*Deidre*

I’m under the impression that David was instructing Joab how to conduct himself for the sake of the congregation, as David was setting an example of “how” to mourn.

No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. - Luke 8:16

When you lie down, you will not be afraid. Your sleep will be sweet. - Proverbs 3:24

What do you think it may mean? I’ve been reading about that but I’m not sure what to make of a “worldwide” currency. Like if it would be better or worse than what we have, now.

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NLT)

Well, Scripture does say that we can't serve both God and money. One will give way to the other, eventually. Serving money isn't the same as using it to pay bills, and viewing it in a healthy way - that God has blessed us with a job, and money to take care of our financial obligations. Money is the currency a secular world uses to get by, but we mustn't serve it. When we serve money, we are then treating it like an idol. When we are good stewards over it, using it in healthy ways, we don't let it master us. That's how I've come to understand it. But everyone brings up some very good points, and it's great that we can discuss it here so we can help one another not stumble when it comes to money.

I don't think that the OP was implying there is anything wrong with 'getting wealth,' but rather having an unhealthy concern over it. Money isn't evil in and of itself, it's when it becomes an idol, and when we seek it above our relationship with God, that it becomes a problem. It's a very subtle thing. No one really sets out to say ''Money is the most important thing to me!'' In a culture obsessed with consumerism, it's very easy to become obsessed with wealth, and always wanting more money.

Great thread topic and it’s always relevant because the spiritual battle really never ends. Everywhere we turn, we have so much noise coming at us to distract us from God. Social media, work issues, political problems, our own family dilemmas that arise at times, etc… What has helped me prepare every day is waking up earlier in the mornings so I can plan quiet time for journaling, praying and reading Scripture. It’s essential for me now. Like brushing my teeth, it’s become automatic and I need this time daily with Jesus, alone and quiet. Letting myself slow down before the day starts and distractions come up, to truly listen and gain strength for the day ahead. I find that I’m not so easily stressed from having this morning routine and it’s been so amazing.

As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person. - Proverbs 27:19 (Side note: there are a few different translations of this, all slightly altering the meaning, imo.)

1 Corinthians 15:58 So my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is useless.

It’s unfortunate that so many people only feel validated and affirmed by the amount of stuff they own. I used to be a little obsessed with online shopping, and it always left me empty after that initial purchase. It was fun but the feeling went away quickly and I’d be wondering after a few weeks, why did I buy that? I’m grateful for my faith that grew deeper during the past two years, because I’m just free now and not seeking money and things to bring me happiness. Thank you for posting such an uplifting thread!

It’s sadly surprising that an 18 year old isn’t allowed to buy alcohol legally in the US, but he can buy two semi-automatic assault rifles with hundreds of rounds of ammo and no questions asked. Something needs to change here and I think that the laws can become stricter against guns falling into the wrong hands while still protecting responsible gun owners’ rights. We can talk about all the factors and people along the way who didn’t help Ramos in his lifetime, but he should never have been allowed to purchase those weapons.

What if you just let go, and believed in His love?

Nooo way I could eat that. Even if there was nothing to eat, for days...I might decide to starve to death. That looks so bad!

I live in a warm climate where there's like three days of winter, and the rest is spring/summer. lol Enjoy your change of seasons, I miss them.