By M Camelangemy (also Joshua M, Mark A. Campbell)
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September 20, 2024
Post 3 [789], Highlights: [P3] (8) CTC[7-11], All 5 Foundational Articles for CTC segment; Also (7) PC[10.4], Prv10:17-21. For START see Post 1 [123]. Shorthand, Longhand. Educational Note below... (Mnd18,Sat18) Added (7) PC[2.3], Pro02:10-13. Also, PC[10.5]. MND(9:15,34 am) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs Commentary, PC[2.3], chapter 2, verses 10-13. Also, Proverbs Commentary, PC[10.5], chapter 10, verses 22-27. (Hvn21,Sun05) Update to (8) CTC[12], introduction, Pushing Reset, Rewarding Work article. Also under Work Schedules. HVN(8:51; 9:27 am) Hello! Update to (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[12] Pushing Reset: Letting Work Become More Rewarding article intro. Also under Work Schedules. (Wdn20,Sat04) Adding (8) CTC[12] Pushing Reset: Letting Work More Rewarding. WDN(9:50 am) Hello! Added (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[12] Pushing Reset: Letting Work More Become More Rewarding. (Son17,Wed01) Updates to (8) CTC[3] Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents. SON(6:37 am) Hello! Updates to (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[3] Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents. (Wdn04,Thu19) Added (7) PC[10.4], Prv10:17-21. WDN(10:30,35 am) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs Commentary, PC[10.4], chapter 10, verses 17-21. (HVN05,Sat16) Added (7) PC2[2], Prv02:7-9. Also, PC10[3], Pro10:11-16. HVN(8:58; 9:40 am) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs Commentary, PC2[2], chapter 2, verses 7-9. Also, PC10[3], chapter 10, verses 11-16. (MIN02/Wed13) Updates to (8) CTC[1], More Orderly Time/Month & Weekday Names. MIN(8:59; 9:01 am) Hello! Updates to (8) CTC[1], More Orderly Time/Month & Weekday Names. (HVN30/Wed21) Added (8) CTC[7-11], ALL 5 Foundational Articles for the CTC Segment! HVN(8:30,40 am) Hello! Added (8) CTC[7-11], ALL 5 Foundational Articles for the Come To Consensus Corner Segment! _____ ______CONTENTS PC[1] Proverbs 10:1-5 Commentary PC[2] Proverbs 2:1-6 Commentary CTC[1] More Orderly Time, (A) Weekday Names section, then (B) entire article, with Month and Weekday Names CTC[2] Horses! CTC[3] Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents CTC[4] A Former Policy Question Responses Page (more current issues to come) ______DAILY NOTES (PLD30/Tue08) Added (8) CTC[4] Past Short Policy Question Responses PLD (10:35 am) Hello! Added (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[4] Past Short Policy Question Responses (WDN23/Fri03) Added (8) CTC[1], [8-Day Calendar] More Orderly Time, with Month and Daynames. Addition at top of (8) of Dayname segment. Update. WDN (11:56 am; 12:22-23,37,44 pm) Hello! Added (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[1], [8-Day Calendar] More Orderly Time, with Month and Daynames. Addition at top of (8) of Dayname segment. UPdate. (Wed25/FAN16, 12:31,33; 3:06-07 pm) Format update, verse 31 comments of Prv 11; Update. (Mon23/PLD14) Important Update to Posts 3,2. Now added (7) PC[1], Prv11:27-31. PLD (10:38,58 am) Hello! Update to (7) as Proverbs Commentary, with (5) again Eternal Express. Now also added (7) PC[1], Proverbs 11, verses 27-31. (Fri20/TEU) Adding (7) EE[1], Finding Joy and Real Growth, Matthew 5:1-11, wisdom through Christ TEU (12:58; 1 pm) Hello! Added (7) Eternal Express, EE[1] Finding Joy and Real Growth, based on Matthew 5:1-11, wisdom through Christ, Opening of the Sermon on the Mount (RIZ17/Sat26) Additional (8) CTC[6], Driving Under the Influence. Update. RIZ(5:08,27,50 pm) Hello! Additional (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[6], Driving Under the Influence. Update. (Mnd10/Sat19) (8) CTC[5], More CPQ's, Next up Questions 4-6, by 6:45 AM. Added (7) PC[3], Prv10:6-10. Posted (8) CTC[5] Question 4 Response, Longer than anticipated. Please pardon delay. Update. Questions now 5&6 Responses, then new 7 likewise, posted (8) CTC[5]. MND (4:53; 5:18;6:50; 7:01,03,13; 8:23,29,33 am) Hello! (8) CTC[5] More CPQ's, Next up Questions 4-6, by 6:45 AM. Also, added (7) Proverbs Commentary, chapter 10, verses 6-10. Posted (8) CTC[5] Question 4 Response, Longer than anticipated. Please pardon delay. Update. Questions now 5&6 Responses, then new 7 likewise, posted, (8) CTC[5]. (RIZ09/Fri18) Added (8) CTC[5], More Current Policy Questions and Short Answers. RIZ(5:18; 8:53 am) Hello! Please pardon delay. Added (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[5], More Current Policy Questions and Short Answers, perhaps more to come daily... (TUS04/Sat12) Update. Starting now with Pro10, (7) PC[1]. Also see Page Contents List below. Update to CTC[1], Names for Tuesday. TUS (10:01,18,27,44; 11:11,39-40,49-50,53; 12:11 am) Hello! Update. Starting now, (7) PC[1], Proverbs chapter 10, verses 1-5. Also Page Contents List below. Update. Update to CTC[1], Names for Tuesday. (MUN03/Fri11) Added (8) CTC[2] Horses! and CTC[3] Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents. Also, (7) PC[2], Pro02:1-6. Update. MUN (10:27 am; 12:15 pm) Hello! Added (8) Come to Consensus