # 316
Title: “A Pure and Honorable Vessel” Part 1 Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-5 FCF: We often struggle with sexual temptation and sin. Prop: Because God's will for His children is for them to be holy, we must abstain from all sexual sin by controlling our bodies. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 4. In a moment we will begin reading from the Legacy Standard bible starting in verse 1. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. We are at the beginning of a chapter yet again which means we need to review where we have been so far. In chapter 1, Paul expresses his thankfulness to God for the Thessalonian church because he knows they are elect of God, because the gospel came to them in the power of the Spirit and because he has observed how the Thessalonian church has become imitators of Christ amid affliction. In chapter 2, Paul zooms in to affirm that their visit among them was profitable. Probably to counter claims of unbelieving Thessalonians, Paul insists that it was a profitable visit because God gave them boldness to speak, they became a spiritual family, and because it produced the same results they had seen in previous outpourings of the gospel. Paul concludes chapter 2 assuring them that he greatly wished to visit them but had been hindered by Satan. But he assures them that they are his hope, joy, and glory in that they stand firm in their faith. In chapter 3, Paul reveals that he sent Timothy to them because he was overwhelmed with godly concern for their faith. He also reveals his joy at the report from Timothy that they stood fast in their faith but that he hopes to see them again soon and complete what is lacking in their faith. He ends chapter 3 with a benediction, good and comforting words, praying to God to bring them into fellowship again, to cause their love to abound and their holiness to be perfected for the Lord's return. The benediction ends the apologetic section of the letter, where Paul is defending their visit and the gospel they preached by the impact it had on the Thessalonians. He now begins a new portion of the letter, where he will seek to complete their faith by instructing them in things that he was not able to fully teach on while the evangelists were with them. With that please stand with me to focus on and give honor to the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Holy God, You are pure and distinct. There is none like You. You are Alpha and Omega. You are the beginning and the end. You are neither tempted to do evil, nor do you tempt anyone with evil. You are morally pure in all Your ways and You are always good in character and in action. Teach us today from Your Holy Word, by impressing Your Son's example on our lives, and by imparting Your Spirit's power and passion to know how to please You with our bodies. You have given these bodies to us to reflect Your character. You have saved us to be light in a world of darkness. May we be holy as You have willed us to be. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] While I will not be intentionally explicit or irreverent, we will discuss quite plainly and openly the will of God for sexual ethics among His people. As such, there will be plenty of concepts and principles relayed today that could generate lots of questions among young listeners. I recommend that any who are preteens, who normally sit in the service continue to do so and listen intently. But I also recommend that parents be ready to answer those questions and have those discussions and if they feel their child is not ready, that they should be excused from the service. Never had to give a parental advisory for a sermon before
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. (1Th 5:21-22 KJV)
Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away!
1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 by Brian Mullet | Lead Pastor
it is not only said to be "enmity," but it is said to be "enmity against God." It has chosen a great enemy indeed. It is in various places proposed as our enemy, "Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" (1Pe 2:11). Fleshly lusts are enemies to the soul (that is, to ourselves). Sometimes indwelling sin is proposed as an enemy to the Spirit that is in us: "The flesh lusteth [that is, fights] against the Spirit" (Gal 5:17). It fights against the Spirit, or the spiritual principle that is in us, to conquer it. It fights against our souls to destroy them. It has special aims and designs against our souls and against the principle of grace that is in us. But its proper formal object is God:
1 Thessalonians 5:12-24Matt SprinkleSermon Notes:• When is Jesus coming back?• He's coming back!• Live as people who are awake• 1 Thes 5:12-13 12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.• Accept them. Appreciate them. Love them. Obey them.• 1 Thes 4:14-15 14 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.• If our family matters, then we need to address the family matters• ataktos - Disorderly or out of rank• Are you idle? Does this stir anything in you?• Our encouragement should push people to a stronger faith.• Patience & Refusing to Retaliate• “[God] is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, rich in faithful love, and He relents from sending disaster.” Joel 2:13• 1 Thes 5:16-22 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.• How can they rejoice like that?• THIS IS NOT OPTIONAL• Gossip. Selfishness. Pride. Slander. Bitterness.• “What does the bible say?”• 1 Thes 5:23-24 23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.• When the world watches our church what do they see?LIFE Group Discussion QuestionsStarter Question: When you think of a healthy family—real or fictional—what qualities come to mind?Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-281. What stood out most to you from Sunday's message about “family matters” in the church? Why?2. Of the three groups Paul mentions—idle, fainthearted, weak— which one do you find hardest to deal with, and why?3. How can we tell the difference between someone who needs encouragement and someone who is being divisive?4. Which of the three commands — rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks — is most challenging for you right now?5. What does it look like to “test everything and hold fast to what is good” in a world filled with opinions, influencers, and spiritual noise?6. How does Christ's second coming (and the Advent season) shape the way we live as a church family today?
