Slanderous Words (TT)

You know, when you go through the exercise of more intentionally learning to tame your tongue, I'm finding one needs to learn to tame ones heart and mind before one governs the tongue.  How is it with you?

Lately the Lord has immersed me into a situation that allows for plenty tongue-taming opportunities.  The old nature is surely raked up but thankfully Holy Spirit's got a grip and cautioning me to watch my words.

Yet it goes deeper than that - I say this with chagrin.  It's what's in the heart and mind that the rubber is hitting the road!  This 'ole gray mare' really needs the bit and bridle to rein in her words.  

No 'neigh' - saying allowed.  In this case, regarding the slandering tongue.  The irritant in my oyster is alive and active and I so want to tell you all about this irritant in no uncertain words!

A friend prayed for me though.  You know the gist of her words were that I'd go a mile in that irritant's shoes.  From what I know of the situation, this person hadn't had a very happy life.  He's had major disappointments, likely consequences of his own making.  However, my friend said,

 "He needs the Savior to make him a new creature in Christ.  You may be the light of Christ to this elderly person.  Pray for his salvation." 

 Ironically, I hope telling this much to all the world is not slander but more a shedding light as an example of how we can use the opportunities the Lord presents to us, to 'fine-tune' our own foibles that are sinful in God's sight.  Ahem, by 'fine-tune' I mean to work on eradicating them in our own life first.

Slander does not have another person's best interests at heart.  It is often used to make ones own self 'look good'.  We all know the amount of disgustingly, blatant back-stabbing, slander that goes on  especially as seen during American political campaigns for the presidency.  

Grown men verbally abusing each other creating scenes you'd rather not witness or hear about.  If that displeases you, just think how much it displeases the Lord when His followers do it, even if in more subtle ways.

May we, like the psalmist, make the commitment ...

"who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman" (Psalm 15:1-3).

Deborah Smith Pegues reminds us of Proverbs 10:18 (NLT) in her book 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue, that, 

"To hide hatred is to be a liar; to slander is to be a fool."

Pegues further elaborated,

"Slandering is an illegal, diabolical act that God abhors.  When we attempt to defame others, with our denigrating words, we are sowing evil seeds for which we will surely reap the consequences" (p. 45).

Let's ponder her point.

Father God, help us guard our hearts, minds and tongues so we do not slander others.  Sometimes it pours forth from our mouths, like a well-oiled 'spitfire' machine.  Rein in those tongues.  May Holy Spirit convict us loudly and clearly so that, instead, we will speak only words that build each other up, in kindness and good care.  I ask in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                             ~ERC  May 2025  ~

Based on Proverbs 10:18 NLT/ESV and 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing:  What Your Are, Speaks so Loud, along with Selah Praise Music.

See also:  Morning Musings - Slanderous Slander.

About Self Deprecation (TT)

 

There's a definition of the word 'self-deprecation' explained by AI Overview that I found to be so succinct.  It explained that self-deprecation,

"involves a constant stream of negativity towards oneself, potentially hindering personal growth and confidence."

It often manifests when people deflect praise, have low self-esteem, and/or underestimate their own self worth.  A pattern of self-criticism emerges.

Perhaps an individual's upbringing of constantly being verbally harrassed and put down exacerbated the self-deprecation.  Or, for example, take Joni Eareckson Tada.  Instead of referring to her as "the diving accident victim who is paralyzed and lives in a wheelchair," refer to her as the "one who despite all her pain is doing so much good for the world" with her Joni and Friends organization helping those who do need help!  One could refer to her instead as the Wheels for the World Lady.   In this, Joni not only gives hope and mobility to thousands world-wide but gives in-mates some redemptive purpose in their own lives as they repair second hand wheelchairs to like-new conditions.  This is amazing life work!

Sometimes a person who limps gets referrred to as "that limping fellow" or the girl who was raped as "the rape victim".  Soon the person begins to see themself as that and will even label themself as such.  This becomes self-deprecation.

In Deborah Smith Pegues' book 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue, she reminds the reader that God is displeased with self-deprecation.  She uses Moses as an example.  During Moses' burning bush experience, God gave him a commission to go back to Egypt and lead the children of Israel out of their bondage.  Moses replied to this with,

"Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent, either in the past or since You have spoken to Your servant, but I am slow of speech and of tongue" (Exodus 4:10-12 ESV).

It could have been true that Moses had a speech impediment.  It could have been embarassing.  It really could have been difficult to speak.  But this was God asking him to go do this good work!  Nevertheless, Moses still saw himself as his limitation.  On the other hand, God saw what Moses could do despite it.  God became greatly displeased with this show of self-deprecation.  Yet, God, being God, showed compassion and told Moses that Aaron was on his way to greet him and would be Moses' mouthpiece.  They would work together.

No doubt Joni has friends to help her but she is the driving force.  Recently, a friend told me she'd like to become more active in doing kingdom work.  When she consulted a care group leader, he asked, 

"Well, what about your depression episodes?  Wouldn't that affect your effectiveness?"

This knocked her back a pace or two. Instead of focusing on her willingness to become more active in the Lord's work, he'd focused on her limitations.  We need to be very careful we do not do this to ourself nor to other people.  Don't see them as their limitation because you may well cause them to sink into a miry pit of seeing themself as that too!

No doubt limitations need to be factored in but let's help each other see what we CAN do.  God will be more well pleased!

God told Moses,

"Now go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak" (Exodus 4:12).

WOW!  Imagine that!

Moses would become over-the-top eloquent!

