My Reflections

1st Resurrection/2nd Death

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Feasting On The Word of God   (E) This is for a Bible study group. #2245217 by Marvelous Friend

A new Bible study was posted today. We will be studying the armor of God over the next few weeks. I have added questions for discussion for the week. Drop by, and leave a comment. Let me know if you would like to receive emails as part of the group, notifying you when a new study is posted. We would all love to see you there. You don't have to be a member to participate.

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Poetry Topic of the Month Contest  (13+) Win Exclusive MBs. It ends at midnight at the end of each month. Suggest the topic. #2216416 by Sharmelloween's Expressions

Write a poem about St Patrick's Day 🍀, Tornadoes 🌪, and spring🦋💐🌝. Pick just one or two, or write a poem about all three. You have until the last day of the month to put your entry in. The prompts are listed at the bottom of the contest forum page with internet links to help get you inspired. I will be a guest judge over the next 3 months, March, April, and May. I am looking forward to reading the entries. We finally have one entry. I need some more. Give me a challenge and this entry some competition. 😃

FIVE A.M. IN OKLAHOMA  (E) Poetry entry: Prompt: 3 Rain #2246544 by Lori J

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Take Up Your Cross

Prompt:
Revelation 20:6
Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

This is talking about the 1,000 year reign of Christ at the end of days. Explain the first resurrection and the second death.

Answer:
I found an internet link to an article that explains this even better than I can.
https://www.gotquestions.org/resurrection-first-second.html

Revelation 21:6-8
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

This passage explains the second death. Personally, I get a little confused when it comes to the 1000 year reign of Christ. I do believe it is interesting to hear different views on “end-time” prophecy.

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Take up Your Cross  (E) This will be a daily blog forum. #2225667 by Chris Breva

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Scripture writing - Galatians 6:1-6

Scripture:
1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
5 For every man shall bear his own burden.
6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

Observations:
Verse 1- If we see someone is struggling with a sin, we should lovingly let them know what we have observed in the spirit of meekness (humbleness). However, we should be careful that we are not drawn away into sin with them.
Verse 2- By baring one another’s burdens, we are following Christ's example.
Verse 3- A man only deceives himself if he thinks himself to be more than he is.
Verse 4- I think this verse is saying that actions speak louder than words. Prove your worth through your actions. You can rejoice when you know you have done a good job and someone else didn't have to do it. We feel good about ourselves when we know we have done well.
Verse 5- Every person has their own burden to bear and their own set of responsibilities.
Verse 6- I believe this is saying that we should listen to the Holy Spirit when being taught the Word of God. John 14:26 - But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Application:
We should communicate with others humbly when we observe them committing a sin, but be careful that we don't get drawn into sin too. We follow Christ’s example and live out his law of love when we bear each other’s burdens. Every person should prove themselves by their actions instead of just boasting with their mouth. When they have done well, they will feel good about themselves. Everyone has a burden and responsibility of their own. Always consult the Holy Spirit when someone is teaching you God's Word because the Holy Spirit is the spirit of truth and is able to prevent you from being misinformed.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for giving us your Holy Spirit as a constant companion who will teach us the truth and shine a light on any lies. Help us to follow your example of love and always be ready and willing to help others. Help us to be bold enough to tell others when we observe sin or something not quite right, but help us to be humble and gentle instead of harsh, judgemental, and prideful. Let me always remember actions speak louder than words. Help me to always listen to the spirit of truth.
In Jesus’s name,
Amen

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Gratitude List

1. Homemade food
2. Clocks
3. Watches
4. Sleep
5. Tables
6. Closets
7. Clean dishes
8. Running water
9. Flushing toilet
10. Bug spray