I have recently launched K.O.R.E. online ministry as GOD has called me to be a pastor. I’m following the LORD trusting HIM to work in and through my life to bring GOD the FATHER glory, honor, and praise in JESUS’ name… I plan to write messages weekly and post mostly on Saturdays. I have written 2 messages one from last week and one for this week. My hope and prayer is that you will be inspired to grow in faith, hope, and love in your walk with Christ… I especially want to reach out to those who don’t have a church home. K.O.R.E. exists for those who are dealing with depression, experiencing mental illness, having suicidal thoughts, have attempted suicide in the past, dealing with oppression, feeling like an outcast, facing health challenges, and/or just feeling overwhelmed in life… If anyone needs prayer, support, and encouragement feel free to reach out to me anytime… I will personally respond to you in a timely manner… Come by and visit the website and give me some feedback, leave a prayer request, or express your interest to get involved: K.O.R.E.
What is celebrated is JESUS crucified on the cross.
So HE died. What is that to me?
It was for you… for me… for the whole world…
There is an intimate, radical, and victorious reason HE did so to be remembered and for some to newly discover…
JESUS knew he was about to die before it happened. HE mentions it to HIS disciples that it was imminent.
“As you know, the Passover is two days away—and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” Matthew 26:2
JESUS makes it even more evident of HIS coming death by letting them know how important the woman is who poured out her perfume on HIM…
While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper,a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.
When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked.“This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.”
Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” Matthew 26: 6-13
As HE shared the Last Supper with HIS disciples, HE also knew one of HIS disciples would betray HIM. HE foreknew the previous event: Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priestsand asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. Matthew 26:14
Even during the meal that night, JESUS made it known who would betray HIM.
Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”
Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?”
Jesus answered, “You have said so.” Matthew 23-25
Have you ever felt darkness of being betrayed by someone you knew well. For you, it may be devastating. JESUS knows and understands what you’ve felt and gone through…
Darkness would fall on Judas Iscariot.
When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders.“I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.”
“What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.”
So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. Matthew 27:3-5
You don’t need to respond like Judas!!… You can turn back to JESUS, ask for forgiveness, and be restored to right relationship with GOD again… If you have not known JESUS, you can turn to HIM for the first time and ask for forgiveness, ask JESUS to come into your heart and life, and repent to live the new life JESUS paid for, by HIS death, for you to have…
JESUS went on to say that night that all the disciples would not stay with HIM even when Peter said that he would still be there for HIM even if all the others weren’t. Then Peter said he would even die with HIM. The other disciples also said they would die with HIM.
Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:
“‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”
Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.”
“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”
But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. Matthew 26: 31-35
Have you ever experienced your friends or family not being there for you in your darkest hour? JESUS knows and understand this so well… HE is One who is there for you, will walk with you through it, and lead you into HIS Light if you will trust and abide i\n HIM while waiting for your breakthroughs in GOD’s timing and way…
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter.41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”
43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy.44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners.46 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”
Darkness fell upon JESUS. HE understands the mental, emotional, and spiritual torment that can be experienced in this life… An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. Luke 22: 43-44 Though JESUS’ experience is to a greater degree, have you ever felt so much anguish awakening from a nightmare or feel like you’re living a nightmare and you’re sweating profusely? I have! Again, HE can be relied upon to support you, care for you, and see you through it… HE loves those with depression and/or mental illness. It took me 19 years of dealing on and off with depression and mental illness with ongoing faith and trust being placed in JESUS to see HIS victories in my life, HIS peace finally breakthrough during extreme trials/temptations, and HIS perfect love cast out my fears… If HE did it for me, HE will do it for you too…
JESUS is then betrayed by Judas Iscariot. Soldiers advance to arrest JESUS. The disciples pull their swords and one of the disciples cuts off a servant of the high priest’s ear to which JESUS immediately tells them to put away their swords and heals the servant’s ear back into place.
While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people.Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.”Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.
Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.With that, one of Jesus’ companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”
In that hour Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me.But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26: 47-56
Have you ever felt abandoned and left all alone in your troubles? Though JESUS could have been helped by GOD the FATHER and angels be called upon to save and deliver HIM, HE willingly surrendered. Was this suicide? Would he take HIS own life? No, JESUS would not take HIS own life!!! HE gave HIS own life… with willingness to die at the hands of those in earthly command by sinners for the benefit of all sinners who would turn to HIM to be saved… There is an emphatic and distinct difference. How can you give your life in service to JESUS, rather than take your life ending your opportunities to make a positive difference while alive? You may find yourself in the midst of the darkest depression or season of your mental illness. If so, you need to rely on JESUS to care for you and even carry you along. Then begin to practice loving and caring for yourself the way JESUS does until you are able to do that which may help others… Let HIM rescue, restore, and redeem your life in order to have a testimony to share with others who need your compassion in being an example of what JESUS can also do for them…
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13
JESUS was brought before the Sanhedrin, where the chief priests looked for and made up reasons why JESUS should be put to death. Peter followed within a crowd to see what would happen. JESUS was accused falsely, spit at, and hit with fists… During this time, Peter is noticed as one who was seen with JESUS. Peter had come as far as he was able in his own strength to remain as near JESUS as he could muster.
Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. “You also were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said.
But he denied it before them all. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said.
Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, “This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.”
He denied it again, with an oath: “I don’t know the man!”
After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.”
Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!”
Immediately a rooster crowed.Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. Matthew 26: 69-75
Darkness fell on Peter. He failed in the fight, fell away in fear, and had forsaken JESUS whom he loved in moments of weakened faith. Maybe you can relate on some level. You haven’t lived up to who you thought you were or are meant to be. You were broken by it. JESUS knows and understands!!!…
JESUS goes before the governor Pilate. He asks JESUS if HE is the King of the Jews? JESUS replied “You have said so.” However, when the chief priests and elders were accusing HIM, HE said nothing in response. Pilate did not want to hand JESUS over to be crucified. He gave the option of releasing Barabbas, a criminal, or JESUS who is called the Messiah. The crowd called for Barabbas to be freed. He asked what do you want to do with JESUS. They all yelled “crucify HIM!” Pilate, still not wanting to have JESUS executed, asked for what crime HE had committed. But the crowd yelled even louder “crucify HIM!”
Have you ever been accused of something you haven’t done? Or have you ever felt a part of you die when someone accused of you something you did do wrong? JESUS committed no crime, but was sentenced to die. Yet he would die for “crimes”. It was for our crimes (sins) that we have committed.
Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him.They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him,29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said.30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him. Matthew 27: -31
Have you ever been humiliated and/or beaten down? No one has experienced the depths of that which JESUS did. So HE understands and is compassionate toward you.
Just as there were many who were appalled at him[c]— his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness— Isaiah 52:14
As the soldiers led HIM away, Simon from Cyrene was made to carry JESUS’ cross. Two criminals were also executed on either side of JESUS.
When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left.34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23: 33-34
If JESUS forgave those who were putting HIM to death, wouldn’t HE forgive you for whatever you have done! HE would and HE will…
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence?41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.[d]”
Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23: 39-43
JESUS was able to also forgive and accept the criminal dying next to him who had no time to change his actions or fix/make course corrections for his life. Yet that criminal acknowledged his sin, realized JESUS could save him, and simply asked JESUS to remember him. If you’re still breathing, you are able to turn to JESUS by acknowledging your sin to GOD, believing in JESUS being able to forgive and accept you, and trusting in HIM to remember you to live in HIS Kingdom forevermore… Ask HIM… Maybe, you’re remembering a time when you were closer to JESUS, but have strayed and wandered off the path. You may still make a course correction and return to HIM who is the Shepherd and Overseer of your soul… It is okay to restart a walk with HIM again…
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon,for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23: 44-46
Has depression and/or a mental illness darkened your view of life right now? Has it felt as though the brightness of the sun once shining brightly in your life has faded somehow? Though there is darkness now, there will be a day when the SON will shine all the more brighter again for you… for all who have believed and trusted in JESUS… if not here, then for sure in Heaven…
GOD’s plan to punish the crimes committed by the world was to place all “our” sins upon HIS SON JESUS. HE was to die for us, in our place, for GOD to be able to forgive us and take away our sins by HIS death… All of GOD’s wrath fell upon JESUS, so it wouldn’t fall on us. GOD let darkness cover the whole land. Our whole darkness covered HIM. HE died once and for all. For you, for me, for all of us… Will the Light shine again? Look forward to reading my next post soon to understand better what I mean… JESUS wouldn’t stay dead… Life is about to be new…
Isaiah 53
The Suffering Servant
53 Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? 2 For He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, And like a root out of parched ground; He has no stately form or majesty That we should look upon Him, Nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him. 3 He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.
4 Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all To fall on Him.
7 He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment He was taken away; And as for His generation, who considered That He was cut off out of the land of the living For the transgression of my people, to whom the stroke was due? 9 His grave was assigned with wicked men, Yet He was with a rich man in His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was there any deceit in His mouth.
10 But the Lord was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, And the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand. 11 As a result of the [p]anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; By His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, As He will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore, I will allot Him a portion with the great, And He will divide the booty with the strong; Because He poured out Himself to death, And was numbered with the transgressors; Yet He Himself bore the sin of many, And interceded for the transgressors.