God can help a willing person to overcome their limitations and do wonders.  Thousands could well be helped!  Joni hasn't gotten out of her wheelchair since she was a teenager as far as I know.  She is now a vibrant, grown woman, 75 years of age.  Again, according to AI Overview, she has

"helped send 227,000 wheelchairs to low-resource countries and other regions around the world"

How's that for someone with so-called limitations!

If you have made a habit out of self-deprecating speech, stop yourself.  Ask the Lord why you do it.  If you are a brother or sister-in-Christ, you have the Holy Spirit to help you overcome and form a new and healthy habit.  Remind yourself you are made in the image of God and you are precious in His sight because you are His child who atoned for your soul at the cost of His one and only son, Jesus Christ, Who shed His life blood for us.  You are a precious jewel in His sight whether you are male or female and whether or not you have a limitation such as Moses' or Joni's.  Let this sink into your mind and heart.

It may also help if you see the difference between self-deprecation and humility.  Humility will recognize ones own limitation, acknowledge areas that need growth and improvement but still see what can be done.  There's a saying that is attributed to C. S. Lewis in his book Mere Christianity which says,

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less".

This would lend to greater confidence in how one orchestrates their life.  If someone praises you,  you don't have to deflect.  It also doesn't mean you are proud if you say, "Thank you."

By God's grace and strength we can do all things through Him (see Philippians 4:13).  Let the meekness of Christ shine in our hearts and beam out in our demeanor.

Loving and Heavenly Father, in Your time You make all things beautiful.  Thank You for Your grace and love bestowed upon us.  It's okay for us to  see ourselves as You see us - precious jewels that reflect Your love, grace, strength and the abilities and capabilities You give us, energizing us even one day at a time so we can go forth and be influencers for Your kingdom.  Thanking You so much, in Jesus' name.

                                                       ~  ERC  May 2025 ~

Based on Exodus 4:10 and loosely on 30 Days to Taming Your Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, One Day At a Time, along with Meriam Bellina.

Humpty Dumpty's Boastful Fall (TT)

 According to wikipedia, the earlierst known version of that childhood chant about Humpty Dumpty was,

"Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,

Humpty Dumpty had a great fall,

Four-score Men and 

Four-score more;

Could not make Humpty

Dumpty where he was

before."

by Samuel Arnold in Juvenile Amusements in 1707.

By the time 1843 had rolled around, it had morphed through various versions to the more well-known one where the ending lines are now,

" ...All the king's horses

and all the king's men

Couldn't put Humpty-

Humpty together again."

Apparently back in the 17th century, Humpty Dumpty was a popular alcoholic drink!  Naturally when overly imbibed it would make the drinker stagger and fall.

I prefer the picture of a large egg sitting on a wall though.  In my imagination Humpty Dumpty is proud of himself and showing off.  He was boasting of his position, wealth and achievement, and even to be able to sit up there on the wall at all!   He thought he had done all by his own successful strength and ability.   He's literallly and figuratively looking down on people passing by.

He really forgot that,

"Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall."

And that

"It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud" (Proverbs 16:18 & 19 ESV).

He did not give thanks to the Lord for all he could do and had done and how the Lord had helped him.   

It's a good lesson for us to be wise of heart and to be more humble, meek and mild like Jesus was as He walked upon the earth even though He is the High King of Heaven.  We need to beware of the boasting tongue.

The apostle Paul boasted but in a sarcastic way because the Corinthians must have been boasting.  Paul actually did have a great pedigree and bio data and also persevered through much hardship.  However, after his list of boasting he remarked,

"If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness ..."                                (2 Corinthians 11:30).

Who does that sort of thing? 

And in 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 he wrote,

"Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."

It was only because the Lord had commended Paul, that he was approved for all his years of ministry, preaching and teaching the gospel and God's Word for edification and building others up to maturity in Christ.

Therefore, as another verse in Proverbs says,

"Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips" (Proverbs 27;2).

In a recent Bible study session about giving offerings to the Lord we were reminded that all we have has been given by the Lord in the first place.  All our possessions, wealth, health, talents, skills and abilities, have been given by Him.

Therefore, in thanksgiving and gratitude, we give back to Him according to our capability and willingness of heart.

We do not, or should not, boast of these things.  When others praise us for our accomplishments we should beware not to be puffed up with pride because we too could have a great fall from whence we may not be able to be put back together again.

But for the grace of God, we would not be able to use our 'all' for Him.  Let's give Him the glory and boast about Him.

So be it, Lord.  

Your humble servants say amen.

                                               ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 16:18 & 19 ESV.  Loosely based on 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Chapter 7 The Boasting Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, All My Boast is in Jesus, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Avoiding the Fight (TT)

 "Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling" Proverbs 20:3 NLT.

God's word is saying it's an honor to avoid a fight.  On the other hand quarreling is what fools engage in.  This message is straightforward.

It may be straightforward and excellent advice but I laughed in Solomon's face.  Not because I think he's silly but because from what I have observed in general, when it comes to fights, quarrels, feuds and duels, and such, mankind seems to think quite the opposite.

They will rush into a duel to preserve their honor or defend the honor of a woman, for instance.  Often it becomes their death sentence.  What honor is there in that?!

But here, let's keep it to verbal arguments.  Some people love to play "devil's advocate."  One brother once forthrightly told a group of us at a Bible study, that he loves to do that in order to make us think.  That explained his irritating habit, which actually comes across as quarrelsome.

However almost 99% of the time, the main message of the lesson hasn't yet been established.  It often swerves the direction way, away.  One leaves the session wondering, what was the point of all that!