Corner, CTC[2] Horses! and CTC[3] Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents. Also, (7) Proverbs Commentary, PC[2], chapter 2, verses 1-6. Gaining true wisdom. ______ _____(7) Proverbs Commentary ______PC2[2] PROVERBS COMMENTARY PROVERBS 2:1-6: "1 My son, if you accept my sayings And treasure up my commandments, 2 By making your ear attentive to wisdom And inclining your heart to discernment; 3 Moreover, if you call out for understanding And raise your voice for discernment; 4 If you keep seeking for it as for silver, And you keep searching for it as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of Jehovalz', And you will find the knowledge of God. 6 For Jehovalz himself gives wisdom; From his mouth come knowledge and discernment." "1 My son, if you accept my sayings And treasure up my commandments," Prove 2:1: Proverbs 30:5 says "Every saying of God is refined." Jesus said in prayer, at John 17:17, "Your word is truth." We can count on God's word the Bible containing powerful, dependable truths. Let's appreciate the 'sayings of God,' and treasure up his commandments. "This is what the love of God means, that we observe His commandments, and yet his commandments are not burdensome (or, wearisome)." (1John 5:3). God's genuine commandments ('not going beyond the things written'), now primarily through Christ, are for our protection and benefit, essential to keeping God's standards in our life, and maintaining His blessing upon us, having His approval. "2 By making your ear attentive to wisdom And inclining your heart to discernment;" Prove 2:2: Recall that we have two ears and one mouth, so we should be good listeners before being good speakers. A truly wise person continues to humbly listen and learn from others, rather than becoming a "know-it-all." Of course, the gaining of knowledge is fine with proper motive, but is best preceded by the acquiring of a "heart of [true, divine] wisdom." May our ears be attentive to genuine wisdom from God, the successful application of knowledge, in God's view, and may we seek discernment, the ability to see the difference between right from wrong, good from bad, true from false, wise from unwise, more valuable from less, and the more important matters of law from lesser matters, though still required. "3 Moreover, if you call out for understanding And raise your voice for discernment;" Prove 2:3: May we call out for understanding and discernment, by seeking God's assistance in prayer, that largely we may ensure proper motives in serving God, loving Him first and foremost (Matth 22:37-39). God is the One who by far has loved and still loves mankind the most, so true love will faithfully act in line with God's will in seeking to love others, rather than doing things our own way, seeking our own glory. (Prove 20:6). With understanding, we can begin having empathy for others, comprehending their situation and circumstances to help as we may be able, understanding people better. Later, this quality can help one begin seeing the big picture from God's view, along with all the smaller pieces of knowledge and how they interrelate to one another, coming together to make the whole, seeking God's glory in making use of such knowledge, not our own (John 7:18). "4 If you keep seeking for it as for silver, And you keep searching for it as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of Jehovalz', And you will find the knowledge of God. 6 For Jehovalz himself gives wisdom; From his mouth come knowledge and discernment." Prove 2:4-6: This quest for genuine godly wisdom should be valued and sought after like hidden treasures, seeking to understand true godly fear and truthful knowledge of God and His law and purposes. Godly fear includes a reverential hoss of God and fear of displeasing our loving Father. We should be always appreciating God's gift of life, and the uncountable gifts we experience every day, from the incredible variety of foods, beautiful sights, smells, sounds, etc. that make a wonderful life possible and enjoyable, especially in God's new world of righteousness. It is ultimately from God, more than any materially wise alone, that we receive true knowledge and discernment. And receiving it from God, it should therefore be used in agreement with God's will, and not simply according to our own ideas. ______PC02[2] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 2:7-9: "7 He treasures up practical wisdom for the upright; He is a shield for those walking in integrity. 