You couldn't tell from the dishes served at a ward potluck, but Mormons are under obligation to cut down their meat consumption. Or… are they?
The city grapples with a snow removal plan for the upcoming season. Plus - do you think pharmacare and dentalcare are akin to public healthcare and Canadian values?
Send us a textIn this episode, Pastor Dom takes a deep dive into the account of David and King Saul 1 Samuel 8:4-54 Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah, 5 and said to him, “Look, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.”1 Samuel 8:77 And the Lord said to Samuel, “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.1 Samuel 18:5-85 So David went out wherever Saul sent him, and behaved wisely. And Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants. 6 Now it had happened as they were coming home, when David was returning from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women had come out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy, and with musical instruments. 7 So the women sang as they danced, and said:“Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.”8 Then Saul was very angry, and the saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed only thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?”1 Samuel 27:11 And David said in his heart, “Now I shall perish someday by the hand of Saul. There is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape to the land of the Philistines; and Saul will despair of me, to seek me anymore in any part of Israel. So I shall escape out of his hand.”1 Samuel 28:128 Now it happened in those days that the Philistines gathered their armies together for war, to fight with Israel. 1 Samuel 28:33 Now Samuel had died,… And Saul had put the mediums and the spiritists out of the land.1 Samuel 28:5-75 When Saul saw the army of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart trembled greatly. 6 And when Saul inquired of the Lord, the Lord did not answer him,… 7 Then Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her.” and his servants said to him, “In fact, there is a woman who is a medium at En Dor.”Leviticus 19:3131 ‘Give no regard (consideration) to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.Exodus 22:1818 “You shall not permit a sorceress to live.Leviticus 20:2727 ‘A man or a woman who is a medium, or who has familiar spirits (who consult the spirits of the dead), shall surely be put to death; they shall stone them with stones.1 Thessalonians 5:2222 Abstain from every form of evil.Proverbs 4:1414 Do not enter the path of the wicked, And do not walk in the way of evil.3 John 1111 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good….1 Samuel 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,…John 10:1010 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.Ephesians 4:2727 nor give place (opportunity) to the devil.
How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast. If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Transcript of How to Enjoy Peace of Mind When Jesus was about to leave this world, he told his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) He knew that he was headed for the cross. He knew his disciples were going to experience trials, tough times and lots of trouble. His gift to them was peace. Peace of mind. I think the idea of peace of mind gets overlooked today. There is a lot of study on the concept of happiness, and I think these things are related. Happiness is often connected to what you have, who you're with and where you are going. Peace is independent of all of those things and is available to every disciple in every circumstance, right now. I want you to think about a time when you were enjoying peace of mind. When you really felt calm and joyful inside. What was that like? Can you share about that experience? Let's take a look at how to enjoy more of the gift Jesus gave us, the gift of peace. 1. Abstain from Sinful Desires. Peter shares this in 1 Peter 2:11, “11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” There is nothing that will destroy your peace of mind more easily than unrestrained sinful desires. This is why Jesus counsels in Matthew 5:30 that, “if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.” Jesus is not being mean or “old school,” he's being realistic. If you are compromising or tolerating a certain level of sin in your life, you're going to have difficulty enjoying the peace of mind Jesus promises. Peter rephrases Jesus' command by telling us to abstain, which means, “to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an action or practice.” That can mean alcohol, swearing, media consumption, shopping, news binging and other controlling habits. As a disciple of Jesus, this world is not your home. You need to live with a level of detachment as a foreigner. When Pam and I lived in Japan, there were many things that went straight over our heads as foreigners and “Gai-Jin.” The jokes, the culture, the conformity to custom. If you want peace of mind, don't negotiate, don't tolerate, don't rationalize, instead abstain. As Thomas A'Kempis said in the Imitation of Christ, “true peace of heart is found in resisting passions, not in yielding to them.” 2. Put your love into action. 1 John 3:16-19. 