Now it is good to see another side of a coin at times but in this instance, most of the devil's advocate's questions posed have been those a pre- or new believer may ask.  That would be fine if he were.  But when all in the group have been in the family of God for decades, these question should have been figured out ages ago.  One doesn't even feel like bothering to address the question.  According to the Proverbs verse, it is an "honor" to not answer the fool according to his folly (see Proverbs 26:4-5).

Other people purposely, when someone says, 'A,' will say, 'B'.  They pride themselves on it.  In families, at work or school or at church, argumentativeness creates divisiveness which leads to much unpleasantness and hurt.

So how can one overcome argumentative situations when unreasonably confronted with them?

I never really understood the Bible verse but in this context, I get it;

"agree with your adversary quickly" (Matthew 5:25 NKJV).

In her book 30 Days to Taming Your Tongue, Deborah Smith Pegues, couples this verse with the Proverbs 20:3 one.

Agreeing but in a way that does not compromise your own belief, she suggests an excellent phrase as as argument stopper,

 "Okay.  That's your opinion."  

This to be said with as much conviction and in an 'end-putting'-as-possible-tone.

Seems there is a bit of an art to learning to disagree without being disagreeable.  If we examine ourselves and finding in the 'mirror' that we may be one of those contentious or argumentative people, remember the Holy Spirit indwells us enabling and empowering us to develop fruit such as, love, peace, kindness, gentleness and self-control among others.  Pegues adds, 

"God's children ... glorify God when we remain loving even when we disagree with the views and values of unbelievers ..." (p.34).

I'll add, even of believers.

Lord, help us rein in our thoughts and tongues.  May we respect others and not be contentious, even as we have the right to our own values and views.

You've given us creative minds and varying personalities but you've also given us Your Holy Spirit who convicts, leads and guides us into Your truth and into being conformed and transformed to being like You, Jesus.  May we have that discerning heart and wisdom to understand Your views and values and act upon them with Your mercy and grace.

And then speak peaceably without compromising our own testimony.  Help us to act in the honorable way by avoiding the fight.  May we reflect You in all we do and say.

In Your name Lord Jesus, we ask.

                                                ~  ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 20:3 NLT and 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, What You Are, Speaks So Loud, along with Selah Praise Music.

NOTE:  Even though I used Solomon's name regarding Prov 20:3, this proverb may not have been written by him, therefore, I use his name as a generalization.

Lord's Day Devotion - He Offered His Life

 

As we gather together on any given Lord's Day, we followers of Jesus Christ remember what Jesus has done for us.  Like this verse announces,

"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people ..."                   (Titus 2:11 ESV).

Jesus gave Himself to redeem us (see Titus 2:14).  This was the ultimate sacrifice He made for us.  He gave His life as an offering, a sweet aroma to God His Father, demonstrating His love for us.

What are we to do to show our gratitude to Him?  If we read verses 11 and 14 in context, we see the 'what to do' inbetween.  Salvation, God's Word proclaims, trains us,

"... to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age" (vs 12).

This is the 'what to do' and it's our responsibility to live holy lives before Christ.  This is Chrisitan living, progressing in progressive sanctification, shedding the habits and attitudes of the old nature.  Being "new creatures in Christ" (see 2 Corinthians 5:16-17) we need to learn to form God-honoring behavior and habits.  Self-control is one, which with Holy Spirit's help we can learn to develop as we renounce the sinful behaviors.

Secondly, while awaiting,

"for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (vs 13),

we can hold on to and use this future event as another motivation for living those holy lives God wants us to live.

"Be holy as He is holy" (1 Peter 1:15-16).

Salvation through Jesus Christ has great potential to purify us, collectively,

"a people for His own possession" (vs 14).

The reason being, is for us, His children and people, to be made

"zealous for good works" (vs 14).

As individuals and as a collective family of God we should choose to live well with the salvation Jesus earned for us at the cost of His precious blood and life.  He is a risen, living King now, we need to live for Him.

If we call ourselves 'redeemed people' then let's live to please Him, starting  with renouncing the ungodliness and worldly passion, by eagerly awaiting His appearing; and by being progressively purified for His glory and honor and doing good works as He directs.  Make it like an obsession, cuz that's similarly, what zealousness looks like.

May we be reminded of all this as we partake of the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine, as we remember Jesus' death and resurrection in this weekly memorial service - as often as you eat and drink in so doing.

A good question to ask ourselves:  He offered His life for me, will I offer mine to Him?

Lord Jesus, we remember all the work You did in securing our redemption.  Help us now to make our lives a continual living sacrifice, giving glory to Your name alone.  We give You our thanks in Your name.  Amen.

                                                ~ ERC  May 2025  ~

Based on Titus 2:11-14 ESV.

Siing, I Offer My Life, along with Don Moen.

Book Review - The Last Conclave - By Glenn Cooper - Publication Date: 19 May 2025

 Reading this Vatican chronicle held great interest for me and it certainly spiked my adrenaline.  Glenn Cooper, the author, knows how to tell a tale!  How could a conclave of over 100 Cardinals, sealed tightly into the Sistine Chapel, simply vanish! What a mystery!  Oh, and, what does a religious affliation of centuries past, considered 'extinct', have to do with it all?!

As this is a work of historical fiction, I really appreciated learning about the Cathars, what they believed and what happened to them because those beliefs starkly conflicted with the more dominant, at the time, Roman Catholic church.

