• Brethren, it is human nature to desire honor. We wish to be first, to be important, to sit at the head of the table. Yet Christ tells us, “When you are invited…sit at the last place” (Lk. 14:8-10). Then the one who invited you will have opportunity to say, “Friend, move up higher” (Lk. 14:10).

    This is a lesson in humility. Many times over Scripture exhorts us to be humble; for Christ showed the ultimate humility in laying aside His glory in taking on flesh to sacrifice Himself for us. So we are instructed, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4).

    We are admonished, “God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble” (Jas. 4:6). We are encouraged, young and old alike, to clothe ourselves with humility toward one another (1 Pet. 5:5). And most importantly, we are commanded to humble ourselves before God and, like the one making invitation in Luke, He will exalt us at the proper time (Jas. 4:10; 1 Pet. 5:6).

    Dear Christian, do not allow pride to bring you down. Instead, humble yourself, and God will give you wisdom and honor (Pr. 11:2, 29:23).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, December 23

    "Friend, go up higher." Luke 14:10

    When first the life of grace begins in the soul, we do indeed draw near to God, but it is with great fear and trembling. The soul conscious of guilt, and humbled thereby, is overawed with the solemnity of its position; it is cast to the earth by a sense of the grandeur of Jehovah, in whose presence it stands. With unfeigned bashfulness it takes the lowest room.

    But, in after life, as the Christian grows in grace, although he will never forget the solemnity of his position, and will never lose that holy awe which must encompass a gracious man when he is in the presence of the God who can create or can destroy; yet his fear has all its terror taken out of it; it becomes a holy reverence, and no more an overshadowing dread. He is called up higher, to greater access to God in Christ Jesus. Then the man of God, walking amid the splendours of Deity, and veiling his face like the glorious cherubim, with those twin wings, the blood and righteousness of Jesus Christ, will, reverent and bowed in spirit, approach the throne; and seeing there a God of love, of goodness, and of mercy, he will realize rather the covenant character of God than His absolute Deity. He will see in God rather His goodness than His greatness, and more of His love than of His majesty. Then will the soul, bowing still as humbly as aforetime, enjoy a more sacred liberty of intercession; for while prostrate before the glory of the Infinite God, it will be sustained by the refreshing consciousness of being in the presence of boundless mercy and infinite love, and by the realization of acceptance "in the Beloved." Thus the believer is bidden to come up higher, and is enabled to exercise the privilege of rejoicing in God, and drawing near to Him in holy confidence, saying, "Abba, Father."

    So may we go from strength to strength,
    And daily grow in grace,
    Till in Thine image raised at length,
    We see Thee face to face.
    Brethren, it is human nature to desire honor. We wish to be first, to be important, to sit at the head of the table. Yet Christ tells us, “When you are invited…sit at the last place” (Lk. 14:8-10). Then the one who invited you will have opportunity to say, “Friend, move up higher” (Lk. 14:10). This is a lesson in humility. Many times over Scripture exhorts us to be humble; for Christ showed the ultimate humility in laying aside His glory in taking on flesh to sacrifice Himself for us. So we are instructed, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4). We are admonished, “God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble” (Jas. 4:6). We are encouraged, young and old alike, to clothe ourselves with humility toward one another (1 Pet. 5:5). And most importantly, we are commanded to humble ourselves before God and, like the one making invitation in Luke, He will exalt us at the proper time (Jas. 4:10; 1 Pet. 5:6). Dear Christian, do not allow pride to bring you down. Instead, humble yourself, and God will give you wisdom and honor (Pr. 11:2, 29:23). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, December 23 "Friend, go up higher." Luke 14:10 When first the life of grace begins in the soul, we do indeed draw near to God, but it is with great fear and trembling. The soul conscious of guilt, and humbled thereby, is overawed with the solemnity of its position; it is cast to the earth by a sense of the grandeur of Jehovah, in whose presence it stands. With unfeigned bashfulness it takes the lowest room. But, in after life, as the Christian grows in grace, although he will never forget the solemnity of his position, and will never lose that holy awe which must encompass a gracious man when he is in the presence of the God who can create or can destroy; yet his fear has all its terror taken out of it; it becomes a holy reverence, and no more an overshadowing dread. He is called up higher, to greater access to God in Christ Jesus. Then the man of God, walking amid the splendours of Deity, and veiling his face like the glorious cherubim, with those twin wings, the blood and righteousness of Jesus Christ, will, reverent and bowed in spirit, approach the throne; and seeing there a God of love, of goodness, and of mercy, he will realize rather the covenant character of God than His absolute Deity. He will see in God rather His goodness than His greatness, and more of His love than of His majesty. Then will the soul, bowing still as humbly as aforetime, enjoy a more sacred liberty of intercession; for while prostrate before the glory of the Infinite God, it will be sustained by the refreshing consciousness of being in the presence of boundless mercy and infinite love, and by the realization of acceptance "in the Beloved." Thus the believer is bidden to come up higher, and is enabled to exercise the privilege of rejoicing in God, and drawing near to Him in holy confidence, saying, "Abba, Father." So may we go from strength to strength, And daily grow in grace, Till in Thine image raised at length, We see Thee face to face.
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  • #Bioweapons Whistleblower Found Dead Ahead Of Testimony Against #BillGates & Albert Bourla On CONvid Shots (Video) #Covid #Covid19 - In a strange but expected turn of events, bioweapons whistleblower Professor Francis Boyle was found dead just days before he was to testify against Bill #Gates and #Pfizer CEO #AlbertBourla regarding the deadly nature of the CONvid shots. https://thewashingtonstandard.com/bioweapons-whistleblower-found-dead-ahead-of-testimony-against-bill-gates-albert-bourla-on-convid-shots-video/
    #Bioweapons Whistleblower Found Dead Ahead Of Testimony Against #BillGates & Albert Bourla On CONvid Shots (Video) #Covid #Covid19 - In a strange but expected turn of events, bioweapons whistleblower Professor Francis Boyle was found dead just days before he was to testify against Bill #Gates and #Pfizer CEO #AlbertBourla regarding the deadly nature of the CONvid shots. https://thewashingtonstandard.com/bioweapons-whistleblower-found-dead-ahead-of-testimony-against-bill-gates-albert-bourla-on-convid-shots-video/
    THEWASHINGTONSTANDARD.COM
    Bioweapons Whistleblower Found Dead Ahead Of Testimony Against Bill Gates & Albert Bourla On CONvid Shots (Video) – The Washington Standard
    In a strange but expected turn of events, bioweapons whistleblower Professor Francis Boyle was found dead just days before he was to testify against Bill Gates and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla regarding the deadly nature of the CONvid shots. The People’s Voice reports: Dr. Francis Boyle—the Harvard professor who literally wrote the America’s 1989 Biological […]
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  • https://thefederalist.com/2025/12/17/fulton-county-we-dont-dispute-315000-votes-lacking-poll-workers-signatures-were-counted-in-2020/
    https://thefederalist.com/2025/12/17/fulton-county-we-dont-dispute-315000-votes-lacking-poll-workers-signatures-were-counted-in-2020/
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  • Joy to the world! The LORD is come!
    Let earth receive her KING!
    Let every heart prepare Him room,
    And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing,
    And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing!
    #SundaySentiments
    Joy to the world! The LORD is come! Let earth receive her KING! Let every heart prepare Him room, And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing! #SundaySentiments
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  • It has been long believed that the famous Stonehenge monoliths were not transported by men but by the processes of nature and that they were just simply erected but now upon further study, scientists believe that the stones were not transported to their present location by any act of nature at all but by people, but as to how men were able to transport the stones remains undetermined.
    https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14928191/Stonehenge-mystery-SOLVED-boulder-transported.html?ito=push-notification&ci=UfGpRO_hcQ&cri=nnIdRlQ8HU&si=DjsGEsUcCwi7&xi=8102ee85-8eee-4c80-adf9-4540e8140d66&ai=14928191
    It has been long believed that the famous Stonehenge monoliths were not transported by men but by the processes of nature and that they were just simply erected but now upon further study, scientists believe that the stones were not transported to their present location by any act of nature at all but by people, but as to how men were able to transport the stones remains undetermined. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14928191/Stonehenge-mystery-SOLVED-boulder-transported.html?ito=push-notification&ci=UfGpRO_hcQ&cri=nnIdRlQ8HU&si=DjsGEsUcCwi7&xi=8102ee85-8eee-4c80-adf9-4540e8140d66&ai=14928191
    WWW.DAILYMAIL.CO.UK
    Stonehenge mystery is SOLVED after 5,000 years
    It's the monument that's baffled scientists for hundreds of years. But now, experts may have finally solved one of Stonehenge's greatest mysteries.
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  • Brethren, Peter tells us that Christ set an example that we should follow. That example was one of quiet suffering, of self-sacrifice. It is an example that many who take His name often do not emulate. Many even, falsely, preach that Christ set a different example, one of opulence and comfort.