I walk past my dad sleeping on the couch. He came to get me. I open the door slowly, quietly. I close it behind me. I realize now that it was unwise of me to not get help and go it on my own. But I didn’t think of getting help until it was too late. Ask for help if you need it!…
I walk away further than I had been into the darkest night. I had been walking away for quite some time. Away from faith and trust in JESUS. Late nights, barely any sleep. Trying to get through my university classes and working. Hadn’t been eating much if not at all for weeks. Thoughts began turning against me until suicidal. I realize now I was needing to eat and nourish my body and was part of the reason my mind turned against myself. Nourish your body so as not to do it damage or cause the wiring in the brain to malfunction/misfire…
As I walked onward, the intensity of the situation became unbearable. GOD seemed to be warning me and I questioned it wondering if I should turn back. Then I made the decision to go farther at a quicker pace. Swarms of mosquitos appear out of nowhere attacking my hypersensitive self to make matters worse and more dreadful than at first. It was torturous and had never happened to me before nor anytime after. I think about turning back again. I continue on instead. I believe GOD was trying to stop me, but I wouldn’t listen. I realize now that it wasn’t GOD’s heart for me to do. GOD doesn’t tempt us to hurt ourselves or to commit suicide and wants us to trust HIM as HE works in and through us to become who HE’s called us to be…
I understand though how someone can get so low as to commit suicide. I don’t judge, yet I know that GOD’s heart is not for this to be the outcome…
I ended up in a field of abandoned cars. Ironic that this is how I felt. Abandoned. An empty shell of my former self. Wide open to the elements. No more human presence. Not able to go anymore. Broken spirit like all the engines there. I sat in one of the doorless vehicles contemplating for hours whether I’d take my life or not. Then I contemplated what seemed like just minutes or seconds. 2 or 3 times got ready then decided this is it. It was then as if the enemy of my soul took his heavy pressuring off of me as I attempted. It was as if he pushed me to that edge. Then I was left all alone. So I thought. I realize now that GOD doesn’t give up on anyone and will help us when we turn back to HIM in trust continuing to live on until HE rebuilds us… Place your trust in GOD to get you through anything by choosing to endure and persevere for there is great reward if you do…
I came up for air. I realize now GOD wouldn’t let me drown, because HE had a plan for my life… But I didn’t know it then. GOD has a plan for a hope and a future for you too…
Confused. What did I do? I was scared. Cursed. Accursed? That is how I felt. I realize now that GOD has great compassion and enduring mercy. HE wouldn’t abandon me like the car in the broken empty graveyard. But I didn’t know it then. GOD will show you great compassion and enduring mercy to the most difficult things you’ve experienced in your life… Let HIM help you too…
I’m still alive. Am I though? I felt so lost, ashamed, and guilt ridden as I walked back. I realize now GOD would find me, heal me, and forgive me further along the healing journey. But I didn’t know it then. At some point GOD will find you, heal you inside, and forgive you too if you ask HIM, seek HIM, and knock for HIM when don’t give up (took time over 19 years to experience healing of various aspects of my mind, heart, soul, and spirit). JESUS is faithful and true and I couldn’t do it on my own without HIM… HE’s brought me this far and I give HIM thanks in all things the good, the bad, and the ugly…
As I reached the nearest road, a person pulled over and took me to my apartment with my dad unknowing of one of the darkest moments of my life. I was so desperate that I didn’t even tell him the seriousness of what I was dealing with. I realize now that GOD moved on my dad’s heart to come get me traveling over 800 miles after I called my mom and let her know I wasn’t doing good. If you need to be honest and tell someone you need help too, do it… It’s ok when you’re feeling so very weak to get support until you’re better… Don’t wait (especially if you’re thinking of suicide and/or not eating…) It’s ok… Getting help is being human and alive… If you don’t have anyone, feel free to reach out to me… Email me at: jeffandtami@truevine.net
There are emergency numbers to call on this website as well.
If you're overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts
or have a plan for suicide, it is ok to
get help from a mental health professional
for meds to help support you
as well as counseling as you look to be hopeful again
and better manage your precious life
(especially if you've been abused or experienced trauma in any way)...
You're worthwhile and valuable...
I care about you!!... Reach out to me anytime...
I want you to be an overcomer and a fighter...
L.ive O.n V.ictorious E.ndeavor
Choose L.O.V.E.;
L.ift-up I.nspirational F.uture E.ndure
Choose L.I.F.E.
In my acronym, S.T.A.R.T.S. will mean:
something you do…
something new you do…
something you continue to do…
Spiritual
Truths
Activated
Renew/Restore/Replenish
Together
Soundness
What is Forgiveness?
