This passage continues to remind all of us that the day will come when we will have trouble seeing, hearing, eating and getting around. This tells us how important it is to learn about God early in life. Studies have shown that those who come to faith early in life, even if they walk away for a while, will return to God. Often this happens after they have children of their own, or when they experience a tragedy and it turns their hearts back to God. Reading this reminded me of a book I once read. I am an avid – some might say obsessive – knitter. I learned to knit as a child and have used this skill to make clothing for my family as well as to earn a little money for my craft. This book was on the history of knitting in the United States. In it, it spoke of the need to teach children when they were young and they were required to finish at least 3 or 4 rounds on their stockings before they could play. Learning young was considered important so that they could continue to knit and contribute to the family when they grew old and had trouble seeing. If learning to knit was considered important to a person and that person's family, then consider how much more important it is to have God in our lives. God's presence brings the warmth of his love, protection from evil and the promise of everlasting joy when this life comes to an end. What better reasons for faith are there?

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12 King James Bible App. Inspiration: How blessed, how happy, the man who endures and resists temptation! The trying of his faith will end in life. No temptation or trial seems at the time to be pleasant, but is a cause of distress and discomfort. But God uses even the temptations of the Devil to our ultimate advantage if we are among those who love God and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). When we fall into sin, our weakness is revealed to us, leading us to rely on God instead of on our flesh to uphold us in the future; when we successfully resist evil, God reveals to us the strength he has wrought in us to his own glory. Prayer: Lord, we know we should never choose to seek out temptation or place ourselves needlessly in a tempting situation. We should pray you would "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the Evil One (Satan). " But when you choose to allow temptation to come into our lives, we pray we would overcome it. And if we should fall, we pray we would learn from it and you would work it (as all things) to our ultimate good. Amen.

Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:22-23 King James Bible App. Inspiration: The birth of Christ had been prophesied in the book of Isaiah. This was long before the angel came to Mary and Joseph. This is one of the many examples in the Bible that confirm God's faithfulness when it comes to fulfilling the promises He makes. The greatest promise, of His Son, Jesus Christ, was fulfilled. We have all the evidence about this. How can we doubt God after being exposed to such great faithfulness? Prayer: Dear God, I am grateful for Your Word, the Bible, which is filled with so many examples of Your faithfulness. The greatest example being in the fulfilled promise of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Your son, Jesus Christ. Lord, I am comforted in knowing that You, my Father, are faithful in all You say, and perfect in all Your ways. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Those who had been baptized following Peter's Pentecost sermon knew that they needed to learn more about Jesus and so they continued to study at the feet of the apostles. They would gather for prayer and would break bread together in fellowship. The power of God was still evident in the signs and wonders that accompanied the apostles. In another translation, the word "fear" is translated as "awe." This is probably a better emotion considering that they had witnessed the crucifixion and some of them may have been present when Jesus ascended into heaven. Do you ever wonder what it might have been like to sit with the apostles and listen to their stories about Jesus? They could ask the apostles questions and get some personal information about Jesus. It must have been exciting to be a part of something new. Today we still need to learn about Jesus' teachings even though Christianity is not a new religion. Where do we go to learn, break bread and find fellowship with other believers? For those associated with a particular church community, the answer could be there. For others, it is still important to join with other believers. This is what sustains our faith when we are weak, and we, in turn, provide strength for others in their times of need. Do you attend a Bible study, or have a regular time to sit and reflect on Scripture? I enjoy the insights I gain from the people who attend the two Bible studies I attend each week. The discussions open my mind to see other ways of looking at something I think I know well. We all need to look at the earliest Christians as models for our own behavior.

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:11 King James Bible App. Inspiration: Through Jesus Christ alone are we made "alive unto God. " If we are dead to sin, then it will lose its power over us. If we are alive to God, we will respond in love and obedience to his Word and his Spirit. Prayer: Help us to live this day as dead indeed to sin and alive indeed to you, O Lord. You are the source of our life and the focus of our life. All of the spiritual exercises that you animate in us are directed back to you as the object of our affection and praise. With renewed minds and wills, let us serve you out of pure heart faithfully. Amen.

Teachers really deserve 100K base pay nationwide

A bear:

The outrage was never about standards, it was about who.

She's right, but she's not telling the whole story. Humans of all genders work this way.

I hope people understand that Louisiana, and the South, are the way they are because the people in power will do everything they can to keep us down. Good for him for saying it to their faces.