    But Jesus Himself told us what it takes to follow Him: “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Lk. 9:23). The Christian life is not a life of ease, it is a battle, and one in which we are called to give ourselves up.

    Paul expounded this reality when he wrote, “I am crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). This is our call. We must set aside our personal wants, we must crucify the flesh with its passions and desires (Gal. 5:24), and seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Mt. 6:33).

    Dear Christian, I exhort you today - consider for what or whom you are living. Are you indulging the flesh, or are you walking in the Spirit and denying the flesh? You cannot serve two masters (Mt. 6:24), so choose this day whom you will serve (Josh. 24:15).

    ——————-
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, December 14

    "I am crucified with Christ." Galatians 2:20

    The Lord Jesus Christ acted in what He did as a great public representative person, and His dying upon the cross was the virtual dying of all His people. Then all His saints rendered unto justice what was due, and made an expiation to divine vengeance for all their sins. The apostle of the Gentiles delighted to think that as one of Christ's chosen people, he died upon the cross in Christ. He did more than believe this doctrinally, he accepted it confidently, resting his hope upon it. He believed that by virtue of Christ's death, he had satisfied divine justice, and found reconciliation with God. Beloved, what a blessed thing it is when the soul can, as it were, stretch itself upon the cross of Christ, and feel, "I am dead; the law has slain me, and I am therefore free from its power, because in my Surety I have borne the curse, and in the person of my Substitute the whole that the law could do, by way of condemnation, has been executed upon me, for I am crucified with Christ."

    But Paul meant even more than this. He not only believed in Christ's death, and trusted in it, but he actually felt its power in himself in causing the crucifixion of his old corrupt nature. When he saw the pleasures of sin, he said, "I cannot enjoy these: I am dead to them." Such is the experience of every true Christian. Having received Christ, he is to this world as one who is utterly dead. Yet, while conscious of death to the world, he can, at the same time, exclaim with the apostle, "Nevertheless I live." He is fully alive unto God. The Christian's life is a matchless riddle. No worldling can comprehend it; even the believer himself cannot understand it. Dead, yet alive! crucified with Christ, and yet at the same time risen with Christ in newness of life! Union with the suffering, bleeding Saviour, and death to the world and sin, are soul-cheering things. O for more enjoyment of them!
    Brethren, Peter tells us that Christ set an example that we should follow. That example was one of quiet suffering, of self-sacrifice. It is an example that many who take His name often do not emulate. Many even, falsely, preach that Christ set a different example, one of opulence and comfort. But Jesus Himself told us what it takes to follow Him: “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Lk. 9:23). The Christian life is not a life of ease, it is a battle, and one in which we are called to give ourselves up. Paul expounded this reality when he wrote, “I am crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). This is our call. We must set aside our personal wants, we must crucify the flesh with its passions and desires (Gal. 5:24), and seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Mt. 6:33). Dear Christian, I exhort you today - consider for what or whom you are living. Are you indulging the flesh, or are you walking in the Spirit and denying the flesh? You cannot serve two masters (Mt. 6:24), so choose this day whom you will serve (Josh. 24:15). ——————- Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, December 14 "I am crucified with Christ." Galatians 2:20 The Lord Jesus Christ acted in what He did as a great public representative person, and His dying upon the cross was the virtual dying of all His people. Then all His saints rendered unto justice what was due, and made an expiation to divine vengeance for all their sins. The apostle of the Gentiles delighted to think that as one of Christ's chosen people, he died upon the cross in Christ. He did more than believe this doctrinally, he accepted it confidently, resting his hope upon it. He believed that by virtue of Christ's death, he had satisfied divine justice, and found reconciliation with God. Beloved, what a blessed thing it is when the soul can, as it were, stretch itself upon the cross of Christ, and feel, "I am dead; the law has slain me, and I am therefore free from its power, because in my Surety I have borne the curse, and in the person of my Substitute the whole that the law could do, by way of condemnation, has been executed upon me, for I am crucified with Christ." But Paul meant even more than this. He not only believed in Christ's death, and trusted in it, but he actually felt its power in himself in causing the crucifixion of his old corrupt nature. When he saw the pleasures of sin, he said, "I cannot enjoy these: I am dead to them." Such is the experience of every true Christian. Having received Christ, he is to this world as one who is utterly dead. Yet, while conscious of death to the world, he can, at the same time, exclaim with the apostle, "Nevertheless I live." He is fully alive unto God. The Christian's life is a matchless riddle. No worldling can comprehend it; even the believer himself cannot understand it. Dead, yet alive! crucified with Christ, and yet at the same time risen with Christ in newness of life! Union with the suffering, bleeding Saviour, and death to the world and sin, are soul-cheering things. O for more enjoyment of them!
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  • Joy to the world! The LORD is come;
    Let earth receive her KING;
    Let every heart prepare Him room,
    And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing,
    And heaven, and heaven and nature sing...
    #SaturdaySentiments
    Joy to the world! The LORD is come; Let earth receive her KING; Let every heart prepare Him room, And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing... #SaturdaySentiments
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  • Operation #Mockingbird and the Nature of Participatory #Propaganda#DNI #TulsiGabbard recently made an interesting statement that surely resonates with the #conservative audience. She said that Operation Mockingbird was alive and well, and still being used to undermine #DonaldTrump, and all of the wonderful things he is accomplishing. https://defenseofournation.com/uncategorized/operation-mockingbird-and-the-nature-of-participatory-propaganda/
    Operation #Mockingbird and the Nature of Participatory #Propaganda – #DNI #TulsiGabbard recently made an interesting statement that surely resonates with the #conservative audience. She said that Operation Mockingbird was alive and well, and still being used to undermine #DonaldTrump, and all of the wonderful things he is accomplishing. https://defenseofournation.com/uncategorized/operation-mockingbird-and-the-nature-of-participatory-propaganda/
    DEFENSEOFOURNATION.COM
    Operation Mockingbird and the Nature of Participatory Propaganda
    Tulsi Gabbard recently made an interesting statement that surely resonates with the conservative audience. She said that Operation Mockingbird was alive and well, and still being used to undermine President Trump, and all of the wonderful things he is accomplishing. Operation Mockingbird is believed to be a propaganda operation involving the CIA's infiltration of the mainstream media, and their attempts to shape and manipulate public perceptions. Started in the 1940s by a man named Frank Wisner, an undercover foreign service operator for the State Department, Operation Mockingbird was a psychological warfare operation originally aimed at using propaganda to influence foreign governments through media outlets. Wisner, however, had controlling interests in American media as well. He later recruited Philip Graham, owner of The Washington Post, and graduate of the Army intelligence school, to oversee Operation Mockingbird. The effects of media broadcasts on the American psyche have been studied for many years. A massive study took place following The War of The Worlds radio broadcast which sought to determine why so many people believed it to be a real event. The study was conducted by Hadley Cantrill, who was then head of the Office of Strategic Services, which of course, was the forerunner to the CIA. Cantrill was also involved in something called the Princeton Radio Project, which was also meant to study the effects of American propaganda being used overseas. These studies were largely funded by the Rockefeller foundation. One of the major findings of The War of The Worlds study was that people