I enjoyed 'meeting' Elisabetta, Emilio, Cal Dononvan and even Geralda.  They were surely 'put to the test'.  I liked their strength and bravery under duress.  In my opinion, those potential readers who find themselves in exceedingly stressful situations may well be able to relate to these particular protagonists best.

                                       ~  Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                          May 2025

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Eager For Peace Keeping (TT)

 It's most good and pleasant when we are 

"eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3).  

But when our unbridled tongues begin to wag divisively, ugly scenes emerge.  People get splattered and splashed by the spray like a car driving by on a rainy day plastering a pedestrian with dirty puddle water.

You get the picture.  There are people who are so argumentative, petty and love to pick fights.  Most want you to "choose sides".  If you don't want to then that creates a thorn in their flesh and that person furthers the knife twisting, so to speak, attempting to coerce you to their way of thinking.

Naturally there will always be differences of opinion but how we navigate those, whether at home, work, school, or church, shows a level of maturity, or not.  Make these times opportunities to put our eagerness into extra effect.  That eagerness for peacemaking and maintaining the unity of the Spirit are always at our doorsteps. 

Let's guard our words more assiduously, speaking words that make for peace and refraining from those that stir up dissension (see Proverbs 6:16, and 19).

Maybe we need to memorzie Ephesians 4:3, repeating it almost like a mantra, especially if we find we are one that has tendancies to perpetuate disharmony and disunity.  As a follower of Jesus Christ, I must do what it takes to be part of those

 "eager to maintain unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Let's communicate the fragrance of Christ to one and all.

Father God, as You know, we human beings can be so quarrelsome.  It only takes a spark to get a wildfire going.  But we are very thankful that we followers of Jesus Christ have Your Holy Spirit indwelling, giving us the great potential for self-control in the areas of controlling our tongues.  Make each of us more conscious of our thoughts that propel our tongues.  Stop us from speaking divisively.  We definitely need this help.  I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                              ~  ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Ephesians 4:3 (ESV) and 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Wonderful Words of Life, along with Joslin Grove Choir and Come, Jesus Come along with CeCe Winans.

Memorize: Ephesians 4:3.

Leave or Stay?

 

"And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him  to leave their region" (Matthew 8:34 ESV).

It looks pretty good - "the whole city came out to meet Jesus."  How ironic that the general consensus was that they did not want Him around.  They came to expel Him from their region.  They begged Him to leave!

Those statements made me want to cry.  Jesus promised us He'd be with us always and wherever we are.  He said He'd never leave us nor forsake us.  He said we're His friends (see Matthew 28:20; Joshua 1:9; Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5 and John 15:15).

Has He done something so extra ordinary in your life that stunned you to the core and you can no longer stand to be around Him and You want Him to leave? 

Jesus had commanded the exceedingly wild, demon-possessed man's demons to leave him.  They went.  They went into the swine that promptly ran down a steep hill into the sea and drowned (see Matthew 8:28 and 8:34 ESV).

The man was sitting clothed and in his right mind, listening to what Jesus had to say.  Totally phenomenal!  OR, what is it in our lives that we don't want Jesus to know so that we hide like Adam and Eve once tried?  We want Him to leave.  Sad?  I feel so.

Hopefully in our personal life, our family life and in our church life, we do not, as a "whole city," beg Jesus to leave.

May He ever be our guide, staying close to our side!  Actually, He stays put.  Never forget it.  It's us who are the ones to drift and wander away.  We can go back to Him though  even after we've "sown wild oats".

In humble repentance seek Him and make your confessions.  He will forgive (see 1 John 1:9).  Take Him at His word.  Just remember, that is God's very costly grace that allows a follower of Jesus Christ to do so.  Never forget this too.

Jesus, keep me near the cross, reminding me of that extra-ordinary act of love, mercy and grace You bestowed upon me.  Thank You for never leaving me and being with me wherever I go.  Amen.

                                                       ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Matthew 8:34 ESV.

Sing, Near the Cross, along with Reawaken Hymns.

Take Your Time - Don't Be Hasty (TT)

One of the basic laws of counseling is to keep quiet and listen.  Use your eyes and use your ears to assess the situation before you collect your words to speak, if speaking be necessary.  Empathy and sensitivity to Holy Spirit's prompting is another given for Christian counselors - lay counselors included.  Not all conversations are counseling ones of course, but the idea is the same; respect for the others and their thoughts and feelings in any given situation.

Hasty words can really foul things up even if we hadn't intended offense to others or promised someone something too hurriedly and gotten ourself into hot soup when we couldn't keep the promise or fell short of fully fulfilling it.

Reining in our tongues can be quiet a feat.  However, with the Holy Spirit's help we can.  One of the Holy Spirit fruit characteristics is self-control.  When we conscientiously practice, the 'fruit' will mature.

James 1:19 exhorts,

"Therefore let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger ..." (ESV).

Our unrighteous anger leads to hasty words.  Let's be hearers who don't forget to take time to listen to God's word first and then to be doers who act upon it.  In so doing we can then take the time to hear others out, consider what someone may actually be saying and only after pondering it, to refrain speaking or to speak helpful words.  We will be more likely to be blessed if we do (see James 1:25 ESV).

A good benchmark suggested by Deborah Smith Pegue in her book 30 Days to Taming Your Tongue is:

"Perhaps we are to spend twice as much time listening than talking.  A good pause would serve us well in the long run"

She continues,

"Time and words are two things that, once gone, can never be recovered ..."