I did not like the definition of forgive in the Merriam Webster dictionary due in part that it said “cease to feel”. To forgive someone or yourself is more than that and also different than that. I believe you can forgive, yet still feel the hurt and pain until a process of healing takes place over time where feelings about it begin to diminish and for some the feeling may never fully go away. There is more hope then to have the ability to forgive if we know that feelings involved may still linger on… The good news is that GOD is willing, available, and able to help us forgive if we are struggling with this very thing.
So I looked up the Greek word of forgive. It is aphíēmi.
It comes from the root word apo and híēmi.
ἀπόapó, apo’ means:
a primary particle; “off,” i.e. away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative):—(X here-)after, ago, at, because of, before, by (the space of), for(-th), from, in, (out) of, off, (up-)on(-ce), since, with.
ἵημι híēmi means:
(to send; an intensive form of εἶμι eîmi, to go)
So let’s think of forgive as even just these 2 words separately (apó) and (híēmi)
If we choose apó, then we may take “off” and move “away” (from something near) in various senses (of place, time, or relation). Then if we choose híēmi, we may “send” it away in order “to go” forward…
This is so good what to forgive does for us.
Here is what it looks like: I forgive __________ to take “off” this hurt done to me and move “away” from it. I “send” it away in order “to go” forward…
Here is a new way to approach an experience of forgiving as a decision made with this process now in mind to do and an action within the heart to occur:
Ex. 1
I will forgive __________ because I need to take the abuse that happened in the past “off” my life and move “away” from ___________ and that which has been so near affecting my senses (thoughts, emotions, feelings of my mind, heart, soul, and spirit wounds) where I have been haunted/fearful/anxious/angry/depressed/suicidal by certain places, time it occurred through time up until now, and in my relations with myself and others. I “send” this abuse away to YOU GOD in order “to go” forward in new life with a new start… Begin to heal me within…
Ex. 2
I will forgive myself because I need to take the addiction that happened in the past “off” my life and move “away” from addiction and that which has been so near affecting my senses (thoughts, emotions, feelings of my mind, heart, soul, and spirit wounds) where I have been haunted/fearful/anxious/angry/depressed/suicidal by certain places, time it occurred through time up until now, and in my relations with myself and others. I “send” this addiction away to GOD in order “to go” forward in new life with a new start…
Ex. 3
I will forgive __________ because I need to take the rejection that happened in the past “off” my life and move “away” from the act of rejection by ___________ and that which has been so near affecting my senses (thoughts, emotions, feelings of my mind, heart, soul, and spirit wounds) where I have been haunted/fearful/anxious/angry/depressed/suicidal by certain places, time it occurred through time up until now, and in my relations with myself and others. I “send” this rejection I’ve experienced away to GOD in order “to go” forward in new life with a new start…
When combined together, here is the meaning:
ἀφίημιaphíēmi, af-ee’-ay-mee;
from apo G575 and ἵημι híēmi (to send; an intensive form of εἶμι eîmi, to go); to send forth, in various applications (as follow):—cry, forgive, forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone, be, go, have), omit, put (send) away, remit, suffer, yield up.
What is allowed:
I cry. I cry because of what ____________ has done to me. I cry in release from _____________ in order to forgive _____________. I cry now that _______________ has no hold on me. I cry to begin my healing journey.
I forgive__________ for what he’s done/ she’s done/ they’ve done/ I’ve done.
I can forsake my abuser/ my addiction now that I’ve forgiven.
I lay aside what was done to me by _____________ since I’ve forgiven ____________.
I leave ____________ in the past because I’ve forgiven _____________ for a new beginning.
I let alone/be/go/have what was done to me by ______________ to be in my past for I’ve forgiven _______________ and move on so my present begins healing on into my future.
I omit __________ from my life now that I’ve forgiven _____________ who no longer will have a hold on me.
I put (send) away ___________ from affecting my life any longer since I have forgiven _______________.
I remit what _____________ has cause in my life for I forgive ________________.
I suffer due to what ______________ did, but I forgive ______________ so that my suffering will let me grow in all areas to be a better person for myself and others.
I yield up______________ to you now GOD to deal with, now that I’ve forgiven _________________.