16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 19 This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence.” Resisting evil is only one part of the equation to find peace. John advises us to live and love like Jesus did. Loving in actions and truth reminds you that you belong to the truth and sets your heart at rest in his presence. It doesn't earn you a spot in heaven, but it reminds you of your identity as a child of God. If you want peace of mind, wake up each day with a determination to actively serve someone, help someone, encourage someone, assist someone, help someone move, comfort someone, advise someone, offer someone your time, energy or expertise. Next time you are prompted by the spirit, act on that nudge. Love in action and truth. Enjoy peace of mind and set your heart at rest in his presence. 3. Remember God is Greater than Your Feelings. 1 John 3:19-20. This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Our feelings and thoughts are often the worst offenders when it comes to disrupting our peace of mind. Our self-judgment, self-criticism, wacky thoughts, catastrophic fears, fatalistic ideas, borrowed concepts from the world, childhood thoughts, inherited ideas all contribute to a lack of peace. As Tom Ferry says, “"Negative self-talk is the equivalent of letting a drunk monkey loose in your kitchen." That's when we need to remind ourselves that God is far greater than our feelings. Our feelings don't define reality, they are only an impression of reality. The God who made the world, who chose you before the creation of the world, who personally showed up in the world to rescue you is going to bring to completion what he started when he called you. He knows all about you and your quirks, faults and failures and he still adores you. You need to take captive those misguided thoughts and make them obedient to Christ, who is greater than your heart. Take some time each day to sit quietly and focus on the greatness of God, a scripture or a noble thought. When a weird thought pops up, don't freak out. Just look at it and ask yourself, is this thought from God? What's the reality? 4. Actively pursue peace of mind. 2 Timothy 2:22. “22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” If you have overlooked, undervalued or ignored the concept of peace of mind, it might be time to reevaluate it. Jesus considered it a top gift and at the critical event of his life, the cross, he gave the gift of peace to those who followed him. You might want to find out why Jesus considered it so important. In fact, I'd do more than think about it, I'd pursue it. Make it a priority along with righteousness, faith a love. All the “cool kids” who have pure hearts are doing it. I like what Naval Ravikant shares in his almanack: “When I was younger, I really, really valued freedom. Freedom was one of my core values. Ironically, it still is. It's probably one of my top three values, but it's now a different definition of freedom. My old definition was “freedom to.” Freedom to do anything I want. Freedom to do whatever I feel like, whenever I feel like. Now, the freedom I'm looking for is internal freedom. It's “freedom from.” Freedom from reaction. Freedom from feeling angry. Freedom from being sad. Freedom from being forced to do things. I'm looking for “freedom from,” internally and externally, whereas before I was looking for “freedom to.” Naval is not a disciple, but I think there is value here. Peace of mind is “freedom from.” You can enjoy peace, joy, and contentment in any stage of life, relationship status, financial circumstance, health status, location or any other environment. Make a decision that you are going to pursue peace of mind. Make it a conscious goal to enjoy Jesus' gift to you.
Last week we had the to do behaviors, and today we have the do not section and Paul's beautiful, rich, benediction that concludes in a blessing of assurance.
Profile This, TV Time with Ted and Headlines!
Ellen Coyne and Pat Leahy join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:· With Independent TD Catherine Connolly and former MEP Mairead McGuinness having declared their candidacy, there will now be at least two names in the race for the Áras. But with no sign yet of a clear candidate for Fianna Fáil or Sinn Féin, are any of the potential names currently being discussed likely to gain party support? · Fianna Fáil's Niall Collins would be 'very uncomfortable' with a one-size-fits-all approach to a blanket VAT cut for the hospitality sector, given that luxury and five-star hotels would benefit from a measure they don't necessarily need. Some Fine Gael Ministers are unhappy with Mr Collins for criticising a policy that would help support entry-level jobs in rural Ireland. · And as the humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza, urgency around the Occupied Territories Bill increases. The inclusion of services is still the big question given the huge potential knock-on effects for some businesses here. Plus, the panel picks their favourite Irish Times pieces of the week:· A new exhibition exploring the legacy of the Magdalene Laundries, fifty years since the release of Stanley Kubrick's Barry Lyndon, and Joe Canning's take on Tipperary's triumph in the All-Ireland hurling final against Cork. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You'll be spiritually healthy. “Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” - 1 Peter 2:11 (KJV)
How do we win the war against sin and the war for souls in Christ by abstaining, maintaining, and obtaining?