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. Psalms 5:11 King James Bible App. Inspiration: Faith in God and love for God naturally go with joy of spirit. Christians will have troubles in life like anyone else and may even be persecuted for their faith, but there is still a deep, inner joy that nothing can destroy. It is the joy of knowing that we belong to God as his children, that He is ever watching over us for good, and that we will spend eternity in his presence. Prayer: Lord, you are the giver of true joy. The world has its so-called joy that is merely based on being in presently favorable circumstances. We have a joy based on a relationship with you that can never change. In good times, we rejoice in your gift; in dark times, may our joy shine all the brighter, that the world may wonder and be drawn to your light. Amen.

I appreciate this model for being a researcher so much. It's why I don't care if someone thinks I spend too much time on the impacts of my work or listening to what students and activists tell me are problems with higher ed.

None but the righteous a novel by Chantal James

🤓 @chantalalive.blacksky.app

Yall better deal with all your anxiety, stress, unnecessary worrying NOW because it will lead to alzhimers and dementia later.

Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. Romans 14:13 King James Bible App. Inspiration: Part of this Christian life is refusing to judge others. Judging and condemning people who happen to be struggling with sin or iniquity will not profit you in any way. If anything, you are countering the grace that was given to you so freely. As you were given, you were instructed to give. Be gracious to all people in your life. If you have to correct, let it be done in love, not hate, judgment or condemnation. The goal should be to point people to Christ, not away from Him. Prayer: Dear God, I ask that You will help me to refrain from oppressing people through judgement or condemnation. Lord, I pray that my words and actions will never serve as a stumbling block in another person's life. May my decisions be influenced by Your wisdom and Your love, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Peter was so much bolder following Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit. He and some of the other apostles would walk around the temple area speaking about Jesus and his teachings concerning the resurrection from the dead. The leaders of the community were not happy. They really wanted to arrest them, but because of events like the healing of a crippled man they were afraid of what the people might do. Later, Peter, John and others would be arrested and beaten for continuing to preach about Jesus. There has always been an element of danger for those who have worked to spread the Gospel. In the early days, the disciples had to worry about persecution from the Romans as well as from others who did not want their power threatened. There are still men and women today who go into areas that are dangerous to preach the Good News of Jesus and salvation. Men and women have been murdered, women have been raped, and churches destroyed by those who fear Jesus' message of love. In spite of this, Christianity continues to spread. Whether we are threatened for our beliefs or not, whether we are missionaries to far off lands, or only in our own households, it takes courage to live Jesus' message of love and justice in today's world. The message remains the same, and the fear of powerful people that this message could make them lose some of that power will always be there. Let Peter and the early apostles be our models. The Holy Spirit was on their side, and will also be with us.

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 King James Bible App. Inspiration: Timothy was a pastor, appointed by Paul to care for a congregation of God's people. He was an "elder, " but was not especially "elderly. " Some might be tempted not to listen to him because of his youth and presumed lack of wisdom. But Paul instructs him to preach God's Word boldy and to live out an example all of God's people could desire to emulate. Prayer: Let us have respect to your Word, O Lord, and not so much to the men who preach or teach it. If we see a Christian living a holy example and teaching us the great truths found in your Book, let us not distrust him because of his youth but rejoice in what God is doing with him. Let us also be quick to learn from and benefit from such a minister of the Gospel. Amen.

Did you ever study Geometry? Maybe there's another subject or procedure that you found difficult to understand. We can learn all the rules, but until we actually see how they work, we don't get it. When I was beginning to learn how to use a computer, the person trying to teach me said that you just to this and then that and it will work. Then he left, and I had no idea about what he had just said. I needed step by step instruction while I did the work. Jesus has told the apostles that he would suffer, die and rise again. They didn't understand. They had been taught about the Messiah and what was written about him in the Scriptures, but they still didn't recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Now, Jesus sat with them and reminded them of everything he had told them. He also pointed out the passages in Scripture that referred to him so that they would be able to teach others. After all, you can't teach what you don't understand. I can't point out all of the passages in the prophets or the psalms that refer to Jesus, although I do know some of the ones from Micah, Isaiah, and the psalms, especially psalm 22. Once reminded, I'm sure the apostles could see the connections. Jesus knew that it was a lot to grasp at once and for that reason he had promised to send the Holy Spirit to help them. We, too, have the Holy Spirit to help us to understand the teachings of Jesus. All we need is to call upon him as Jesus tells us.