Forgiveness then is letting go of the hurt and pain caused by another, others, or oneself:
to start anew
to begin the healing process
to drop the heavy load you’ve been carrying
to break off the hold another or others have had on you that is bringing you down
to be free from the mental anguish, internal conflicts, and/or suicidal ideation
to becoming more free from the emotional fears, anxieties, anger, depression in order to deal with life positively and effectively
to allow for grieving (5 stages: denial/isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance)
to move on from toxic relationships
to move on past self-harm and/or addiction
to accept, care for, and love yourself
to love others and have meaningful and special relationships
to love GOD
Be Forgiven To Forgive
GOD lets us know we are all in need of ultimate forgiveness and this is accomplished by recognizing our need for our own forgiveness, asking HIM for forgiveness, and believing in and trusting in HIS SON JESUS to come into our hearts to save us and help us live a new life:
22 This righteousness is given through faith inJesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement,[i] through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Romans 3: 22-26
You may be afraid to come to the LORD because of your own sin (it is too much, your guilt is to heavy, and your shame is unbearable), yet HE wants you to come and be forgiven:
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, Acts 3:19
18 “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12
How can you know for sure you’re forgiven and saved:
But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim:
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:8-10
Who is forgiveness for:
for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13
John 3:16-17
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
GOD in HIS Word tells us to forgive others:
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Matthew 6:14
3 So watch yourselves. “If your brother or sistersins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. 4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-4
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
What happens when you forgive as GOD wants you to? You are still angry about what the person/people have done? GOD says in HIS Word that HE will deal with that person/people:
Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19
After accepting JESUS and now being forgiven, what happens if I sin again not wanting to. Every Believer is going to sin after receiving JESUS as LORD and Savior. Because of your relationship being reconciled to GOD, you are now able to confess your sin to HIM and not hide it. HE will forgive you and purify you when turning back to HIM with a repentant heart desiring for restored relationship. Then walk again being forgiven.
9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
This is in no way a license to continue sinning purposefully or in pride thinking HE won’t deal with it at some point. HE will convict us of our sin by HIS Spirit and we will need to turn in repentance with humility. If we are prideful and continue sinning, HE will humble us.
Hebrews 12:4-7
God Disciplines His Children
4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”[a]
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children…
Hebrews 4:15-16
15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Examples of Forgiveness
You may have a family member or close friend that wronged you in some way, but you don’t want GOD to repay with a vengeance. Can you forgive someone close to you and pray that GOD would have mercy on them?
Yes! A resounding yes…
Read about Moses, after getting the Ten Commandments, was told by GOD that HIS people HE rescued out of slavery from Egypt, had made an idol to worship instead of remembering GOD and what HE had done for them. GOD was ready to punish them and said HE would put them to death and start over. Moses prayed and asked GOD to not hold it against them and to remember HIS covenant and what HE had done to deliver HIS people. GOD listened to Moses and relented.
You may have a family member/members that wronged you in some way and GOD will use you to bring about good for the one or all involved. There may be a future story of you being used of GOD to rescue, restore, provide, or protect in some way.
Read about Joseph who was mistreated and rejected by his brothers, sold into slavery, and then rise to leadership by Pharaoh in Egypt. GOD used Joseph to save his family from a widespread famine and ultimately forgive his brothers of their wrongdoing accepting them and their families with places to live in Egypt.
You may have been used by a sibling that took from your parent in some way and you received nothing or less than.
Read about when Esau Forgives Jacob after Jacob returns during a long time away from Esau. Jacob had fled when he learned Esau wanted to kill him for taking away his birthright and then later took his father’s blessing away from Esau as well.
You may have sinned greatly causing much harm to yourself and another/others. You are discouraged and don’t know if GOD will forgive “this”.
Read about David and Bathsheba where David sees her bathing and sends messenger for her to come and lay with him. He finds out she becomes pregnant while her husband Uriah is out fighting in the war. He tries to cover up his offense at Uriah’s expense. When Uriah is not cooperative with David’s plan, David orders that Uriah be put on the front lines and then have the army withdraw so that he dies. Nathan confronts David about his sin. David turns to the LORD in repentance and asks for forgiveness. GOD forgives David, but there are consequences for his selfish sin. Now the child they conceived together dies. GOD restores David and blesses him and Bathsheba when HE allows them to bear another son named Solomon.
Focus For Forgiveness
Here is a model prayer to pray to GOD for forgiveness from extreme guilt and shame of the greatest of sin we may have committed:
Psalm 51
For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.
1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.
7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you. 14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 My sacrifice, O God, is[b] a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
18 May it please you to prosper Zion, to build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous, in burnt offerings offered whole; then bulls will be offered on your altar.
Power of Forgiveness
I have been changed by GOD’s forgiveness of my many sins. I have learned from HIM by HIS extending to me forgiveness through HIS grace, mercy, and compassion. Because of this change that has taken place within me, I am more apt to extend grace to others, to show mercy with cheerfulness, to listen with compassion, and to readily encourage others who need this. I know HIS love more for me and I am able to love HIM and others in return. I am now able to forgive others quickly and it be a regular response I have, since I was forgiven of so many sins, failures, and poor decisions in my own life.
Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to eat. And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet behind Himweeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, “This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.”
Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said.
Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven–as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:36-50
I so love this story of JESUS forgiving this distraught woman who so powerfully showed love to HIM… A person who is forgiven much loves much! When you’re forgiven, you become a more loving person to GOD and to others…
Science of Forgiveness
Click the link below and read the full review about Forgiveness:
The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley covers the following topics:
What is Forgiveness? Why Practice It? How Do I Cultivate It?