8 He watches over the paths of justice, And he will guard the way of his loyal ones. 9 Then you will understand what is righteous and just and fair, The entire course of what is good." These verses follow on the heels of instruction to find "the knowledge of God" by seeking understanding and discernment, as well as the healthy fear of displeasing God. Prove 2:6 added that "Jehovalz himself gives wisdom; From his mouth come knowledge and discernment." Discernment sees the difference between things, such as good from bad, right from wrong, true from false, serious matters of law from lesser ones, though still required. God instructs us in such things, educating and refining our God-given conscience, that we may be guided in the right way from His word. "7 He treasures up practical wisdom for the upright; He is a shield for those walking in integrity." (Prv02:7) Jehovalz gives the upright, who are seeking Him, practical wisdom, to be able to successfully apply knowledge in life, for the loving benefit of others and themselves. Such ones, as we should desire, seek to walk in integrity, seeking to act the right way despite trials or difficulties, prayerfully confident that our faithful God Jehovalz "will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear [that is, temptations "common to men" stated in the verse previously], but along with the temptation he will also make the way out so that you may be able to endure it." (1Cor 10:13). Yes in this way, Jehovalz "is a shield for those walking in integrity." "8 He watches over the paths of justice, And he will guard the way of his loyal ones." (Prv02:8) Jehovalz "watches over the paths of justice," wanting to safeguard the freedom to serve Him faithfully among right-hearted lawmakers and judges of the earth. It is God's word that should be respected and revered as the touchstone of peace-loving right conduct among mankind. Jehovalz will guard His loyal ones, watching over them as they seek to walk with Him, by right conduct, on the path leading to endless life. "9 Then you will understand what is righteous and just and fair, The entire course of what is good." (Prv02:9) By seeking to walk with God, and seeking to comprehend the knowledge of God, you may come to understand "the entire course of what is good." This evidently includes "what is righteous," or in accord with God's right laws, standards, and ways. It includes "what is...just," in harmony with divine justice, which takes into account God's merciful concern for His human creation. And it includes "what is...fair," or reasonably equitable between involved parties. May we seek to grasp the entire course of what is good--essentially all that is involved in the pursuit of God's will, that we may "calculate the cost", knowing what's required, of building discipleship under Christ Jesus/Joshalz. (Luke 14:27-28). ______PC[2.3] PROVERBS COMMENTARY WHAT ATTITUDE CAN PROMOTE A GOOD LEARNING ATMOSPHERE? Proverbs 2:10-13: "10 When wisdom enters your heart And knowledge becomes pleasant to your soul, 11 Thinking ability will keep watch over you, And discernment will safeguard you, 12 To save you from the bad course, From the man speaking perverse things, 13 From those leaving the upright paths To walk in the ways of darkness," "10 When wisdom enters your heart And knowledge becomes pleasant to your soul, 11 Thinking ability will keep watch over you, And discernment will safeguard you" (Prv02:10-11) True wisdom needs to reach our heart for it to do much good, affecting our actions or behavior, not just our speech. Abundant knowledge, or understanding of the world around us may do little good if it is not guided by a properly motivated heart. From the letter called the first of Peter, we read "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, while you throw all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you." (1Peter 5:6-7) We should be deeply respectful of God, His word and way of doing things, regardless of whatever knowledge we may possess. Christians are instructed to use their "power of reason" in serving God effectively (Romans 12:1). Recall that discernment or "difftell" is the ability to tell the difference between true and false, right and wrong, good and bad, and things such as serious matters of the law from lesser matters, though still required. How important to look to and learn from God and His word to gain good judgement in such things. In the Bible book of James we read: "If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, who gives generously to all, and without reproaching, and it will be given him. But let him keep asking in faith, [aiming to never doubt]..." YES, God cares and wants us to gain more wisdom from Him, and He does so "without reproaching"--not seeking to humiliate or shame someone for what that one has not yet learned. Quite often the question someone asked was on the mind of more than one student! Educators will sometimes vary class levels according to common differences in student ability. Regardless, there should be an atmosphere of RESPECT for one another in a genuine learning environment. Obviously progress in many areas of life will vary from one person to the next. You are not aware of the gems that God has put or is causing to grow in the heart of someone else, people have been made to contribute in various ways to the whole of a community. However, this is a two-way street. While we want to be treated with consideration, we need to treat others in a similar way. We want to learn among friends, and be willing to overlook or forgive an occasional thoughtless remark from another. All should aim to promote a learning environment that is largely free of such fears and worries of ridicule, and rather be supportive of one another, on the same team, or in the same family--the human family! Anyone having trouble with important thinking and