had a natural tendency to trust media figures. The study provided so much insight into people's behavior during times of panic that Cantrill said it may very well be the prototype for future studies. This occurred at a time when propaganda and persuasion were being studied as a new way to influence public opinion. Tulsi Gabbard isn't lying when she says Operation Mockingbird is alive and well. She is targeting the audience with a message that resonates with their emotions, attitudes and beliefs--the mainstream media is against President Trump. This message, however, is being used as a deceptive tactic to keep drawing people away from an issue they once cared deeply about. With each passing day the Epstein issue drifts further away from public consciousness, as the conservative media is working frantically to disassociate Trump, in any way they can, from the Epstein mess. In other words, while there is truth in Gabbard's comment, it is--in its own way--propaganda that reflects the beliefs of the targeted audience. The American people are living in a delusion. They are mesmerized by a misguided belief that the media exists to keep them informed of daily events that have an impact on our life. This is simply not true. According to the book Media effects: Advances in Theory and Research, the media exists largely to overcome the psychological barriers to social change. This applies to conservative media as well. There is a high level of cognitive dissonance among conservatives who believe that Fox News is presenting them with the truth when Rupert Murdoch is known to have contributed millions to the Clinton's, and other prominent Democrats. Some people may not see that as being problematic; however, it doesn't align with the perception that Fox News tries to maintain. The bigger truth here is that the conservative and liberal media outlets exist to keep the illusion of conflict between the left and right alive. American's who are engaged and committed to this perception of all out cultural war are unknowingly taking part in something called participatory propaganda. The active participation in the conflict itself helps solidify a perception of reality through the control and propagation of information related to this deliberately created social strife. By engaging in the conflict at all, the public is allowing the propagandist to manipulate the attitudes and beliefs of those engaged while using social media as a means of thrusting these beliefs into the public sphere, which are then shared by those who hold similar views. This is referred to as the socialization of conflict. We are living in a time when our perceptions of reality, and our beliefs, are formed through our social media experiences. Every day we see memes depicting Donald Trump infuriating the left, at times to the point where the snowflake breaks down in tears. Or we read stories where the framing detracts from anything negative and only reflects the commonly held belief that only Trump can save us. More recently we have seen an attempt to move people away from Epstein with influencers hinting at the idea that all of Trump's other accomplishments outweigh the Epstein issue, and we need to keep supporting him despite the fact that he lied. The more these types of social media influences are shared or liked by viewers, the more they become cemented in the minds of the targeted audience. Have you ever asked yourself who created the memes you are sharing? The use of social media for propagating information has come to be known as a do-it-yourself misinformation campaign, as the state can rely on the citizenry to spread the lies being fed to them. In other words, there is a reason the government thinks you're stupid. How does all of this work? Propaganda is deceptive form of mass persuasion that attempts to influence the audience to accept the propagandist's point of view. It has been found when a message can be framed in a way that best aligns with the audience's pre-existing beliefs and attitudes, it is easier to gain compliance. For instance, the article, Psychological Targeting as an Effective Approach to Digital Mass Persuasion states that mass persuasion is more effective when tailored toward an individual or a group’s psychological traits, beliefs, and behaviors. This is something that is repeated often within the literature on the subject. When a message aligns with pre-existing beliefs, it becomes easier to manipulate that message, and guide people in a certain direction. We see this happening every day. The dominant belief among Trump voters is that he is draining the swamp and playing a game of four-dimensional chess. Another popular belief is that Trump is despised by the left, and the more they feed that perception, and frame the narrative from that point of view, the stronger the support becomes. Another example of this idea comes from the book Media, Propaganda, and Persuasion. The authors state that publicists must understand what the public thinks and feels in order to create an effective, resonating message. This alludes to the idea that before developing a persuasive message, the messenger must first study the beliefs and behaviors of the audience to effectively craft an appeal that has the potential to guide audiences in desired directions. Tulsi Gabbard, and the Trump administration for that matter, know that the conservative audience does not trust the liberal media. When stories are framed in a way that aligns with this belief, there is what researchers call--an anchor of resonance. This is a manipulation tactic that attaches itself to the beliefs of the audience so they can be guided in different directions. To give one more example, the book Persuasion and Propaganda, cites a paper called Persuasion and Democracy: Strategies for Increasing Deliberative Participation and Enacting Social Change. Propaganda attempts to move a recipient to a predetermined point of view, the authors state, by using simple images and slogans that truncates thought by playing on prejudices and emotions (p. 190.) This is something we also see every day, on both the left and right. Slogans like MAGA, Hope and Change, and drain the swamp, are simple messages meant to captivate the group consciousness and subvert logical thinking. They attach themselves to the emotional makeup of the targeted audience, acting as a resonating anchor, while being used to reinforce the intent of the message. The average person will not stop to ask themselves what the real differences between those two messages are. For example, what type of change were people hoping for? To restore America to their own perceptions of greatness. In essence, they were also wanting to make America great again, only from their point of view. MAGA and Hope and Change were the same message made to resonate with different audiences and their pre-existing attitudes. Tulsi Gabbard is absolutely telling the truth. Operation Mockingbird is alive and well and can be traced back to early twentieth century when propaganda and persuasion were falling under the same academic umbrella of study. It was more than simply lying to the American public but lying with the intent of understanding how the public reacts. Once the general attitudes and beliefs of the audience are understood, messages can be better framed to induce compliance. The conservative audience is enthralled with the idea that Trump is some kind of superhero who has the power to infuriate and befuddle the left, expose the deep state, and outsmart world leaders on a scale never seen before. If you are ever unsure about this, all you have to do is listen to Trump talk about himself and he will tell you how great he is. Gabbard's comments not only reflect the beliefs of the audience, but they also reinforce these beliefs as people are desperately trying to justify their continued adoration with a man who just days ago, told them he no longer wanted their support if they believed the Epstein hoax. Voter attitudes are studied, and messages are created to resonate with those attitudes in an effort to get the voters to turn their brains off and just follow along. For example, one way they do this is through a data mining company called Cambridge Analytica. For as hard as they try to portray Trump and Obama as being complete opposites, the one thing they have in common is they both employed this company to collect data on your attitudes, beliefs and behaviors so they could better propagandize you. For more information on propaganda and the psychology of persuasion visit www.defenseofournation.com or you can check out my books. And Without a Shot Indeed: Inducing Compliance to Tyranny Through Conditioning and Persuasion. A Critical Look at CRT in Education, Research and Social Policy, now available in paperback.
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  • Christian, survey yourself. You call yourself “Christian,” which once was a pejorative, but now is a self-applied appellation of faith. How often do you consider the implications of having laid claim to this title?