Mark Winner discusses 1 Thessalonians 5:22—“Abstain from every form of evil.”
Today's sermon is Abstain from Sexual Immorality by Damian Kyle Find more teaching from Pastor Damian at www.ccmodesto.com
Lead Associate Pastor, Rich Sylvester, brings a message from 1 Peter 2:11-25 as we continue our series, "The New Exile."For more information about the Williamsburg Community Chapel• Website: http://www.wcchapel.org• Facebook: wcchapel757• Instagram: wcchapel757
Ref: SM1710
(Auckland Insight Meditation) Looking at the second of Thich Nhat Hanh's Five Mindfulness Trainings, which he expands to include "I am committed to practicing Right Livelihood so that I can help reduce the suffering of living beings on Earth and stop contributing to climate change"
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Auckland Insight Meditation) Looking at the second of Thich Nhat Hanh's Five Mindfulness Trainings, which he expands to include "I am committed to practicing Right Livelihood so that I can help reduce the suffering of living beings on Earth and stop contributing to climate change"
Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter. Traditionally, during Lent, Christians fast or give something up. In today's episode, I talk about giving up sugar, plus give some tips on how best to use flashcards to learn vocabulary. Vocabulary: Give something up, Lent, Ramadan, Abstain, Hold someone accountable, Hojicha, Taste buds, Crave, Vain, Spring (verb), Daylight savings, Flashcards Go to EasyStoriesInEnglish.com/Lent for the full transcript. Get episodes without adverts + bonus episodes at EasyStoriesInEnglish.com/Support. Your support is appreciated! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mike McCoy 3-23-2025 AM Brother Mike brings us a pertinent message concerning a subject dating back to Biblical times, and reminds us if it was true then, it certainly is now. Crossville First Free Will Baptist Church www.crossvillechurch.com
Pastor Steve Perez | March 25, 2025The Fountain Apostolic Churchone_ (2025)Learn more at tfachurch.com/plus
It's not about eating fish—it's about choosing simplicity, penance, and uniting with the poor. Why do Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays? Join Fr. Jonathan Meyer as he unpacks the deeper meaning behind this Lenten practice. Let's embrace this season with the right intention!
Today is Wednesday, March 5, 2025, Ash Wednesday, a 1st class feast, with the color of violet. In this episode: The meditation: “The Mystery of Lent,” a preview of the Sermon: “Why Do We Fast and Abstain?,” today's news from the Church: “The Ukrainian Rift Separates the Vatican From the United States,” and today's thought from the Archbishop. Sources Used Today: From Epiphany to Lent (Angelus Press) “The Ukrainian Rift Separates the Vatican From the United States” (FSSPX.news) https://fsspx.news/en/news/ukrainian-rift-separates-vatican-united-states-51034 “Why Do We Fast and Abstain?” (SSPX Sermons) Watch on YouTube Listen & Subscribe: SSPX Sermons Podcast The Spiritual Life- Archbishop Lefebvre (Angelus Press) - - - - - - - We'd love your feedback on these Daily Devotionals! What do you like / not like, and what would you like us to add? podcast@sspx.org - - - - - - - Please Support this Apostolate with 1-time or Monthly Donation >> - - - - - - - Explore more: Subscribe to the email version of this Devotional - it's a perfect companion! Subscribe to this Podcast to receive this and all our audio episodes Subscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel for video versions of our podcast series and Sermons FSSPX News Website: https://fsspx.news Visit the US District website: https://sspx.org/ - - - - - What is the SSPX Podcast? The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition. https://sspx.org
We fast and abstain during the Lenten season in order, among other things, to control the concupiscence of the flesh while elevating our souls to God. Both practices also offer us an opportunity to make reparation for our past sins and imitate Our Lord, fasted in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights.