Heavenly Father, Your words are always pure and righteous.  Teach us Your ways.  May the words of my mouth be acceptable in Your sight and hearing.  Remind me not to be hasty to give vent to my words.  Rather to step back, to listen, consider, assess and then if truly beneficial and necessary for the other person, to speak only what Jesus would with the attitude He would.  So sorry for my often hasty words, spoken often in unruly anger.  I do repent and want to practice better self-control guided by Jesus' Holy Spirit.   I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                                     ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 18:13; 20 and James 1:19 ESV.  Also, loosely based on 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Wonderful Words of Life, along with Joslin Grove Choral.

 

Lord's Day Devotion - HAIKU - Half-Truths

 

The Half-Truths got to

me.  Deceitfulness scorches,

my heart burnt.  Let's stop!

Others do to you,

But what are you doing to 

others?  Half-truths hurt!

Integrity tells

and acts truth, like blossoming

flowers, blending hues.

~ ERC April 2025 ~

Lord Jesus, I'm sorry for all the times I haven't been fully truthful to others.  And for the hypocritical stance I take when others have only told me half-truths and I found out and was angry.  By your grace and forgiveness may I work in greater integrity of thought and speech.

You have been so good to me especially in buying my pardon on the cross.  In Your death and resurrection You have given me life and Your Holy Spirit's empowerment to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, until You come.  Thus I remember you by partaking of the broken bread and of drinking from that cup of wine and Your sorrow this Lord's Day.  Amen.

                                                ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Sing, Remembrance, along with Hillsong.

See also, Half-Truths (TT).

Wheedling Ways of Manipulation (TT)

 Manipulating others with your words is similar to flattery.  Flattery is often used to influence ones 'target' to some self-serving end.  There's no integrity nor sincerity.

When one wishes to bend another to ones will and way, coercive words and behavior can steal the other of their freewill choice, if they are not alert to the manipulation.

Have you ever tried it?  Bribery, blackmail and such are also related tactics.  Not nice at all!  Hopefully, as followers of Jesus Christ we will eliminate manipulative speech and behavior from our character.

Stating our case with pros and cons, I feel is different.  One can still leave the end choice to the other and hopefully accept their decison in the end.

This is what Jesus does.  He prepared the gift of salvation, wrapped in all its swaddling clothes of blessings:  forgiveness of sins, eternal life, imputed righteousness; adoption into His family, able to have a close relationship with Him; Holy Spirit's indwelling and so much more.

He offers this with arms outstretched but still leaves the choice up to the individual.  We do well to follow His example in all we do and say.  Sometimes we watch on, brokenhearted, as the person makes a bad decision, just as Jesus once wept over Jerusalem who didn't want His intervention.

Nevertheless, be neither a manipulative perpetrator nor a victim of such a person.  Let's follow Jesus' instead.  He showed us the way (see Luke 20:19-26 - READ it).  He'll never steer us wrong and only acts for our good and best benefit, and in our best interest.

Here's what Deborah Smith Pegues wrote in her book 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue, on which this blog entry is based,

"Because I am in right standing with God, He surrounds me with favor.  Therefore, I have no need to manipulate anyone for personal gain or advantage" (p. 24).

Let's keep this in mind and act upon it.  He has given us the Holy Spirit to empower us to right action. 

Father God, there have been times when I tried to use wheedling ways to get what I wanted.  It was wrong and I'm sorry.  Thank You for Your forgiveness.  Teach me Your ways that I might not sin against You or others.  Surround me with Your favor.  I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                               ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Luke 20:19-26 ESV.  Also 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Sanctus Real - Jesus Loves You, along with dan4Jesus.

Photo:  Let's Not Spin Yarns.

Flattery or Favor? (TT)

 

There's a saying that,

"flattery will get you no where"

but alas, it often does on people who like to have their ego stoked.  Also, perhaps on some who are of low self-esteem.  But once one realizes the flatterer is insincere and trying to gain some sort of favor,  the false compliments fall flat, leaving the recipient feeling worse off.  They had been scammed!

Scripture says in Jude 1:16 NLT that those who

 "flatter others, do so to get favor in return."

But a true child of God does not need to accept flattery. Remember that John the Baptizer was said to have grown in wisdom and favor with God (see Luke 2:40).  No one complimented or flattered him.  Favor was upon him, given by God.

In her book 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues, we learn that,

"Engaging in flattery is clear evidence of one's lack of faith in God's ability to give favor with other people."

We try to work it out on our own and get ourselves in a tangle.  Instead, seek the Lord for His solution.

Other God-fearing biblical characters who earned favor from others by not resorting to flattering others were: Esther, Daniel and Joseph.  They were respected for their genuine character and integrity even if others had been jealous.  They called upon God in their dire straights.

Jesus himself also grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man (see Luke 2:52).  He did not go around seeking it.

Job was a man of integrity who seems to have detested flattery.  He said,

"I will show partiality to no one, nor will I flatter any man; for if I were skilled in flattery, my Maker would soon take me away" (Job 32:21-22).

Sometimes we may flatter in a joking manner but it seems Job would not even do that.

Flattery is another type of lying.  Let's keep our lips from such deceitfulness.  You wouldn't want your lips to be cut off would you (see Psalm 12:3 KJV)?

When we consciously walk in the fear of the Lord we will walk circumspectly I believe, keeping our words and actions pure and pleasing in His sight.

Lord Jesus, I'm sorry for the times I did engage in flattery in order to gain favor with mankind.  May I also be able to echo Job, "nor will I flatter any man".  Help each of Your followers to echo the same.  In Your name we ask.  Amen.