    As Christians, we are called as His disciples not only to follow Christ and His teachings but also to reflect Christ Himself. For we were “predestined to become conformed to the image” of Christ (Rom. 8:29). According to Paul, we are as He is, for “as is the heavenly, so also are those who are heavenly (1 Cor. 15:48).

    Paul says this in a comparison of having been born in Adam to having been born in Christ (1 Cor. 15:47-48). We have been born in Christ, and therefore are “those who are heavenly.”

    What then, Christian? Do you live as if still of Adam? Are you “earthy” instead of “heavenly”? Or have you been crucified with Christ, and now allow Him to live through you, living this life in the flesh by faith in the Son of God who loved you and gave Himself up for you (Gal. 2:20)?

    Brethren, let us live as those worthy of the calling to which we have been called (Eph. 4:1), and be no longer conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2) that we may make known to this world the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 1:16).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, December 6

    "As is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly." 1 Corinthians 15:48

    The head and members are of one nature, and not like that monstrous image which Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream. The head was of fine gold, but the belly and thighs were of brass, the legs of iron, and the feet, part of iron and part of clay. Christ's mystical body is no absurd combination of opposites; the members were mortal, and therefore Jesus died; the glorified head is immortal, and therefore the body is immortal too, for thus the record stands, "Because I live, ye shall live also." As is our loving Head, such is the body, and every member in particular. A chosen Head and chosen members; an accepted Head, and accepted members; a living Head, and living members. If the head be pure gold, all the parts of the body are of pure gold also. Thus is there a double union of nature as a basis for the closest communion. Pause here, devout reader, and see if thou canst without ecstatic amazement, contemplate the infinite condescension of the Son of God in thus exalting thy wretchedness into blessed union with His glory. Thou art so mean that in remembrance of thy mortality, thou mayest say to corruption, "Thou art my father," and to the worm, "Thou art my sister"; and yet in Christ thou art so honoured that thou canst say to the Almighty, "Abba, Father," and to the Incarnate God, "Thou art my brother and my husband." Surely if relationships to ancient and noble families make men think highly of themselves, we have whereof to glory over the heads of them all. Let the poorest and most despised believer lay hold upon this privilege; let not a senseless indolence make him negligent to trace his pedigree, and let him suffer no foolish attachment to present vanities to occupy his thoughts to the exclusion of this glorious, this heavenly honour of union with Christ.
    Christian, survey yourself. You call yourself “Christian,” which once was a pejorative, but now is a self-applied appellation of faith. How often do you consider the implications of having laid claim to this title? As Christians, we are called as His disciples not only to follow Christ and His teachings but also to reflect Christ Himself. For we were “predestined to become conformed to the image” of Christ (Rom. 8:29). According to Paul, we are as He is, for “as is the heavenly, so also are those who are heavenly (1 Cor. 15:48). Paul says this in a comparison of having been born in Adam to having been born in Christ (1 Cor. 15:47-48). We have been born in Christ, and therefore are “those who are heavenly.” What then, Christian? Do you live as if still of Adam? Are you “earthy” instead of “heavenly”? Or have you been crucified with Christ, and now allow Him to live through you, living this life in the flesh by faith in the Son of God who loved you and gave Himself up for you (Gal. 2:20)? Brethren, let us live as those worthy of the calling to which we have been called (Eph. 4:1), and be no longer conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2) that we may make known to this world the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 1:16). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, December 6 "As is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly." 1 Corinthians 15:48 The head and members are of one nature, and not like that monstrous image which Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream. The head was of fine gold, but the belly and thighs were of brass, the legs of iron, and the feet, part of iron and part of clay. Christ's mystical body is no absurd combination of opposites; the members were mortal, and therefore Jesus died; the glorified head is immortal, and therefore the body is immortal too, for thus the record stands, "Because I live, ye shall live also." As is our loving Head, such is the body, and every member in particular. A chosen Head and chosen members; an accepted Head, and accepted members; a living Head, and living members. If the head be pure gold, all the parts of the body are of pure gold also. Thus is there a double union of nature as a basis for the closest communion. Pause here, devout reader, and see if thou canst without ecstatic amazement, contemplate the infinite condescension of the Son of God in thus exalting thy wretchedness into blessed union with His glory. Thou art so mean that in remembrance of thy mortality, thou mayest say to corruption, "Thou art my father," and to the worm, "Thou art my sister"; and yet in Christ thou art so honoured that thou canst say to the Almighty, "Abba, Father," and to the Incarnate God, "Thou art my brother and my husband." Surely if relationships to ancient and noble families make men think highly of themselves, we have whereof to glory over the heads of them all. Let the poorest and most despised believer lay hold upon this privilege; let not a senseless indolence make him negligent to trace his pedigree, and let him suffer no foolish attachment to present vanities to occupy his thoughts to the exclusion of this glorious, this heavenly honour of union with Christ.
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  • Scientists try once more to scare the world into adopting and conforming to climate change policy by blaming climate change for the decrease in flying insects but nature is more adaptable than most people give it credit for.
    https://www.livescience.com/animals/insects/a-looming-insect-apocalypse-could-endanger-global-food-supplies-can-we-stop-it-before-its-too-late?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pushly&utm_campaign=All%20Push%20Subscribers
    Scientists try once more to scare the world into adopting and conforming to climate change policy by blaming climate change for the decrease in flying insects but nature is more adaptable than most people give it credit for. https://www.livescience.com/animals/insects/a-looming-insect-apocalypse-could-endanger-global-food-supplies-can-we-stop-it-before-its-too-late?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pushly&utm_campaign=All%20Push%20Subscribers
    WWW.LIVESCIENCE.COM
    A looming 'insect apocalypse' could endanger global food supplies. Can we stop it before it's too late?
    Insect populations are in steep decline, which could endanger the food supply. But there are things we can do to reverse the trend.
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  • #ADHD diagnoses are growing. What’s going on? https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-03855-2
    #ADHD diagnoses are growing. What’s going on? https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-03855-2
    WWW.NATURE.COM
    ADHD diagnoses are growing. What’s going on?
    More children and adults are being diagnosed with ADHD in some countries. Science is helping to understand why — and how best to provide support.
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  • Dear Christians, criticism comes quickly and easily, and though reproof and correction are necessary, criticism can be destructive to the soul. As Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

    While it is easy to tear down, how often do we build up and encourage? More so, how often do we celebrate our brethren in living out the truth?

    John, in his third letter, exclaimed to Gaius, “I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth” (3 Jn. 1:3). Do you rejoice over our brethren walking in truth?

    After all, this is an aspect of love, it “rejoices with the truth” (1 Cor. 13:6).

    Therefore, while we rightly should exhort, reprove, correct one another with Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16), we also should be encouraging one another (Heb. 10:24-25), and rejoicing when we see our brethren walking in the light and in truth (1 Jn. 1:7; 3 Jn. 1:3).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, November 28

    "For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth." 3 John 3

    The truth was in Gaius, and Gaius walked in the truth. If the first had not been the case, the second could never have occurred; and if the second could not be said of him the first would have been a mere pretence. Truth must enter into the soul, penetrate and saturate it, or else it is of no value. Doctrines held as a matter of creed are like bread in the hand, which ministers no nourishment to the frame; but doctrine accepted by the heart, is as food digested, which, by assimilation, sustains and builds up the body. In us truth must be a living force, an active energy, an indwelling reality, a part of the woof and warp of our being. If it be in us, we cannot henceforth part with it. A man may lose his garments or his limbs, but his inward parts are vital, and cannot be torn away without absolute loss of life. A Christian can die, but he cannot deny the truth. Now it is a rule of nature that the inward affects the outward, as light shines from the centre of the lantern through the glass: when, therefore, the truth is kindled within, its brightness soon beams forth in the outward life and conversation. It is said that the food of certain worms colours the cocoons of silk which they spin: and just so the nutriment upon which a man's inward nature lives gives a tinge to every word and deed proceeding from him. To walk in the truth, imports a life of integrity, holiness, faithfulness, and simplicity- the natural product of those principles of truth which the gospel teaches, and which the Spirit of God enables us to receive. We may judge of the secrets of the soul by their manifestation in the man's conversation. Be it ours today, O gracious Spirit, to be ruled and governed by Thy divine authority, so that nothing false or sinful may reign in our hearts, lest it extend its malignant influence to our daily walk among men.
    Dear Christians, criticism comes quickly and easily, and though reproof and correction are necessary, criticism can be destructive to the soul. As Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” While it is easy to tear down, how often do we build up and encourage? More so, how often do we celebrate our brethren in living out the truth? John, in his third letter, exclaimed to Gaius, “I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth” (3 Jn. 1:3). Do you rejoice over our brethren walking in truth? After all, this is an aspect of love, it “rejoices with the truth” (1 Cor. 13:6). Therefore, while we rightly should exhort, reprove, correct one another with Scripture (2 Tim. 3:16), we also should be encouraging one another (Heb. 10:24-25), and rejoicing when we see our brethren walking in the light and in truth (1 Jn. 1:7; 3 Jn. 1:3). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, November 28 "For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth." 3 John 3 The truth was in Gaius, and Gaius walked in the truth. If the first had not been the case, the second could never have occurred; and if the second could not be said of him the first would have been a mere pretence. Truth must enter into the soul, penetrate and saturate it, or else it is of no value. Doctrines held as a matter of creed are like bread in the hand, which ministers no nourishment to the frame; but doctrine accepted by the heart, is as food digested, which, by assimilation, sustains and builds up the body. In us truth must be a living force, an active energy, an indwelling reality, a part of the woof and warp of our being. If it be in us, we cannot henceforth part with it. A man may lose his garments or his limbs, but his inward parts are vital, and cannot be torn away without absolute loss of life. A Christian can die, but he cannot deny the truth. Now it is a rule of nature that the inward affects the outward, as light shines from the centre of the lantern through the glass: when, therefore, the truth is kindled within, its brightness soon beams forth in the outward life and conversation. It is said that the food of certain worms colours the cocoons of silk which they spin: and just so the nutriment upon which a man's inward nature lives gives a tinge to every word and deed proceeding from him. To walk in the truth, imports a life of integrity, holiness, faithfulness, and simplicity- the natural product of those principles of truth which the gospel teaches, and which the Spirit of God enables us to receive. We may judge of the secrets of the soul by their manifestation in the man's conversation. Be it ours today, O gracious Spirit, to be ruled and governed by Thy divine authority, so that nothing false or sinful may reign in our hearts, lest it extend its malignant influence to our daily walk among men.
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  • Brethren, be thankful to the Lord, for He has chosen to show you mercy. Yes, showing you mercy is God’s choice, “For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion’” (Rom. 9:15).

    This is a difficult passage for many, but it reveals for us God’s sovereignty in all things. God is creator and upholder of all (Gen. 1; Heb. 1:3). All belongs to Him, as Scripture delcares, “The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it” (Psalm. 24:1). Does He then not have right to do with His possession as He pleases?

    Therefore, again I say, be thankful! For God has dealt mercifully with us, even though His mercy is undeserved. If He were to deal justly with all, all would be condemned, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23).

    We should neither decry nor dismiss God’s sovereignty; rather, we should be grateful for it. Left to ourselves, we would all stand condemned. Yet God, in His great mercy, according to His good pleasure, saves those who otherwise deserve it not.