It is well worth the read and has science based research about forgiveness.
Here is some of the information from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley:
What Is Forgiveness?
We can learn about it from what forgiveness is not:
it’s not glossing over or denying the seriousness of the offense against you
it’s not having to forget the offense nor accepting/excusing the offense as ok/right
it’s not having to reconcile with the person who harmed you especially in the case of abuse
it’s not releasing them from legal accountability in the case of severe wrongs
Why Practice It?
Here are just a few benefits:
makes us happier
protects our mental health
improves our health
sustains relationships
good for marriages
boosts kindness and connectedness
How Do I Cultivate It?
Here are just a few ways:
it’s something you do for you, not a gift for someone else (though I do believe you can also gift someone with forgiveness if your heart is to reconcile or help them too)
express your emotions to yourself and to others
consider what you’ve learned from what happened to you -if there has been something positive gained from it
practice empathy
practice mindfulness of hurt feelings to choose forgiveness more readily
If you're overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts
or have a plan for suicide, it is ok to
get help from a mental health professional
for meds to help support you
as well as counseling as you look to be hopeful again
and better manage your precious life
(especially if you've been abused or experienced trauma in any way)...
You're worthwhile and valuable...
I care about you!!... Reach out to me anytime...
I want you to be an overcomer and a fighter...
L.ive O.n V.ictorious E.ndeavor
Choose L.O.V.E.;
L.ift-up I.nspirational F.uture E.ndure
Choose L.I.F.E.
To shareone’sdeepest or mostintimateemotions,thoughts, or secrets,especially in a profuse or suddenmanner.
expressyourdeepestfeelings or thoughts in a fullandunrestrainedway.
Our Need
With being human, we all need an outlet to release our thoughts and emotions in a constructive manner that will ultimately benefit us with sharing such things with someone rather than keeping it all within – “bottled up” per say.
A bad attitude toward life may be due to holding within bitterness toward a person who has wronged us or toward difficult life event/s without ever dealing with the thoughts and emotions that accompany it.
Depression personally may be due to holding within anger toward self, anger and grief about missed opportunities, or anger and grief about difficult life circumstances (including loss of a loved one) that have happened over time.
Ways of Expression for Sweet Release
My favorite way to pour out my heart is through writing poetry and sharing my hurts, disappointments, difficulties, and sadness with GOD HIMSELF in learning to trust HIM to use hardships, trials, and tribulations to build within me faith and strong character. I allow HIM to mold me into a better person through it all.
If I kept everything in without talking about it and dealing with it, I would go back into deep depression that I experienced as a youth. I once kept everything in. I didn’t talk. I was a loner for the most part, with only a few friends. All my thoughts and emotions were locked away. What I experienced because of this was anger inside, anger at life, mistrust of people, and really being a hateful person. It was a detriment to me personally. What if I had someone to talk to about what I dealt with instead of going it alone. I didn’t have a relationship with GOD, at the time, who would have listened to me and helped me had I known I could turn to HIM for HIS care and support. Life is difficult enough without having to also deal with unresolved and negative thoughts and emotions weighing heavily on the mind, heart, soul, and spirit.
A river needs to have an outlet to move along in forward motion as rains fill it to overflowing. A river whose outlet is the ocean finds release from the pressure that otherwise builds up as in the case if a dam was built to contain it.
Our minds need an outlet for our thoughts, our hearts need to have an outlet for our emotions to move along forward in this life, our souls need to have an outlet to share hopes and dreams, and our spirit needs an outlet to connect to JESUS and our future in eternity…
If we don’t have an outlet, then negativity backs up, builds up pressure, causes one to erupt at some point with damaging consequences that may include suicidal thoughts and/or suicide attempts as an extreme measure seemingly forced into. It simply becomes too much to handle and the stress is now too overwhelming.
Who To Turn To
If you have a close friend to talk to about anything and everything, consider yourself blessed to have that special someone in your life. Not everyone has that.
Going to a counselor to help sort through life’s baggage that may include depression, mental illness, suicidal ideation, abuse, and/or trauma can bring breakthroughs in your life as you face these giants head on and learn to overcome and heal from the hurts you’ve experienced. It takes time, sometimes a very long time to see results.
I have my wife who is my helpmate for sure and can listen to a certain extent. Yet, I don’t have that one guy in my life that I can talk with, be accountable to, and share my burdens I experience through life.