                                                     ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Jude 1:16 NLT.  Also loosely based on 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Song, Speak (Words Bring Life), along with Toby Mac.

See also, Half-Truths.

Book Review - Silent Horizons - By Chad Robichaux with Jack Stewart - Publication Date: 13 May 2025

 This book will allow you to see plenty of action in Iran.  Fear, anxiety, guns and undercover work.  Foster Quinn, a.k.a. Foster Cottle the Hunter, is at it again.  As Foster and Reza search for and plan out covert ops they move stealthily about.  They're looking for Volkov a suspected arms dealer of very harmful weaponry (well, which weapon is not).  Things happen, twists and turns turn up the excitement levels ... better don your armor.

I believe this story will especially appeal to those who have been and/or still are, in the military, especially the Marines and the Navy SEALS.  The authors have had similar experience so I'm surmising the actions with the ops and weaponry are authentic and believable.  I found that the story dragged a bit for me in places as I'm not familiar with more involved details about such actions.   Having said that, it is good to note that there is still plenty to make your hair curl. 

An added benefit, in my opinion,  is that the story is faith based.  Also, that Foster has integrity and is true to his wife and daughter.  These are big pluses in my book.

                                            ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                           March 2025

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - Immaculate Conception - By Ling Ling Huang - Publication Date: 13 May 2025

 

If a reader is from the art world, I think they will really love to read this book.  For me, a very un-arty person, it took some getting used to but the author made the narrative very imaginative, crafting art with her words.  I therefore found it slow going at first but gained momentum.  At times I disliked what I read and at others, intriqued.  I suppose it's each to his or her own taste.  Overall, it has been a rather spectacular read.

                                                   ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                             December 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Happy Mother's Day 2025 - Mothers' Downtime

 

How does an empty-nester mother celebrate Mother's Day?  She is inbetween mainstream motherhood and grandmotherhood; part one of her job is done - so to speak.  Now she awaits part two.  Of course, once a mother, always a mother but there is 'downtime'.

It could be a bit depressing, maybe.  Your role and identity has been bound tightly for all those 18-20 some years and now things are more or less out of your hands and you have time on your hands.  What can you do?

Are we empty-nester mothers at a loss?  Let's not be lost and tossed about.  Let's hone in on 1 John 3:1-3 (ESV), which reads,

"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.  The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.  Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is.  And everyone who thus hopes in Him purifies himself as He is pure."

For those of us who have accepted Jesus as Savior and Lord we are called a child of God and He has lavished His love upon us.  This 'downtime,' why not bask in His love.

We've given limitless love and care to our children.  Now let our Heavenly Father give you His love and care to us, His child (ren).

As we bask and bathe in His embrace -so to speak - let His love work His restoring power in us as we 'regroup' and prepare for grandmotherhood.  We are His precious jewels.  We are mothers of worth.  We can get our identity now, not in our mothering, but in HIM.  

Meditate upon that!  He loves us, cares for us because we are His child(ren), made in His image.  As we ponder on this and the love He has for us, we can be moulded and shaped to be more like Jesus.  

When we have this cloak of love about us, we have hope in Him.  In turn, we purify ourselves even as He is pure. We can be mothers who fear the Lord and walk in His ways.  We will be renewed and refreshed.

We may have thought we have no more value, worth or 'use' to anyone.  That is a way out fallacy!  We have His love, His image, Hope in Him and that progressive purifying process even with our older age.

This is indeed something to celebrate!

Mothers, Grandmothers, Mothers-to-be and Grandmothers-to-be, celebrate!

                             HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Heavenly Father, You have bestowed so much love upon us.  Bless each and every mother, grandmother and those "to-be's" with Your blessings.  Remind us we are all women of worth.  Help us to influence those in our care with careful nurturing and teaching them of Your great love, introducing them to Jesus.  Thank You for calling us Your children.  In Jesus' name we give You our thanks and gratitude, amen.

                                                      ~ ERC  May 20-25 ~

Based on 1 John 3:1-3 ESV.

Sing, Behold What Manner of Love (Children's song), along with Baptist Favorite Hymnal Songs.

Half-Truths (TT)

One of the things I hate the most is when someone lies to me.  Or the discovery that what was told was only a half-truth leading me to believe one thing when actually it was something else entirely.

But do I do that to others?  I have begun to read the book 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.  One of the things she says about integrity is that,

"When we walk in integrity, we tell the whole truth and not just a fraction or part of it" (Day 1 p. 14-15).

So whether it's half-truths or exaggerations, or other words of deceitfulness and lies, she pairs her remarks with Proverbs 8:7-8.

"My mouth speaks what is true; for my lips detest wickedness.  All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse."

As we examine ourselves against these verses of God's Word in regards to half-truths and exaggerations, think of what branches need to be taken away and which need pruning (see John 15:1 & 2).  Then take action.

Lord, may I be a vessel and vassel of truth.  May my mouth be purged of falsehoods and half-truths and exaggerations.  May truth conscientiously be told.  In Jesus' name I ask.   Amen.

                                            ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 8:7-8 and loosely on 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Truth Be Told, along with Matthew West.

See also, Taken Away or Pruned?

Taken Away or Pruned? (TT)

 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.  Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1 & 2 ESV).

I've found this to be so true when cutting  back and pruning my mulberry trees; true in nature, true spiritually.   Sometimes there's lots to do, leaving the 'tree' rather barren looking.  But sprigs of new growth can spring and sprout up with refreshing greenness, bringing more mulberries.