    Therefore, be humble in your salvation, because all you have contributed to it is the sin that makes it necessary. And show mercy to others (Mt. 5:7), because as Jesus instructed, freely we have received, therefore freely we should give (Mt.10:8).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, November 25

    "For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." Romans 9:15

    In these words the Lord in the plainest manner claims the right to give or to withhold His mercy according to His own sovereign will. As the prerogative of life and death is vested in the monarch, so the Judge of all the earth has a right to spare or condemn the guilty, as may seem best in His sight. Men by their sins have forfeited all claim upon God; they deserve to perish for their sins- and if they all do so, they have no ground for complaint. If the Lord steps in to save any, He may do so if the ends of justice are not thwarted; but if He judges it best to leave the condemned to suffer the righteous sentence, none may arraign Him at their bar. Foolish and impudent are all those discourses about the rights of men to be all placed on the same footing; ignorant, if not worse, are those contentions against discriminating grace, which are but the rebellions of proud human nature against the crown and sceptre of Jehovah. When we are brought to see our own utter ruin and ill desert, and the justice of the divine verdict against sin, we no longer cavil at the truth that the Lord is not bound to save us; we do not murmur if He chooses to save others, as though He were doing us an injury, but feel that if He deigns to look upon us, it will be His own free act of undeserved goodness, for which we shall for ever bless His name.

    How shall those who are the subjects of divine election sufficiently adore the grace of God? They have no room for boasting, for sovereignty most effectually excludes it. The Lord's will alone is glorified, and the very notion of human merit is cast out to everlasting contempt. There is no more humbling doctrine in Scripture than that of election, none more promotive of gratitude, and, consequently, none more sanctifying. Believers should not be afraid of it, but adoringly rejoice in it.
    Brethren, be thankful to the Lord, for He has chosen to show you mercy. Yes, showing you mercy is God’s choice, “For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion’” (Rom. 9:15). This is a difficult passage for many, but it reveals for us God’s sovereignty in all things. God is creator and upholder of all (Gen. 1; Heb. 1:3). All belongs to Him, as Scripture delcares, “The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it” (Psalm. 24:1). Does He then not have right to do with His possession as He pleases? Therefore, again I say, be thankful! For God has dealt mercifully with us, even though His mercy is undeserved. If He were to deal justly with all, all would be condemned, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). We should neither decry nor dismiss God’s sovereignty; rather, we should be grateful for it. Left to ourselves, we would all stand condemned. Yet God, in His great mercy, according to His good pleasure, saves those who otherwise deserve it not. Therefore, be humble in your salvation, because all you have contributed to it is the sin that makes it necessary. And show mercy to others (Mt. 5:7), because as Jesus instructed, freely we have received, therefore freely we should give (Mt.10:8). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, November 25 "For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." Romans 9:15 In these words the Lord in the plainest manner claims the right to give or to withhold His mercy according to His own sovereign will. As the prerogative of life and death is vested in the monarch, so the Judge of all the earth has a right to spare or condemn the guilty, as may seem best in His sight. Men by their sins have forfeited all claim upon God; they deserve to perish for their sins- and if they all do so, they have no ground for complaint. If the Lord steps in to save any, He may do so if the ends of justice are not thwarted; but if He judges it best to leave the condemned to suffer the righteous sentence, none may arraign Him at their bar. Foolish and impudent are all those discourses about the rights of men to be all placed on the same footing; ignorant, if not worse, are those contentions against discriminating grace, which are but the rebellions of proud human nature against the crown and sceptre of Jehovah. When we are brought to see our own utter ruin and ill desert, and the justice of the divine verdict against sin, we no longer cavil at the truth that the Lord is not bound to save us; we do not murmur if He chooses to save others, as though He were doing us an injury, but feel that if He deigns to look upon us, it will be His own free act of undeserved goodness, for which we shall for ever bless His name. How shall those who are the subjects of divine election sufficiently adore the grace of God? They have no room for boasting, for sovereignty most effectually excludes it. The Lord's will alone is glorified, and the very notion of human merit is cast out to everlasting contempt. There is no more humbling doctrine in Scripture than that of election, none more promotive of gratitude, and, consequently, none more sanctifying. Believers should not be afraid of it, but adoringly rejoice in it.
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  • ???
    So Muslims are so civilized that they don't wipe at all?

    The US military built hundreds of bathrooms for them, they promptly plugged them up with the rocks they wipe their asses with...how civilized...

    "“Despite all their technology, Americans are so uncivilized and backward, they wipe themselves with toilet paper. Allah sent us to civilize them because they are the lowest form of human nature."

    https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/11/john-l-kachelman-jr-embracing-islamic-invasion/
    ??? So Muslims are so civilized that they don't wipe at all? The US military built hundreds of bathrooms for them, they promptly plugged them up with the rocks they wipe their asses with...how civilized... "“Despite all their technology, Americans are so uncivilized and backward, they wipe themselves with toilet paper. Allah sent us to civilize them because they are the lowest form of human nature." https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/11/john-l-kachelman-jr-embracing-islamic-invasion/
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  • We have become de-sensitized to the heinous nature of abortion. We don't even call it what it really is: murder.
    #SaturdaySentiments
    We have become de-sensitized to the heinous nature of abortion. We don't even call it what it really is: murder. #SaturdaySentiments
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  • The Christian life is one of walking in Christ. Jesus taught that whoever wishes to come after Him must deny himself and daily take up his cross and follow (Lk. 9:23). Paul himself said that he had been crucified with Christ, and that he no longer lived, but Christ lived in him (Gal. 2:20). This is the lot of the one who has received Christ Jesus the Lord (Col. 2:6).

    So then brethren, let us walk in Him. Let us be build up in Him. Let us be established in our faith. We do can do this by hiding God’s word in our heart (Ps. 119:9-11), by praying for one another, and by gathering together, encouraging one another, and stimulating one another to love and good deeds (Heb. 10:24-25).

    Only in this way may we pursue “the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). Only in this way can we put to death the flesh and the sin that dwells in our members (Rom. 7:23). We must walk in the spirit so that we may crucify the flesh and its desires (Gal. 5:16-24).

    So then, believer, just as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him (Col. 2:6).

    ——————

    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, November 8

    "As ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord." Colossians 2:6

    The life of faith is represented as receiving- an act which implies the very opposite of anything like merit. It is simply the acceptance of a gift. As the earth drinks in the rain, as the sea receives the streams, as night accepts light from the stars, so we, giving nothing, partake freely of the grace of God. The saints are not, by nature, wells, or streams, they are but cisterns into which the living water flows; they are empty vessels into which God pours His salvation. The idea of receiving implies a sense of realization, making the matter a reality. One cannot very well receive a shadow; we receive that which is substantial: so is it in the life of faith, Christ becomes real to us. While we are without faith, Jesus is a mere name to us- a person who lived a long while ago, so long ago that His life is only a history to us now! By an act of faith Jesus becomes a real person in the consciousness of our heart. But receiving also means grasping or getting possession of. The thing which I receive becomes my own: I appropriate to myself that which is given. When I receive Jesus, He becomes my Saviour, so mine that neither life nor death shall be able to rob me of Him. All this is to receive Christ- to take Him as God's free gift; to realize Him in my heart, and to appropriate Him as mine.

    Salvation may be described as the blind receiving sight, the deaf receiving hearing, the dead receiving life; but we have not only received these blessings, we have received CHRIST JESUS Himself. It is true that He gave us life from the dead. He gave us pardon of sin; He gave us imputed righteousness. These are all precious things, but we are not content with them; we have received Christ Himself. The Son of God has been poured into us, and we have received Him, and appropriated Him. What a heartful Jesus must be, for heaven itself cannot contain Him!
    The Christian life is one of walking in Christ. Jesus taught that whoever wishes to come after Him must deny himself and daily take up his cross and follow (Lk. 9:23). Paul himself said that he had been crucified with Christ, and that he no longer lived, but Christ lived in him (Gal. 2:20). This is the lot of the one who has received Christ Jesus the Lord (Col. 2:6). So then brethren, let us walk in Him. Let us be build up in Him. Let us be established in our faith. We do can do this by hiding God’s word in our heart (Ps. 119:9-11), by praying for one another, and by gathering together, encouraging one another, and stimulating one another to love and good deeds (Heb. 10:24-25). Only in this way may we pursue “the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). Only in this way can we put to death the flesh and the sin that dwells in our members (Rom. 7:23). We must walk in the spirit so that we may crucify the flesh and its desires (Gal. 5:16-24). So then, believer, just as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him (Col. 2:6). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, November 8 "As ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord." Colossians 2:6 The life of faith is represented as receiving- an act which implies the very opposite of anything like merit. It is simply the acceptance of a gift. As the earth drinks in the rain, as the sea receives the streams, as night accepts light from the stars, so we, giving nothing, partake freely of the grace of God. The saints are not, by nature, wells, or streams, they are but cisterns into which the living water flows; they are empty vessels into which God pours His salvation. The idea of receiving implies a sense of realization, making the matter a reality. One cannot very well receive a shadow; we receive that which is substantial: so is it in the life of faith, Christ becomes real to us. While we are without faith, Jesus is a mere name to us- a person who lived a long while ago, so long ago that His life is only a history to us now! By an act of faith Jesus becomes a real person in the consciousness of our heart. But receiving also means grasping or getting possession of. The thing which I receive becomes my own: I appropriate to myself that which is given. When I receive Jesus, He becomes my Saviour, so mine that neither life nor death shall be able to rob me of Him. All this is to receive Christ- to take Him as God's free gift; to realize Him in my heart, and to appropriate Him as mine. Salvation may be described as the blind receiving sight, the deaf receiving hearing, the dead receiving life; but we have not only received these blessings, we have received CHRIST JESUS Himself. It is true that He gave us life from the dead. He gave us pardon of sin; He gave us imputed righteousness. These are all precious things, but we are not content with them; we have received Christ Himself. The Son of God has been poured into us, and we have received Him, and appropriated Him. What a heartful Jesus must be, for heaven itself cannot contain Him!
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  • Christian, are you thankful? Truly thankful to God? This is part of our calling. We are to “give thanks to Him” and “bless His name” (Ps. 100:4).