Get the QuitByHealing Program: https://quitbyhealing.com/program/Join the newsletter: https://quitbyhealing.com/newsletter/There's a lot of talk about semen retention in the men's advice and nofap worlds. Unfortunately, almost everything people are saying about this is plain wrong. Really just entirely missing the point and probably doing more harm than good.If you're going to do this, do it right and avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that I explain in this video. Here, you'll learn about the Taoist and Yogic roots of the idea of semen retention, why there are stories of people gaining superpowers from not nutting for a while and what you should and shouldn't do if this is a path of spiritual development you want to take.Chapters:00:00 We need to talk about this...00:41 A quick disclaimer02:01 What semen retention is NOT about03:42 What semen retention IS about04:50 "Moving Energy"05:58 Okay, but how?07:56 The Real Thing vs. The Side Effect09:43 Why it does more harm than good11:19 Don't Abstain(?)12:27 Mistake Number 114:57 Mistake Number 216:17 What it SHOULD Feel Like18:33 Do this instead19:39 My personal experience20:32 Get out of the Struggle Cycle23:26 The World Needs Good MenRelated videos: - Why it's harmful to expect benefits/superpowers on a specific timeline: https://youtu.be/bIdb60GrI18- Don't get stuck in your masculine development: https://youtu.be/nLsEGUF3JUg- How to develop a healthy masculine communication style: https://youtu.be/u4kOqFU7oj0
5:4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 5:7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 5:10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 5:16 Rejoice evermore. 5:17 Pray without ceasing. 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 5:19 Quench not the Spirit. 5:20 Despise not prophesyings. 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. 5:25 Brethren, pray for us. 5:26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. 5:27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. 5:28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
The end of 1 Thessalonians is the practical boots on the ground portion of this brilliant letter. It gives the church both its marching orders and the plan to construct a community that lives into its given righteousness.
The end of 1 Thessalonians is the practical boots on the ground portion of this brilliant letter. It gives the church both its marching orders and the plan to construct a community that lives into its given righteousness.
Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_______________Opening Words:Watch, for you know not when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning; lest he come suddenly and find you asleep.Mark 13:35, 36 Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The InvitatoryLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia. Venite (Psalm 95:1-7)Our King and Savior now draws near: Come, let us adore him.Come, let us sing to the Lord; * let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving * and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.For the Lord is a great God, * and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, * and the heights of the hills are his also.The sea is his, for he made it, * and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, * and kneel before the Lord our Maker.For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. *Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!Our King and Savior now draws near: Come, let us adore him. The PsalterPsalm 26Judica me, DomineBCP p. 616Give judgment for me, O Lord,for I have lived with integrity; *I have trusted in the Lord and have not faltered.Test me, O Lord, and try me; *examine my heart and my mind.For your love is before my eyes; *I have walked faithfully with you.I have not sat with the worthless, *nor do I consort with the deceitful.I have hated the company of evildoers; *I will not sit down with the wicked.I will wash my hands in innocence, O Lord, *that I may go in procession round your altar,Singing aloud a song of thanksgiving *and recounting all your wonderful deeds.Lord, I love the house in which you dwell *and the place where your glory abides.Do not sweep me away with sinners, *nor my life with those who thirst for blood,Whose hands are full of evil plots, *and their right hand full of bribes.As for me, I will live with integrity; *redeem me, O Lord, and have pity on me.My foot stands on level ground; *in the full assembly I will bless the Lord. Psalm 28Ad te, DomineBCP p. 619OLord, I call to you;my Rock, do not be deaf to my cry; *lest, if you do not hear me,I become like those who go down to the Pit.Hear the voice of my prayer when I cry out to you, *when I lift up my hands to your holy of holies.Do not snatch me away with the wicked or with the evildoers, *who speak peaceably with their neighbors,while strife is in their hearts.Repay them according to their deeds, *and according to the wickedness of their actions.According to the work of their hands repay them, *and give them their just deserts.They have no understanding of the Lord's doings,nor of the works of his hands; *therefore he will break them down and not build them up.Blessed is the Lord! *for he has heard the voice of my prayer.The Lord is my strength and my shield; *my heart trusts in him, and I have been helped;Therefore my heart dances for joy, *and in my song will I praise him.The Lord is the strength of his people, *a safe refuge for his anointed.Save your people and bless your inheritance; *shepherd them and carry them for ever. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. LessonsIsa. 