logic skills should pray about the issue, and find or receive assistance to begin correcting matters. Certainly Jehovahz wants all lovers of Him to acquire "thinking ability!" Understanding things well usually takes considerable time and effort, as does learning to read, for instance, but can be highly rewarding. Of course, any seemingly insurmountable deficiencies now can be fully corrected under the rule of God's Kingdom, and God will bless the right kind of progress. "12 To save you from the bad course, From the man speaking perverse things, 13 From those leaving the upright paths To walk in the ways of darkness," (Prv02:12-13) This thinking ability and discernment saves us from many things, "from the bad course," as we're able to see the difference between good and evil, favoring and choosing the good path. These things save us "from the man speaking perverse (or, corrupt) things." Thus we're able to identify corruption, when words stray from the path of integrity. They also save us "from those leaving the upright paths to walk in the ways of darkness." Those leaving the right path do not really find the joyful heart they may be looking to find or that God wants us all to have. However, people are seeing that God's law or word is more reasonable than they may have thought, even making so much sense, and so beneficial! Thinking ability and discernment protect us from exposure to wrong influences, helping us maintain right desires before God, the course of true happiness, despite what others may consider. May our stand for faithfulness encourage others to remain on God's side, the side of the truth, real joy of heart, and eternal life. _____PC[10.1] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 10:1-5: "1 Proverbs of SolĘąo·mon. A wise son makes his father rejoice, But a foolish son is the grief of his mother. 2 The treasures gained by wrongdoing will be of no benefit, But righteousness is what rescues from death. 3 Jehovalz will not cause the upright one to go hungry, But he will deny the crooked what they crave. 4 Idle hands will cause poverty, But diligent hands bring riches. 5 The son acting with insight gathers the crop in summer, But the son acting shamefully is fast asleep during the harvest." Prove 10:1 How does Solomon begin? With encouragement for a son to become wise, making his father rejoice, and not causing grief to his mother. What fine reasons for any person to take to heart God's wise counsel! You will thus be gaining "heart," or good (loving) motive. How delighted good and loving parents are to find each of their precious children delighting in divine wisdom and the doing of right as God instructs us! And what a happy future this will lead to as all obedient mankind learns God's ways of true peace and happiness! "2 The treasures gained by wrongdoing will be of no benefit, But righteousness ('godly lawl') is what rescues from death." Prove 10:2 God can see to it that there is no lasting value in anything obtained by violating His divine standards, yet we should bear in mind that God's standards include mercy where it may be extended by Him in His good judgement, particularly where genuine repentance is shown over some past error(s). Thus, where an endeavor may have not been blessed by God initially, it may in time receive His blessing under certain circumstances. On the other hand, from the beginning accepting God's standards and choosing to live by them is far better, and means life to those doing so, at times even protecting one(s) from untimely death. Also, helping others to learn and practice what is right in God's eyes can "rescue them"--restore their life spiritually, preserving their hope of eternal life by God's kindness! "3 Jehovalz will not cause the upright one to go hungry, But he will deny the crooked what they crave." Prove 10:3 The one keeping God's ways, treasuring His commands and standards, will pray and have what is needed in the way of food and life's provisions. As Joshalz (Jesus) declared in the Sermon on the Mount, at Matthew 6:33, "Keep on, then, seeking first God’s righteousness and the Kingdom, and all these other things will be added to you." Notice, it is both things we are to give priority to--God's righteousness--aiming to maintain integrity to God, blameless obedience, and the Kingdom, which often involves sacrifices we make in serving God. (It has been indicated that God’s righteousness is what should appear first in this Bible verse, by proper Greek translation). An important Bible principle was stated by Samuel: "Look! To obey is better than a sacrifice--to pay attention than the fat of rams!" Saul's serious pattern of disobedience led to God's selection of David as King. May we thus treasure godly obedience, that Jehovalz may then look upon any of our sacrifices as pleasurable! Also, David himself acknowledged about God's upright servants: "I was once young and now I am old, But I have not seen anyone upright abandoned, Nor his children looking for bread." (Psalm 37:25). May we thus rejoice to obediently love and honor God and His loving will for mankind, and continue to receive of His blessings and support! "4 Idle hands will cause poverty, But diligent hands bring riches. 