It's necessary to be aware of what branches are being 'taken away' and which are being 'pruned'.  Is it the fruit of lying or angry tongues and so on that need taming and taken away or, once pruned, is there the fruit of righteousness and of the Holy Spirit bringing forth gracious and pleasant words?  Is there any other behavior that needs attention?

Let's examine ourselves to see what needs to be "taken away" and where "pruning" can bring forth more abundant fruit.  The process may be painful and humbling but may the Lord work in our hearts and minds for His glory and honor.  Let's let Him do His work while we do ours in following His lead.  We are children of God and so we need to become more like Jesus in this aspect and so practice speaking wonderful words of life while we prune out that which does not give Him glory and honor.

"So be it, Lord." 

 Amen.

                                                      ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on John 15:1 & 2 ESV and loosely on 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Debrorah SMith Pegues.

Sing, Wonderful Words of Life, along with The Joslin Grove Choral.

Call Upon His Name

 

Most clothes will have a label on the inside back collar marking the shirt, skirt, dress, pair of pants and so on, as being made by such and such a company.  They have been branded by a particular company, the more well-known the more expensive they are to potential purchasers.

Similarly, believers in Jesus Christ have been 'branded'.  We get labeled as "those who call upon His name."  It's like in 1 Corinthians 1:2 where Paul wrote to the assembly addressing them as,

"The church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours ..." (ESV).  [emphasis mine]

The Corinthian church was noted as being a church who "called upon Jesus Christ's name."

Paul was one who used to persecute all who called upon the name of Jesus (see Acts 9:14 & 21).  So it was dangerous for folks to call upon Jesus' name.  

But how did they come to call upon Him despite that threat?  Those who,

" ... call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Acts 2:21).

They did so in faith as we still can today.  The repentant person accepts Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  They have been saved.  Now they turn from whatever or whoever they once called upon, to now call upon the name of the Lord."

They became 'branded' by the mercy and costly grace of Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior. 

 It is also characteristic of those who call upon His name, to be baptized.

"And now why do you wait?  Rise and be baptized ... calling on His name"                 (Acts 22:16 ESV)

The branding of the heart with the Lord's name becomes public access.  One gets the labeling on their collar, so to speak.  During most baptisms, the officiant will say,

"I baptise you in the name of the Father (God), the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit."

Dripping wet, they come up out of those baptismal waters, going forth and living the Christian life, living godliness by becoming more like Jesus.  This will let people know their 'branding' more readily at a glance.  They'll say, "Ah-ha!  You must be one of those who call upon Jesus' name!"

This because you worship the Lord, in humble repentance, seeking God, trusting Him, and depending upon Him.  You are bearing Jesus' name in faith.  People will take notice. 

Brothers and sisters-in-Christ, we call UPON His name because He first called ours.  Let us live well bringing glory and honor to His name, as we call upon Him and His name.

Lord Jesus, You first loved us and called us by name.  We now call upon Your name since we belong to You.  We call upon Your name in fear, reverence, and awe.  May we each humbly honor You and live up to Your name and so bless You.  This is our hope and desire and we ask for this in Your name that is above all names (see Philippians 2:9-11).  Amen.

                                                 ~ ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 1:2 and Acts 22:16 ESV.

Sing, Jesus Name Above All Names, along with Naida Hearn 1992.

Book Review - University Revolution: Artificial Intelligence and the Transformation of Learning - by Kevin P. Hallinan - Publication Date: 7 May 2025

As I wanted a basic overall, general knowledge idea of what AI was about and it's potential for learning without cheating, I found this author's comprehensive input a bit more than I could chew.  It was too much information for me.  Therefore, I did stumble over the more detailed, technical aspects of the book.  However, at other parts I read eagerly.

I suppose it could be concluded this book can be read by most people:  those who only wish to dip their toes in, but more for those who wish to become more fully immersed with greater understanding of how AI especially ChatGPT, could be more transformative in arenas of higher learning.

Whether on the educator's part for lessson prep or assignment grading, or on the students' part for research, among other functions, I gather that the author seems to be saying AI enhances the experience exponentially and with much greater efficiency.  On the other hand, Kevin P. Hallinan, the author, cautions over usage that eliminates the human touch and interaction that could potentially and harmfully, be lost.   

I feel that Hallinan, although excited and enthusiastic at the great potential AI has in positively transforming the university learning experiences, has quite a balanced view in recommending the use of AI, notably of ChatGPT.  In my opinion, since Hallinan draws on his own developed and developing process of incorporating AI use for himself as a university professor of many years (now retired), and of guiding his students therein, he has a realistic approach that could manifestly assist others in their usage of AI in today's generation and beyond.

                                             ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                           May 2025

Disclaimer:   This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Called By Name

 It's really nice, most of the time, when someone calls you by your name.  Granted, there are many tones of voice employed in the callling of ones name.  Some tones can be tender, sweet and pleasant while others can be downright unpleasant and nasty.

Sometimes it can be sharp or commanding to get your attention in warning of danger or to use caution.  Sometimes its to receive orders of obedience from you mother.  That's often when your full name is wielded.

But it's better than being called by a number.  You are only a number among a thousand other numbers, like going to a government department or clinic.  You are paged by number not your name.  Can you get the feel of that?  So impersonal!

That's why, when I'm told in Scripture that God calls my name ... its so meaningful.  It's that He knows me.  Me!  Out of all the billions of people in the whole wide world, He knows my name and uses it!

Although it's God speaking to Israel, I claim this for myself too, where in Isaiah 43:1,  God declared through Isaiah,

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine."