    Our circumstances matter not. He has given us the breath of life, and more so, life eternal in Christ Jesus. How then can we not be thankful?

    When you are well, give thanks. When you have plenty, give thanks. When you are ill or imprisoned, give thanks. Hungry or in need? Give thanks! In the darkest of times, give thanks. Regardless our trials or tribulations, give thanks.

    I exaggerate not. Scripture exhorts, “in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thes. 5:18). This is not merely suggestion, it is God’s will. We are to be thankful always.

    If you are not giving thanks in all things, examine yourself. See what is within you that is preventing you showing your gratefulness to God. Then pray, with thanksgiving, letting God know what is on your heart, so that He might give you His peace which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:6-7).

    Remember always the words of the psalmist so that you will be ever thankful and bless His name:

    Bless the LORD, O my soul,
    And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
    Bless the LORD, O my soul,
    And forget none of His benefits;
    Who pardons all your iniquities,
    Who heals all your diseases;
    Who redeems your life from the pit,
    Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
    Who satisfies your years with good things,
    So that your youth is renewed like the eagle…
    He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
    Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
    For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
    So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him.
    As far as the east is from the west,
    So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
    Just as a father has compassion on his children,
    So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
    Psalm 103:1-5, 10-13

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, November 5

    "Be thankful unto Him, and bless His name." Psalm 100:4

    Our Lord would have all His people rich in high and happy thoughts concerning His blessed person. Jesus is not content that His brethren should think meanly of Him; it is His pleasure that His espoused ones should be delighted with His beauty. We are not to regard Him as a bare necessary, like to bread and water, but as a luxurious delicacy, as a rare and ravishing delight. To this end He has revealed Himself as the "pearl of great price" in its peerless beauty, as the "bundle of myrrh" in its refreshing fragrance, as the "rose of Sharon" in its lasting perfume, as the "lily" in its spotless purity.

    As a help to high thoughts of Christ, remember the estimation that Christ is had in beyond the skies, where things are measured by the right standard. Think how God esteems the Only Begotten, His unspeakable gift to us. Consider what the angels think of Him, as they count it their highest honour to veil their faces at His feet. Consider what the blood-washed think of Him, as day without night they sing His well deserved praises. High thoughts of Christ will enable us to act consistently with our relations towards Him. The more loftily we see Christ enthroned, and the more lowly we are when bowing before the foot of the throne, the more truly shall we be prepared to act our part towards Him. Our Lord Jesus desires us to think well of Him, that we may submit cheerfully to His authority. High thoughts of Him increase our love. Love and esteem go together. Therefore, believer, think much of your Master's excellencies. Study Him in His primeval glory, before He took upon Himself your nature! Think of the mighty love which drew Him from His throne to die upon the cross! Admire Him as He conquers all the powers of hell! See Him risen, crowned, glorified! Bow before Him as the Wonderful, the Counsellor, the mighty God, for only thus will your love to Him be what it should.
    Christian, are you thankful? Truly thankful to God? This is part of our calling. We are to “give thanks to Him” and “bless His name” (Ps. 100:4). Our circumstances matter not. He has given us the breath of life, and more so, life eternal in Christ Jesus. How then can we not be thankful? When you are well, give thanks. When you have plenty, give thanks. When you are ill or imprisoned, give thanks. Hungry or in need? Give thanks! In the darkest of times, give thanks. Regardless our trials or tribulations, give thanks. I exaggerate not. Scripture exhorts, “in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thes. 5:18). This is not merely suggestion, it is God’s will. We are to be thankful always. If you are not giving thanks in all things, examine yourself. See what is within you that is preventing you showing your gratefulness to God. Then pray, with thanksgiving, letting God know what is on your heart, so that He might give you His peace which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:6-7). Remember always the words of the psalmist so that you will be ever thankful and bless His name: Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle… He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. Psalm 103:1-5, 10-13 —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, November 5 "Be thankful unto Him, and bless His name." Psalm 100:4 Our Lord would have all His people rich in high and happy thoughts concerning His blessed person. Jesus is not content that His brethren should think meanly of Him; it is His pleasure that His espoused ones should be delighted with His beauty. We are not to regard Him as a bare necessary, like to bread and water, but as a luxurious delicacy, as a rare and ravishing delight. To this end He has revealed Himself as the "pearl of great price" in its peerless beauty, as the "bundle of myrrh" in its refreshing fragrance, as the "rose of Sharon" in its lasting perfume, as the "lily" in its spotless purity. As a help to high thoughts of Christ, remember the estimation that Christ is had in beyond the skies, where things are measured by the right standard. Think how God esteems the Only Begotten, His unspeakable gift to us. Consider what the angels think of Him, as they count it their highest honour to veil their faces at His feet. Consider what the blood-washed think of Him, as day without night they sing His well deserved praises. High thoughts of Christ will enable us to act consistently with our relations towards Him. The more loftily we see Christ enthroned, and the more lowly we are when bowing before the foot of the throne, the more truly shall we be prepared to act our part towards Him. Our Lord Jesus desires us to think well of Him, that we may submit cheerfully to His authority. High thoughts of Him increase our love. Love and esteem go together. Therefore, believer, think much of your Master's excellencies. Study Him in His primeval glory, before He took upon Himself your nature! Think of the mighty love which drew Him from His throne to die upon the cross! Admire Him as He conquers all the powers of hell! See Him risen, crowned, glorified! Bow before Him as the Wonderful, the Counsellor, the mighty God, for only thus will your love to Him be what it should.
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  • 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

    19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

    20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

    21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

    22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

    23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

    24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

    25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

    26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

    27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

    28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

    29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

    30Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

    31Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

    32Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
    18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
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  • Believers, may we never forget that the heinousness of our sin lies not so much in the nature of the sin we committed, but more so in the greatness of the One Whom we have sinned against.
    #SaturdaySentiments
    Believers, may we never forget that the heinousness of our sin lies not so much in the nature of the sin we committed, but more so in the greatness of the One Whom we have sinned against. #SaturdaySentiments
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  • #FoodFreedom
    Rehydrate with #coconut #water: Nature’s low-calorie alternative to #sports drinks https://naturalblaze.com/2025/10/rehydrate-with-coconut-water-natures-low-calorie-alternative-to-sports-drinks.html
    #FoodFreedom Rehydrate with #coconut #water: Nature’s low-calorie alternative to #sports drinks https://naturalblaze.com/2025/10/rehydrate-with-coconut-water-natures-low-calorie-alternative-to-sports-drinks.html
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  • Beloved brethren, before we were called, we were “all as an unclean thing” (Isa.64.6). Isaiah uses an even more graphic description even for our “righteous” deeds, which are not righteous at all before we are created anew.

    But thanks be to God, we have received the new birth! Having been born first of flesh, we have now been born of the Spirit (Jn. 3:6), and we are now new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17).

    How beautiful the gift we’ve been given that, though we were, by nature, children of wrath, walking according to the ways of this world, indulging our flesh (Eph. 2:1-3), God in His mercy and His love for us saved us, while we were yet dead in sin, made us alive together with Christ (Eph. 2:4-5).

    While we yet wrestle with temptation, we now have the power instead to obey God, to live not as slaves to sin, but as servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:17-18).