5:13-17, 24-25A Reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.Therefore my people go into exile for lack of knowledge; their honored men go hungry, and their multitude is parched with thirst. Therefore Sheol has enlarged its appetite and opened its mouth beyond measure, and the nobility of Jerusalem and her multitude will go down, her revelers and he who exults in her. Man is humbled, and each one is brought low, and the eyes of the haughty are brought low. But the Lord of hosts is exalted in justice, and the Holy God shows himself holy in righteousness. Then shall the lambs graze as in their pasture, and nomads shall eat among the ruins of the rich.Therefore, as the tongue of fire devours the stubble, and as dry grass sinks down in the flame, so their root will be as rottenness, and their blossom go up like dust; for they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, and have despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against his people, and he stretched out his hand against them and struck them, and the mountains quaked; and their corpses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this his anger has not turned away, and his hand is stretched out still.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Te Deum laudamusYou are God: we praise you;You are the Lord: we acclaim you;You are the eternal Father:All creation worships you.To you all angels, all the powers of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,heaven and earth are full of your glory.The glorious company of apostles praise you.The noble fellowship of prophets praise you.The white-robed army of martyrs praise you. Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you;Father, of majesty unbounded,your true and only Son, worthy of all worship, and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal Son of the Father.When you became man to set us free you did not shun the Virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of deathand opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory.We believe that you will come and be our judge.Come then, Lord, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood, and bring us with your saintsto glory everlasting. 1 Thess. 5:12-28A Reading from the First Letter to the Thessalonians.We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. Brothers, pray for us. Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. I put you under oath before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Benedictus Dominus DeusBlessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; * he has come to his people and set them free.He has raised up for us a mighty savior, * born of the house of his servant David.Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, * from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers * and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, * to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, * holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, * for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation * by the forgiveness of their sins.In the tender compassion of our God * the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. The Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And also with you.Let us pray.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. Suffrages AV. Show us your mercy, O Lord;R. And grant us your salvation.V. Clothe your ministers with righteousness; R. Let your people sing with joy.V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;R. For only in you can we live in safety. V. Lord, keep this nation under your care;R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth.V. Let your way be known upon earth;R. Your saving health among all nations.V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.V. Create in us clean hearts, O God;R. And sustain us with your Holy Spirit. The CollectsAdvent 2Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.Daily Collects:A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceO Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others. Collect of Saint BasilO Christ God, Who art worshipped and glorified at every place and time; Who art long-suffering, most merciful and compassionate; Who lovest the righteous and art merciful to sinners; Who callest all to salvation with the promise of good things to come: receive, Lord, the prayers we now offer, and direct our lives in the way of Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, cleanse our bodies, correct our thoughts, purify our minds and deliver us from all affliction, evil and illness. Surround us with Thy holy angels, that guarded and instructed by their forces, we may reach unity of faith and the understanding of Thine unapproachable glory: for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. DismissalLet us bless the LordThanks be to God! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen
We don't need research studies to tell us we're stressed (although they do, and frequently—a 2021 Gallup poll found that 41% of adults worldwide experience a lot of stress). We feel it everywhere: demanding hours and clients at work; raising kids; the news; the ever-ending list of things to do—the list goes on. Are you ready to leave stress behind? We've got you covered! In this podcast episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender rip off the band-aid: We can't get rid of stress entirely. But we can get a better handle on it by dealing with it in healthier ways. Part of the trick is recognizing when you're stressed; what responses and behaviors you default to when overwhelm takes a hold. Then, when you feel it coming on, implement one or more of these six practical tips for mitigating stress: Take time for self-care. Talk to someone you trust. Get moving. Find the humor. Abstain from social media when necessary. Practice gratitude. As Darlene and Julie chat through each of these tips and their application, you'll find specific combinations and variations that work best with your schedule and emotions to deal with stress head-on. Quote of the episode: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid." —James 14:27 Resources Related "Feeling Stressed Out? Here Are 5 Tips to Stay Calm" "Stop the Holiday Hustle: Celebrate More, Stress Less - 064" Mentioned Check out the Smart Living book series here! Be sure to follow us on social media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest #gritandgracelife
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