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. Acts 14:22 King James Bible App. Inspiration: What is your mission field? Where is God sending you? For some, this may mean becoming a foreign missionary. For others, this may mean ministering to those in their cities and neighborhoods. For some, it may mean ministering to the people in their own homes. When you become a believer, you are called to share this message with others and to encourage others in their faith. No matter where God has called you, you will face hardships, but we must endure these hard times to see the kingdom of God. Be encouraged! Prayer: Dear God, give me eyes to see where you are sending me to minister. Give me a heart like yours that Is broken for those who do not know you. Give me the words to speak and share your truth with those who need it. When I face hardships, help me remember that this is to be expected, but remind me that though I face hardships, I will see your kingdom. May I be your hands and feet here on Earth, O Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.

They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. Psalms 34:5 King James Bible App. Inspiration: Those who look to God and seek refuge in Him will always have peace and be at rest. When others are looking crestfallen and hopeless, the people who look to God will look different. It's in these times that people often come to Christians and ask them why they look so happy, and this always presents a perfect opportunity to evangelize. Prayer: Dear God, I know that when I look at You, in good and bad times, all will be well with my soul. Lord, I pray that in such times, may I be full of joy and may those around me notice so that I will be able to speak to them of the assurance I have in You. I pray that this will compel those who are not saved, to seek You, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

What a beautiful psalm to pray and sing during this week following our celebration of the Resurrection! It's just one more reminder that we need to give praise and thanks to God at all times and also that we are to tell others about how good God has been to us. When I was in Haiti, there was an old woman – almost ninety – who live alone without running water, or electricity. She spent her days lying on a mat and was totally dependent on her neighbors for food and personal care. During a home visit by the priest in the community, she was asked how she spent her day. She answered that she remembered and she prayed. She was waiting patiently for God to bring her to join her family that had gone before her. Both her faith and the love shown her by her neighbors were witnesses of God's presence in that community. As I read this psalm today, I could hear the melody in my head of these words as I sing them in church. After all, the psalms are songs and meant to be sung! Think about it! Doesn't music have an effect on us? I once had a friend who found it difficult to pray. She said that she just could never find the right words to express how she felt. Then she went on a weekend retreat. What she discovered on that retreat was that her music was her prayer! Perhaps we have trouble finding the words to express our feelings also. If we do, then we should look to the psalms and sing them. Give thanks to our Lord, for he is good, his mercy is everlasting!

Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD. Ezekiel 38:23 King James Bible App. Inspiration: There will be trouble in this world. There is darkness that is prevalent. Have you sensed it? Have you noticed the culture changing to appease society rather than God? While it may seem like nations are turning through backs on the Lord, he will not be forgotten. The Lord will make himself known. While we do not know his ways, we have faith that he will show his greatness and holiness. For those who believe, we can cling to this promise. In the end, every knee will bow and every nation will worship the Lord. Prayer: Dear God, you rule over all the nations. When it seems like nations are turning away from you, we know that you will show your holiness. Your holiness will not be hidden. We can trust your promises that every nation will worship you and every knee will bow when your glory is revealed. I bow down to you, O Lord. May my life glorify your name and draw others to you. Use me to turn those in my community back to you, God. In Jesus' name, amen.

Peter is reminding the Jewish people standing in front of him of the promised Messiah. He tells them how Jesus has fulfilled that prophesy and that now they need to accept him and be baptized in his name. They are the chosen ones; the promise has been fulfilled; what more do they need to know? It is written that about three thousand were baptized that day. But Peter is talking about more people than those there in Jerusalem that day. He mentions those who are far off. That includes us! Even from the start, the apostles knew that this was only the beginning of what would become Christianity. For a while, the followers of Jesus were considered to form a sect within Judaism. It was only later, when it was obvious that this was causing major problems with the Romans, that they were kicked out of the synagogues and were not welcome in the temple. Just as Jesus had predicted and the Pharisees had feared, Jerusalem fell to the Romans and the temple was destroyed. At that point, Christianity became a religion on its own. By this time, followers of "the Way" could be found throughout the Middle East and Europe. More were added as people saw how well they cared for one another and continued to thrive in spite of continued persecution by the Romans. We know that the Jewish converts were not happy when Gentiles began to believe in Jesus through the efforts of Paul, but eventually saw that salvation was for all. We need to thank Paul and those who listened to him as they prepared the way for us.