    Let us be humbled by this grace shown us, and let us rejoice in Christ who sets us free from the body of this death! (Rom. 7:24).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, October 27

    "We are all as an unclean thing." Isaiah 64:6

    The believer is a new creature, he belongs to a holy generation and a peculiar people- the Spirit of God is in him, and in all respects he is far removed from the natural man; but for all that the Christian is a sinner still. He is so from the imperfection of his nature, and will continue so to the end of his earthly life. The black fingers of sin leave smuts upon our fairest robes. Sin mars our repentance, ere the great Potter has finished it, upon the wheel. Selfishness defiles our tears, and unbelief tampers with our faith. The best thing we ever did apart from the merit of Jesus only swelled the number of our sins; for when we have been most pure in our own sight, yet, like the heavens, we are not pure in God's sight; and as He charged His angels with folly, much more must He charge us with it, even in our most angelic frames of mind. The song which thrills to heaven, and seeks to emulate seraphic strains, hath human discords in it. The prayer which moves the arm of God is still a bruised and battered prayer, and only moves that arm because the sinless One, the great Mediator, has stepped in to take away the sin of our supplication. The most golden faith or the purest degree of sanctification to which a Christian ever attained on earth, has still so much alloy in it as to be only worthy of the flames, in itself considered. Every night we look in the glass we see a sinner, and had need confess, "We are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags." Oh, how precious the blood of Christ to such hearts as ours! How priceless a gift is His perfect righteousness! And how bright the hope of perfect holiness hereafter! Even now, though sin dwells in us, its power is broken. It has no dominion; it is a broken-backed snake; we are in bitter conflict with it, but it is with a vanquished foe that we have to deal. Yet a little while and we shall enter victoriously into the city where nothing defileth.
    Beloved brethren, before we were called, we were “all as an unclean thing” (Isa.64.6). Isaiah uses an even more graphic description even for our “righteous” deeds, which are not righteous at all before we are created anew. But thanks be to God, we have received the new birth! Having been born first of flesh, we have now been born of the Spirit (Jn. 3:6), and we are now new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17). How beautiful the gift we’ve been given that, though we were, by nature, children of wrath, walking according to the ways of this world, indulging our flesh (Eph. 2:1-3), God in His mercy and His love for us saved us, while we were yet dead in sin, made us alive together with Christ (Eph. 2:4-5). While we yet wrestle with temptation, we now have the power instead to obey God, to live not as slaves to sin, but as servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:17-18). Let us be humbled by this grace shown us, and let us rejoice in Christ who sets us free from the body of this death! (Rom. 7:24). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, October 27 "We are all as an unclean thing." Isaiah 64:6 The believer is a new creature, he belongs to a holy generation and a peculiar people- the Spirit of God is in him, and in all respects he is far removed from the natural man; but for all that the Christian is a sinner still. He is so from the imperfection of his nature, and will continue so to the end of his earthly life. The black fingers of sin leave smuts upon our fairest robes. Sin mars our repentance, ere the great Potter has finished it, upon the wheel. Selfishness defiles our tears, and unbelief tampers with our faith. The best thing we ever did apart from the merit of Jesus only swelled the number of our sins; for when we have been most pure in our own sight, yet, like the heavens, we are not pure in God's sight; and as He charged His angels with folly, much more must He charge us with it, even in our most angelic frames of mind. The song which thrills to heaven, and seeks to emulate seraphic strains, hath human discords in it. The prayer which moves the arm of God is still a bruised and battered prayer, and only moves that arm because the sinless One, the great Mediator, has stepped in to take away the sin of our supplication. The most golden faith or the purest degree of sanctification to which a Christian ever attained on earth, has still so much alloy in it as to be only worthy of the flames, in itself considered. Every night we look in the glass we see a sinner, and had need confess, "We are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags." Oh, how precious the blood of Christ to such hearts as ours! How priceless a gift is His perfect righteousness! And how bright the hope of perfect holiness hereafter! Even now, though sin dwells in us, its power is broken. It has no dominion; it is a broken-backed snake; we are in bitter conflict with it, but it is with a vanquished foe that we have to deal. Yet a little while and we shall enter victoriously into the city where nothing defileth.
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  • The nature of Christ's salvation is woefully misrepresented by the present-day evangelist. He announces a Saviour from Hell rather than a Saviour from sin. And that is why so many are fatally deceived, for there are multitudes who wish to escape the Lake of fire who have no desire to be delivered from their carnality and worldliness.
    ~AW Pink
    #TuesdayTidbit
    The nature of Christ's salvation is woefully misrepresented by the present-day evangelist. He announces a Saviour from Hell rather than a Saviour from sin. And that is why so many are fatally deceived, for there are multitudes who wish to escape the Lake of fire who have no desire to be delivered from their carnality and worldliness. ~AW Pink #TuesdayTidbit
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  • #OperationMockingbird and the Nature of Participatory Propaganda - #CIA #TulsiGabbard - https://defenseofournation.com/uncategorized/operation-mockingbird-and-the-nature-of-participatory-propaganda/
    #OperationMockingbird and the Nature of Participatory Propaganda - #CIA #TulsiGabbard - https://defenseofournation.com/uncategorized/operation-mockingbird-and-the-nature-of-participatory-propaganda/
    DEFENSEOFOURNATION.COM
    Operation Mockingbird and the Nature of Participatory Propaganda
    Tulsi Gabbard recently made an interesting statement that surely resonates with the conservative audience. She said that Operation Mockingbird was alive and well, and still being used to undermine President Trump, and all of the wonderful things he is accomplishing. Operation Mockingbird is believed to be a propaganda operation involving the CIA's infiltration of the mainstream media, and their attempts to shape and manipulate public perceptions. Started in the 1940s by a man named Frank Wisner, an undercover foreign service operator for the State Department, Operation Mockingbird was a psychological warfare operation originally aimed at using propaganda to influence foreign governments through media outlets. Wisner, however, had controlling interests in American media as well. He later recruited Philip Graham, owner of The Washington Post, and graduate of the Army intelligence school, to oversee Operation Mockingbird. The effects of media broadcasts on the American psyche have been studied for many years. A massive study took place following The War of The Worlds radio broadcast which sought to determine why so many people believed it to be a real event. The study was conducted by Hadley Cantrill, who was then head of the Office of Strategic Services, which of course, was the forerunner to the CIA. Cantrill was also involved in something called the Princeton Radio Project, which was also meant to study the effects of American propaganda being used overseas. These studies were largely funded by the Rockefeller foundation. One of the major findings of The War of The Worlds study was that people had a natural tendency to trust media figures. The study provided so much insight into people's behavior during times of panic that Cantrill said it may very well be the prototype for future studies. This occurred at a time when propaganda and persuasion were being studied as a new way to influence public opinion. Tulsi Gabbard isn't lying when she says Operation Mockingbird is alive and well. She is targeting the audience with a message that resonates with their emotions, attitudes and beliefs--the mainstream media is against President Trump. This message, however, is being used as a deceptive tactic to keep drawing people away from an issue they once cared deeply about. With each passing day the Epstein issue drifts further away from public consciousness, as the conservative media is working frantically to disassociate Trump, in any way they can, from the Epstein mess. In other words, while there is truth in Gabbard's comment, it is--in its own way--propaganda that reflects the beliefs of the targeted audience. The American people are living in a delusion. They are mesmerized by a misguided belief that the media exists to keep them informed of daily events that have an impact on our life. This is simply not true. According to the book Media effects: Advances in Theory and Research, the media exists largely to overcome the psychological barriers to social change. This applies to conservative media as well. There is a high level of cognitive dissonance among conservatives who believe that Fox News is presenting them with the truth when Rupert Murdoch is known to have contributed millions to the Clinton's, and other prominent Democrats. Some people may not see that as being problematic; however, it doesn't align with the perception that Fox News tries to maintain. The bigger truth here is that the conservative and liberal media outlets exist to keep the illusion of conflict between the left and right alive. American's who are engaged and committed to this perception of all out cultural war are unknowingly taking part in something called participatory propaganda. The active participation in the conflict itself helps solidify a perception of reality through the control and propagation of information related to this deliberately created social strife. By engaging in the conflict at all, the public is allowing the propagandist to manipulate the attitudes and beliefs of those engaged while using social media as a means of thrusting these beliefs into the public sphere, which are then shared by those who hold similar views. This is referred to as the socialization of conflict. We are living in a time when our perceptions of reality, and our beliefs, are formed through our social media experiences. Every day we see memes depicting Donald Trump infuriating the left, at times to the point where the snowflake breaks down in tears. Or we read stories where the framing detracts from anything negative and only reflects the commonly held belief that only Trump can save us. More recently we have seen an attempt to move people away from Epstein with influencers hinting at the idea that all of Trump's other accomplishments outweigh the Epstein issue, and we need to keep supporting him despite the fact that he lied. The more these types of social media influences are shared or liked by viewers, the more they become cemented in the minds of the targeted audience. Have you ever asked yourself who created the memes you are sharing? The use of social media for propagating information has come to be known as a do-it-yourself misinformation campaign, as the state can rely on the citizenry to spread the lies being fed to them. In other words, there is a reason the government thinks you're stupid. How does all of this work? Propaganda is deceptive form of mass persuasion that attempts to influence the audience to accept the propagandist's point of view. It has been found when a message can be framed in a way that best aligns with the audience's pre-existing beliefs and attitudes, it is easier to gain compliance. For instance, the article, Psychological Targeting as an Effective Approach to Digital Mass Persuasion states that mass persuasion is more effective when tailored toward an individual or a group’s psychological traits, beliefs, and behaviors. This is something that is repeated often within the literature on the subject. When a message aligns with pre-existing beliefs, it becomes easier to manipulate that message, and guide people in a certain direction. We see this happening every day. The dominant belief among Trump voters is that he is draining the swamp and playing a game of four-dimensional chess. Another popular belief is that Trump is despised by the left, and the more they feed that perception, and frame the narrative from that point of view, the stronger the support becomes. Another example of this idea comes from the book Media, Propaganda, and Persuasion. The authors state that publicists must understand what the public thinks and feels in order to create an effective, resonating message. This alludes to the idea that before developing a persuasive message, the messenger must first study the beliefs and behaviors of the audience to effectively craft an appeal that has the potential to guide audiences in desired directions. Tulsi Gabbard, and the Trump administration for that matter, know that the conservative audience does not trust the liberal media. When stories are framed in a way that aligns with this belief, there is what researchers call--an anchor of resonance. This is a manipulation tactic that attaches itself to the beliefs of the audience so they can be guided in different directions. To give one more example, the book Persuasion and Propaganda, cites a paper called Persuasion and Democracy: Strategies for Increasing Deliberative Participation and Enacting Social Change. Propaganda attempts to move a recipient to a predetermined point of view, the authors state, by using simple images and slogans that truncates thought by playing on prejudices and emotions (p. 190.) This is something we also see every day, on both the left and right. Slogans like MAGA, Hope and Change, and drain the swamp, are simple messages meant to captivate the group consciousness and subvert logical thinking. They attach themselves to the emotional makeup of the targeted audience, acting as a resonating anchor, while being used to reinforce the intent of the message. The average person will not stop to ask themselves what the real differences between those two messages are. For example, what type of change were people hoping for? To restore America to their own perceptions of greatness. In essence, they were also wanting to make America great again, only from their point of view. MAGA and Hope and Change were the same message made to resonate with different audiences and their pre-existing attitudes. Tulsi Gabbard is absolutely telling the truth. Operation Mockingbird is alive and well and can be traced back to early twentieth century when propaganda and persuasion were falling under the same academic umbrella of study. It was more than simply lying to the American public but lying with the intent of understanding how the public reacts. Once the general attitudes and beliefs of the audience are understood, messages can be better framed to induce compliance. The conservative audience is enthralled with the idea that Trump is some kind of superhero who has the power to infuriate and befuddle the left, expose the deep state, and outsmart world leaders on a scale never seen before. If you are ever unsure about this, all you have to do is listen to Trump talk about himself and he will tell you how great he is. Gabbard's comments not only reflect the beliefs of the audience, but they also reinforce these beliefs as people are desperately trying to justify their continued adoration with a man who just days ago, told them he no longer wanted their support if they believed the Epstein hoax. Voter attitudes are studied, and messages are created to resonate with those attitudes in an effort to get the voters to turn their brains off and just follow along. For example, one way they do this is through a data mining company called Cambridge Analytica. For as hard as they try to portray Trump and Obama as being complete opposites, the one thing they have in common is they both employed this company to collect data on your attitudes, beliefs and behaviors so they could better propagandize you. For more information on propaganda and the psychology of persuasion visit www.defenseofournation.com or you can check out my books. And Without a Shot Indeed: Inducing Compliance to Tyranny Through Conditioning and Persuasion. A Critical Look at CRT in Education, Research and Social Policy, now available in paperback.
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  • Brethren, what do you treasure? What earthly possessions have you that will follow you into eternal life? John tells us to not “love the world nor the things in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15). Jesus tells us not to store up treasures here on earth that will perish, but eternal treasure that will last (Mt. 6:19-20).