5 The son acting with insight gathers the crop in summer, But the son acting shamefully is fast asleep during the harvest." Prove 10:4-5 Such lovers of God need to learn diligence. This is defined by Merriam Webster (2018) as "steady, earnest, and energetic effort." Often, a lazy one has been praised too much for having knowledge of something, rather than for using that knowledge by working to benefit others. Commend especially young ones who use their knowledge to help others in some practical way. We should also keep our eyes on the blessings and rewards of hard work, such as the lasting sustenance that can be obtained by harvest work. Acting with insight, or empathy, seeing how our work can truly benefit others--not just ourselves--can aid proper unselfish motivation. (Still, in a world where not all are completely trustworthy, young ones need good training from parents or guardians, with a lovely desire to help others, that they not place themselves in any needlessly threatening circumstance—of course, according to age and level of experience. ______PC[10.2] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 10:6-10: "6 Blessings are on the head of the upright one, But the mouth of the crooked conceals violence. 7 The memory of the upright one is due for a blessing, But the name of the crooked will rot. 8 The wise-hearted person will accept instructions, But the one speaking foolishly will be trodden down. 9 The one walking in integrity will walk in security, But the one making his ways crooked will be found out. 10 The one who slyly winks his eye causes grief, And the one who speaks foolishly will be trodden down." Also, you may recall adding the 'l' to 'law' so that the term registers in the mind correctly as human language almost always requires important concepts to both begin and end with consonants rather than vowels. Also, the notion of keeping both Actions and Words between the lines, as in l a w l, is maintained. (Prv10:6) Those pursuing a right course will have God's blessing on their efforts and activity. "It is the blessing of Jehovalz that makes one rich, and he adds no pain with it." (Prove 10:22). Those bad at heart, however, could deceptively speak the right things, covering over their violent hatred for others. What an important contrast to make early on in these proverbial sayings! How important it is to seek to practice what is truly right before God, having His blessing and approval. Recall that Jesus said that he did NOT come to "destroy" or do away with the Mosaic Law(l), but to FULFILL it--make it more complete. (Matth 5:17). We learn much from that lawl, although now Christian principles and standards show a better way of applying it, and holding to what is right by God, keeping that Lawl in a Christian way, aligned with Christ's teachings. But the ransom of Christ, while providing for abundant mercy over past sin, is not intended to cause us to dismiss sin altogether--Christ set a pattern of obedience to God and His lawl that all should aim to follow. "7 The memory of the upright one is due for a blessing, But the name of the crooked will rot." (Prv10:7) Making a good name with God, seeking His honor before our own, pursuing His will first in life, will bring His blessing and allow us to have a good reputation before God-fearing persons, a name with God that can last into eternity. Putting Him first, God 'opens His hand and satisfies the desire of every living thing.' (Psalm 145:16). Those intentionally disregarding God, wrongly pursuing a selfish course will not have God's favor, and will not make a lasting name for themselves. Again, important lessons early on in Proverbs! If we want a good reputation before others that can truly last, let us take God's side and trust Him, holding firmly to His lawls and standards, even if we may be besmirched by others temporarily as in a system still marred by ungodliness. God and Christ will lovingly see to it's correction! "8 The wise-hearted person will accept instructions, But the one speaking foolishly will be trodden down." (Prv10:8) As we grow in godly wisdom, we gain a wise heart that can accept and appreciate God's guidance. Foolishness, on the other hand, does not contribute to respect for God's lawl, and those unrepentantly holding to such a foolish course could mislead others by their wayward thinking and conduct. The foolish one disregards God's ways, preferring his own ideas. Recall, from Proverbs 1, that it was disrespecting all of God's discipline and reproof that would lead to disaster, saying "They refused my advice; They disrespected all my reproof. 