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Galatians 5:1 King James Bible App. Inspiration: We are indeed sinful, and we cannot save ourselves or deliver ourselves from our wickedness. We deserve death and punishment for our evil. So as Paul asked, "Who will deliver me from this body of death? " Here is the answer: Jesus Christ can deliver us from the body of death! Jesus can set us free from the bondage of sin that entangles us! And once he sets us free, we are free forever. Prayer: LORD, You sent Your son so that I could be free. We sinned; we made mistakes, but You still cared for us. You made a way for us. It boggles my mind how much You care for us – for me. Deliver me through Your son. Set me free of my sin and transgressions. I come to You in the name of Jesus, who has covered and washed me. Amen.

With summer just around the corner, here are just a few teen-approved romances, perfect for summer reading!

✨AUDRE & BASH ARE JUST FRIENDS by @tiawilliams.bsky.social
✨6 TIMES WE ALMOST KISSED (AND ONE TIME WE DID by @sharpegirl.bsky.social
✨I WAS TOLD THERE WOULD BE ROMANCE by Marie Arnold

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Psalms 23:5 King James Bible App. Inspiration: As Christians, we don't need to worry about the people who oppose us. Even if we have enemies, we should ensure that we are enemies to none, with the love in our heart. God has got us so covered that He will prosper us in the presence of our enemies. We don't need to pray for fire to consume them – they are people too. All we need to continue doing is pray for them and hope that they come around and embrace God's love too. Prayer: Dear God, I'd like to take this time out to pray for anyone who sees themselves as my enemies. Father, I do not desire that they perish but rather they come into the knowledge of You. I pray that they get to experience Your love and Your goodness, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

The Art of Loving You by Natasha Bishop

Sorry to everything I was reading because I just got this pre-order in the mail today and I'm about to read it now. Gotta love book mail! #BookSky #BlackBookSky

Home and Away by Rochelle Alers // A Bookmarked Review #historicalfiction #novelreview YouTube video by BookMarked!

⚾📚New Book Review- I love history and baseball, so Home and Away by Rochelle Alers was a home run for me! This historical fiction kept me engaged around all the bases. Watch my full YouTube review: youtu.be/pDYPDEaSSWE

#BookSky #BlackBookSky #HistoricalFiction #BlackAuthors #BlackCreators

On the first day of the week, the women came to the tomb to perform the burial rites for Jesus as they had not had the time to anoint his body before it was buried. Imagine their surprise when they found the stone rolled back and the tomb empty of Jesus' body and an angel sitting there waiting for them. He told them that Jesus had risen and was going before them into Galilee and they were to go and tell the disciples. Then, Jesus, himself, greeted them. Can you even begin to imagine their wonder and joy? In this, Matthew's Gospel, the disciples believe them and do go to Galilee where Jesus met them. In the other Gospel accounts, they were suspicious of the women's account and had to go see for themselves that it was true. What was our reaction to the resurrection when we first heard it? Did you immediately believe, or did you have doubts? Faith is an interesting thing. It really doesn't become our own until we examine our beliefs and test them. The women didn't need to believe that Jesus had risen because they saw and heard him themselves. The disciples weren't convinced. First, they had to check it for themselves. They were still trying to wrap their heads around his crucifixion. Jesus had warned them, but they didn't understand what he was trying to tell them. Even Peter, James and John who had witnessed his transfiguration didn't get it. And so Peter and John hurried to the tomb to check it out. It's okay for us to have doubts as well. The more we read Scripture and see how God is acting in our lives, the more our faith becomes truly our own.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 King James Bible App. Inspiration: In verse 10 of this chapter, "Israel His (God's) people" is referenced; in verse 11, "My people" is used in reference to Israel; and in verse 14, "My people" does not change reference. It refers to Israel. Thus, God says here that if Israel His people will humble themselves and repent of their wicked ways, He will heal their land. God will deal the same with any other nation, healing their land if national repentance takes place. But today, the only hope for national repentance is if repentance begins in the Church of God, for the world knows not God. Prayer: O Lord, we need not twist this verse to refer to the Church instead of Israel in order to learn its principle and apply it in our day and situation. It is true today as it was then that you will hear and heal when men of any nation turn from their wicked ways. We pray for such a revival, for we badly need it. We know that such a revival will need to begin in the Church. We pray you will revive each one of us and begin a mighty work, for which you will get all the glory. Amen.