    Is your heart here in this world? Or is it in heaven, our true home?

    Our hope is not in riches, but in Christ. Our home is not in this world, but in God’s kingdom. We await that which is better while we are clothed in this corruptible form.

    Therefore, what value are the things here that are fading for those who have eternal hope? Paul declared, “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” (Phil. 3:8).

    Do not be burdened nor distracted by earthly things. Do not allow your fruit to be choked out by the worries of this world. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Mt. 6:33). As Paul exhorted, “if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:1-2).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, October 14

    "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." Philippians 3:8

    Spiritual knowledge of Christ will be a personal knowledge. I cannot know Jesus through another person's acquaintance with Him. No, I must know Him myself"; I must know Him on my own account. It will be an intelligent knowledge- I must know Him, not as the visionary dreams of Him, but as the Word reveals Him. I must know His natures, divine and human. I must know His offices- His attributes- His works- His shame- His glory. I must meditate upon Him until I "comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge." It will be an affectionate knowledge of Him; indeed, if I know Him at all, I must love Him. An ounce of heart knowledge is worth a ton of head learning. Our knowledge of Him will be a satisfying knowledge. When I know my Saviour, my mind will be full to the brim- I shall feel that I have that which my spirit panted after. "This is that bread whereof if a man eat he shall never hunger." At the same time it will be an exciting knowledge; the more I know of my Beloved, the more I shall want to know. The higher I climb the loftier will be the summits which invite my eager footsteps. I shall want the more as I get the more. Like the miser's treasure, my gold will make me covet more. To conclude; this knowledge of Christ Jesus will be a most happy one; in fact, so elevating, that sometimes it will completely bear me up above all trials, and doubts, and sorrows; and it will, while I enjoy it, make me something more than "Man that is born of woman, who is of few days, and full of trouble"; for it will fling about me the immortality of the everliving Saviour, and gird me with the golden girdle of His eternal joy. Come, my soul, sit at Jesus's feet and learn of Him all this day.
    Brethren, what do you treasure? What earthly possessions have you that will follow you into eternal life? John tells us to not “love the world nor the things in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15). Jesus tells us not to store up treasures here on earth that will perish, but eternal treasure that will last (Mt. 6:19-20). Is your heart here in this world? Or is it in heaven, our true home? Our hope is not in riches, but in Christ. Our home is not in this world, but in God’s kingdom. We await that which is better while we are clothed in this corruptible form. Therefore, what value are the things here that are fading for those who have eternal hope? Paul declared, “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” (Phil. 3:8). Do not be burdened nor distracted by earthly things. Do not allow your fruit to be choked out by the worries of this world. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Mt. 6:33). As Paul exhorted, “if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:1-2). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, October 14 "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." Philippians 3:8 Spiritual knowledge of Christ will be a personal knowledge. I cannot know Jesus through another person's acquaintance with Him. No, I must know Him myself"; I must know Him on my own account. It will be an intelligent knowledge- I must know Him, not as the visionary dreams of Him, but as the Word reveals Him. I must know His natures, divine and human. I must know His offices- His attributes- His works- His shame- His glory. I must meditate upon Him until I "comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge." It will be an affectionate knowledge of Him; indeed, if I know Him at all, I must love Him. An ounce of heart knowledge is worth a ton of head learning. Our knowledge of Him will be a satisfying knowledge. When I know my Saviour, my mind will be full to the brim- I shall feel that I have that which my spirit panted after. "This is that bread whereof if a man eat he shall never hunger." At the same time it will be an exciting knowledge; the more I know of my Beloved, the more I shall want to know. The higher I climb the loftier will be the summits which invite my eager footsteps. I shall want the more as I get the more. Like the miser's treasure, my gold will make me covet more. To conclude; this knowledge of Christ Jesus will be a most happy one; in fact, so elevating, that sometimes it will completely bear me up above all trials, and doubts, and sorrows; and it will, while I enjoy it, make me something more than "Man that is born of woman, who is of few days, and full of trouble"; for it will fling about me the immortality of the everliving Saviour, and gird me with the golden girdle of His eternal joy. Come, my soul, sit at Jesus's feet and learn of Him all this day.
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