If you’re like me and need someone other than your spouse or a counselor, then GOD is the relationship you are to establish that can change everything in a positive direction…
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
JESUS is the Wonderful Counselor who fills that deep seated need for support and encouragement we all need…
JESUS is Mighty GOD who fills the role of Protector and a Defense against our enemies…
JESUS is Everlasting FATHER who fills the role giving us the love and provision we need…
JESUS is Prince of Peace who fills the role of giving HIS peace within us to deal with anything that comes our way…
Pour Out Your Heart to GOD
Pouring out your heart to GOD is the single most beneficial thing you can do in your life. He listens and understands. JESUS, when HE came to earth as one of us (human too), experienced every type of temptation, stress, emotions, and thoughts yet was without sin. After HE died on the cross to satisfy GOD’s wrath, overcome death, deal with our enemies including satan, and to deal with and forgive our sin, HE became our High Priest who understands our weaknesses, daily bears our burdens, and prays for us. HE knows and understands us more than anyone else can.
Pouring out your heart to GOD = extreme closeness to the heart of GOD
David, a shepherd boy, who later became the king of GOD’s people is known as a man after GOD’s own heart. Do you know why he was a man after GOD’s own heart. David turned to GOD whenever he was dealing with life’s ups and downs and poured out his heart to HIM. He wasn’t perfect and sinned in terrible ways. So why then was he still a man after GOD’s own heart. He made many mistakes, yet he turned to GOD quickly and asked for forgiveness and desired the relationship to be restored. When good happened in his life, he turned to GOD and gave HIM thanks. David is the author of many of the Psalms in the Bible. If you want examples of pouring out your heart to GOD, you can read through the Psalms which are heartfelt pouring out of emotions and thoughts that were burdensome to bear and deeply troubling to heartfelt pouring out of emotions and thoughts expressing gratitude.
I highly recommend getting a spiral notebook or other journal and begin the process of pouring out your heart of all its emotions and thoughts, hopes and dreams, failures and successes, and deepest needs expressed to GOD and you will be radically changed for the better by doing so… Share your thoughts with HIM, cast your cares and anxieties onto HIM from your heart, bare your soul to HIM, and send up flares from your spirit unto HIM… As you do so over time, things will begin to transform within you through development of your seeking relationship with your Creator who knows all things, knows you, knows what you need and yet wants you to just talk to HIM…
Pouring out your heart to GOD is a way of delighting in HIM… There is a wonderful promise to receive when we do this…
Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
As I have delighted in the LORD, HE has given me some desires of my heart already:
* a wife
* children
* inspiration to write (mostly poetry)
* deliverance from fears and anxieties and being suicidal
* help and support with my mental illness (more of a sound mind and peace within)
* an orphan ministry
* ability to serve with children as one of my passions
* a heart of compassion with ability to show mercy with cheerfulness and to encourage others
* desire to be a pastor
Psalm 62:5-8
5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. 6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. 7 My salvation and my honor depend on God[a]; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. 8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
Then to have faith’s security, hope’s clarity, and love’s sincerity that increases
Thankful for HIS mercy…
Once so trapped in the deepest pit
Then to have the fortitude to never quit
Thankful for HIS compassion…
Once so alone in shock doubting and questioning all of reality in total darkness
Then to be brought near to HIM contrite into the Light rescued so my mind works with new ability and noble sparked interests
Thankful for HIS giving me faith…
Once so wavering in turmoil thought I’d been tossed out to sea with Heaven now closed
Then to be set free with destination in fact now open forevermore so my soul alert to HIS faithfulness knows
Thankful for HIS giving me hope…
Once so fearful, empty, selfish, and filled with self-hatred
Then to be at peace, fully restored, reaching out, and overflowing fulfillment so my hearts desires come true of its longing created for, awaited for, and elated for the sacred
Thankful for HIS giving me love…
Once so weak sinking beneath the pressure and stress anxiously in agony left to my malady of bankruptcy almost a tragedy
Then in renewed strength rising above accepting my spirit beyond measure to profess consciously in cadency my testimony of amnesty about HIS remedy
Thankful for HIS giving HIS Spirit reuniting mine…
Mine or yours having fierce suicidal thoughts are not a sin in its reoccurring more than meditation
Mine or yours having fierce suicidal thoughts are a battle we can win enduring the onslaught and persevering until disaster passes without retaliation
My frontline reality is fighting beyond suicidal ideation into dreams desires for realization
My focus centrality is encouraging all to make it out within HIS remediation
My frame of reference is faith, hope, and love to abound from the Creator to HIS creation
My family I live for so I continue to press on with determination
My faith is that I don’t live for myself alone, but unto HIM in adoration
My freedom is to live pure to be secure in God the FATHER’s hands for the SON’s traits rebuilding within this clay as HIS formation