Isn't this the acknowledgment and intimacy we crave?  God has chosen us and put His claim upon us through His Son Jesus and our faith in Him.  We belong to God and He knows who we are and what our name is and where He can find us.

In the Old Testament God called certain other people by name.  Sometimes He called their names once, but at times it was twice in a row depending on the urgency and seriousness of the occasion.

In Genesis 22:1 (ESV) God called Abraham, "Abraham."  God gave him some instructions regarding his son Isaac.  Later in this incident, God calls twice, "Abraham, Abraham!"  There was extreme urgency here.   Abraham had been about to follow through in slaying Isaac.  God stopped him saying, 

"Now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me." (vs 11 & 12).

Throughout the story of Abraham when he was first still only Abram, the relationship between God and him was close.  They trusted each other and Abraham has been noted for his faith.  In fact, he is called the father of all who have faith in the Lord.

Jacob who had his name changed by God, also knew Jacob's story.  

"And God said to him, "Your name is Jacob; no longer shall your name be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name." 

 So he called his name Israel (see Genesis 32:28).

Pivotal moments in biblical times often prompted name changes.  Abram became Abraham and here we see Jacob became Israel.  The God of Abraham and Isaac became the God of Jacob too.  God promised him that

 "a nation and a company of nations [would] come from [him], and kings [would] come from [his] own body" (Genesis 35:10 & 11).

Then we learn of Moses'situation and how God called him.  It was from a burning bush.  Moses couldn't quite believe his own eyes.  Curiosity got the better of him and he went for a closer look.

"God called to him out of the bush, "Moses, Moses!" (Exodus 3:4 ESV).

His name was called twice.  "Here I am" was Moses' reply.  Moses was then given a mission which he very reluctuantly took on.  By God's grace and mercy we know the amazing feats God enabled Moses to do in helping the Israelites escape from Egypt, and then guide through the 40 years of wilderness wanderings, onward ho towards the Promised Land.

God had known all along where He could find Moses; even in the back side of that desert.  He can find you too and He knows your name.  Just think on that!  He may well be preparing you for a mammoth task, or calling just to be your friend, your confidant like He became with Abraham and even with Moses.

Samuel had been sleeping when God called him.  He hadn't known God yet but God knew him.  "Samuel, Samuel!"  (1 Samuel 3:6, 10).  If you read Samuel's story you'll see he became a prophet.  One never knows what purpose God has for our individual lives, whether 'big' or 'small,' let's be ready and have open ears to hear Him call our name.  Willing hearts,like Samuel's will go a long way too.  

The one that really surprized me was King Cyrus.  He was an enemy king to the Israelites yet look what God said about him in Isaiah 45:1-4, especially verse 3.

"I will give you the treasures of ... that you may know that it is I, the LORD, the God of Israel, who call you by your name".

God introduced Himself to King Cyrus so King Cyrus could come to know Him and how He had helped him.

Even this man, not from among God's chosen nation, God called him by name!  If we feel we are undeserving or unworthy of God's love in some way, remember King Cyrus and what God did for him.  He'll do for you too.  Call out to Him in faith, wherever you are.  He'll hear you and He knows where you are and what your name is.

I like it that even in the New Testament, being called by ones name continued.  Jesus took up the baton on this in His earthly walk.  

He knew Simon's name but changed it to Cephus or Peter.  He gave Peter a mission too (see John 1:42 and Matthew 16:17-18).  He used Peter's name both times.

Then there's that well known sentence Jesus used to call Lazarus back from the dead.

"Lazarus, come out."

The power of resurrection was in Jesus' hands.

He singled out Lazarus to show his divine power.  Not everyone got it though (see John 11:1-44 especially vs 43).

Mary and Martha must have been overjoyed and Lazarus must have wondered what was going on.  He was givien his life back, literally, by having his name called.

Lazarus wasn't given any commission as far as we're told in Scripture.  His name was called more out of compassion for human fraility of grief as well as the big one of showing the power of Jesus' resurrection.  Jesus was and still is a life giver.

Philip's name is briefly mentioned in passing, yet he is named in conversation.  Jesus said to Nathaniel,

"Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." (John 1:48).

In some ways, I feel this is validating Philip.  Philip himself had just newly been asked by Jesus, "Follow me".  Now Philip was recommending Jesus to Nathaniel.  Jesus had made note of it.  Later we see Philip talking with the Ethopian eunuch somewhere on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza and then he was spirited away elsewhere.  History tells us that Philip went out to do mission work primarily in Greece, Syria and the region of Asia Minor."  He was martyred in the city of Hierapolis (AI Overview).

Then we have the tender scene at Jesus' grave with Mary Magdalene.  She supposed Jesus to have been the gardener.  Jesus just had to call her name, I think it was in the gentlest of tones due to her grief.  He called, "Mary."  Instantly she knew who He was then.  Jesus gave her the commission to tell the disciples He's alive and that He was 

"ascending to my Father..." (John 20:16-18).

How comforting to know God and Jesus know our name.  We are the one in a billion to Him; the most precious.

We can be friends with the Lord as was Abraham and Moses.  Jacob-Israel eventually got it.  Samuel, Peter and the rest were blessed.  No doubt, most were given something to do and obedience and faith marked each one.  They were worthy to be called by their name by God and Jesus and so are we, through Jesus.

When He calls your name, will you answer, 

"Here I am"?  

You can call His name too, "Blessed Jesus."  

                                    ~ERC  April 2025 ~

Based on Isaiah 43:1 ESV.

Sing, He Knows My Name, along with the Maranatha Singers.