I know some will overcome every moment into freedom in the future with just being blood bought
I know some will succumb to its’ warring thoughts, yet with faith as small as a mustard seed will put trust in HIM continually knowing its not for nought
I know some will be numb from the scarring its wrought, yet rise above into new life after whats fraught
I know some will come to know JESUS once sparring alone to discover who helps in the battles fought
I know some will become found to enter in HIM after the jarring being stuck as HE lifts up with compassion from the pit caught
I know some will be from outer darkness until starring with HIM from mercy inward being taught
I know some will fall seven times and rise again 8, since each turn for help is hope and strength in HIM having sought
I know some will face their giants with grace until each one is slain to stand above the onslaught
This poem is from my new post Stand at beavoicefororphans (my other blog that you may or may not follow) that you can read in full. We take a stand against sexual violence…
Hidden for only you child hurting for healing to find will find; entering within faith, hope, and love so kind
Quicken for only you child to receive grace, mercy, and compassion combined to bind together with miracles designed to remind of HIS greater Love to you inclined…
Forbidden is sex abuse, incest, pornography, sex trafficking, rape defined
Ridden by GOD Almighty of abusers, incest perpetrators, pornographers, traffickers, and rapists confined
Stricken by GOD Almighty with HIS HOLY terror, PURE fury, All POWERFUL attack, STRONG DEFENSE infiltrate, and WARRIOR FIGHT against these sinners in the hands of an angry GOD quarantined in agony resigned
Light posts
At the start
At the end
Turn on shine
As night fall
Inspire most
Love impart
To you send
Burn within entwine
For insight call
Where darkness pervades all around
Stay where the Light cascades until found
Until sun’s rays fades the black
Dawn of a new day lays foundation back
Come home
From above chart
Course to mend
Time to unwind
Be contrite stall
Rest alone
Retune one’s heart
With Him to tend
Soul He does find
To dine with your all
Where darkness pervades all around
Stay where the Light cascades until abound
Until sun’s rays fades the black
Dawn of a new day lays foundation on track
Alive; atone
Near now from afar
Healing begin open
No longer left behind
Builds up aright Refuge walls
Arrive; shown
Promised land correlate your star
Defeat enemies who contend; always will HE defend
Made stronger in HIS will aligned
Guides through breakthrough fight the good fight past what appalls
Where darkness pervades all around
Stay where the Light cascades be still in HIS renown
Until sun’s rays fades the black
Dawn of a new day lays foundation in covenant contact
This is for sure -I know Who helps us through our sorrows…
We aren’t promised tomorrow at any time
In fact
There’s no going back.Or can we?Pack? Step into a time machine hijack?
No, odds are stacked against us and left us out of whack -but we can take time to remember, reminisce, revisit again whereas only HE can turn back the hands of time to redeem…
Though older
There is youth regret with desire to start over
We can start over and with time become much wiser
There’s no getting younger age wise to retract
There is backtrack to ask for forgiveness white as snow to be exact
Time stands still
Love can do that;become young at heart to keep intact facing the facts head on -make a comeback
However brief and for however long is its lifelong impact…
There’s still time
For love to carry on
Choose to make a difference before its gone
Time is of the essence
Find love in HIS Presence
Be filled up with overflowing cup upon a mountain top experience
Time is a healer;heals all wounds
Come back down into the valley of the shadow
To help our fellow brother or sister below… Death may come fast, all of a sudden, and everybody know or occur solo so slow -either way let love show…
Time flies when you’re having fun
So time dies when you’re not -no, it’s for faith inside to grow… hope inside to know… love inside reaching out to bestow…
Faith, hope, and love remains as HE alone sustains wherever we are and wherever we go…
Time changes everything
We are changed, it’s true, as we walk along
Changed by the sadness and bitterness or changed to maturity ongoing with each new dawn…
Running out of time
Make moments count even so
An eternal fount awaits beyond the rainbow
At times, let go of time constraints
Enjoy the still and quiet silence or choose opposite of any violence toward others or yourself; begin a new endeavor
A goal may be to get through whatever the weather; give up never, yet ready for forever…
Time to come in
Come in from the cold -no longer alone;come bold to the throne of grace to obtain grace and mercy in times of need until found a home; come hold on until the disaster passes over -out of the war zone
Rest your weary soul in HIM; bought at a price not your own…
Time is now
Act in such a way to bring honor, glory, and praise to our Creator
Best to do so sooner, better late than never, or miss out all together later
Time to go
On a trip of adventure ready for departure
Make lasting memories to capture ever ready to really leave this earth with the rapture
It’s time
Time to know the Way, the Truth, and the Life
So that your time eternally is spent in Heaven beyond internal sin, death’s sentence, pain and sickness, screaming solo, and negative strife
This time…
I live not for myself alone
I’m here for who I love;making HIM known…
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
A Time for Everything
3 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.