31 So they will bear the consequences of their way, And they will be glutted with their own counsel. For the waywardness of the naive will kill them, And the complacency of fools (being satisfied with their own ways) will destroy them. But the one listening to me will dwell in security And be undisturbed by the dread of calamity." They thus need more understanding of the consequences of good and evil, to develop more hatred for what is bad, in the healthy fear or hoss of God. "9 The one walking in integrity will walk in security, But the one making his ways crooked will be found out." (Prv10:9) We need to learn to keep integrity to God, holding to His right standards in life in spite of trials. We thus walk in security under God's spiritual protection, looking forward to life under His rule, largely free of ungodly pressure to violate His standards. On the other hand, those only pretending to practice what is right, while secretly violating God's peaceful and loving standards, cannot keep up their cover indefinitely. How vital to be honest about our mistakes and seek help to correct any wrong tendencies we may have! Born imperfect, conceived in sin, and living in an imperfect world, practically all have a battle to wage against such wrong thinking! But we can win, pleading to God for His wisdom, coming to greatly esteem Him, being in hoss of His greatness, we are moved to want to be close to God, not displeasing Him. But He's not disappointed, as we do our best to hold to what is right, even if we occasionally miss the target unintentionally, or without full realization! Consider, for example Psalm 103:2-5, 8-11: "Let me praise Jehovalz; May I never forget all that he has done. 3 He forgives all your errors And heals all your ailments; 4 He reclaims your life from the pit And crowns you with his loyal love and mercy. 5 He satisfies you with good things all your life, So that your youth is renewed like that of an eagle...8 Jehovalz is merciful and compassionate, Slow to anger and abundant in loyal love. 9 He will not always find fault, Nor will he stay resentful forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor has he repaid us what our errors deserve. 11 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So great is his loyal love toward those who (respectfully) fear him." "10 The one who slyly winks his eye causes grief, And the one who speaks foolishly will be trodden down." (Prv10:10) Such ones, showing partiality, concealing hatred for others, cause much grief--such ones should shun deception and trickery, and appreciate God's love for them, moving them to walk God's way with an honest heart, speaking the truth in their heart. (Psalm 15:1-2) Thus, the saying that "the one speaking foolishly will be trodden down" is mentioned twice in the last three verses. Clearly, God wants us to understand and avoid speaking as though it is enough to be satisfied with our own way of thinking, without putting forth any effort to learn or appreciate what God thinks about matters. Proverbs 3:5-8 says "Trust in Jehovalz with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding (or, way of thinking). 6 In all your ways take notice of him ("consider His view" in all you do), And he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not become wise in your own eyes. Fear ("Revere") Jehovalz and turn away from bad. 8 It will be a healing to your body And refreshment for your bones." ______PC[10.3] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 10:11-16: "11 The mouth of the upright one is a source of life, But the mouth of the wayward conceals violence. 12 Hatred is what stirs up contentions, But love covers over all transgressions. 13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning person, But the rod is for the back of one lacking good sense. 14 Those who are wise treasure up knowledge/knowing people, But the mouth of the fool invites ruin. 15 The wealth of a rich man is his fortified city. The ruin of the poor is their poverty. 16 The activity of the upright one leads to life; But the produce of the crooked one leads to sin." "11 The mouth of the upright one is a source of life, But the mouth of the crooked conceals violence. 12 Hatred is what stirs up contentions, But love covers over all transgressions." (Prv10:11-12) The upright one typically has true love as his motive or aim, keeping God's law out of love for Him, and with love for others. Such a person desires to share knowledge of God with others, helping them find and stay on the path of endless life. Psalm 37:30 says "The mouth of the upright one imparts wisdom, and his tongue speaks about justice." However, hatred is in the heart of the crooked, therefore his mouth conceals the violence that is inside. Such a one needs to fear God, realizing His great power and purpose, and let hatred be replaced with love for God, experiencing His mercy, and love for others (Psalm 103). "13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning person, But the rod is for the back of one lacking good sense." (Prv10:13) The discerning one has come to have a grasp on the truth in life, seeing the good, while hating the bad. To gain the proper fear or awe of God, according to Proverbs 2, both discernment and understanding are needed. We need to learn to tell the difference between things, to judge between true and false, right and wrong, good and bad, and so on--"make sure of the more important things." Such a discerning person is able to speak and share much in the way of wisdom. But one lacking good sense needs good discipline to find needed correction. "14 Those who are wise treasure up knowledge, But the mouth of the fool invites ruin." (Prv10:14) The wise ones treasure especially the right kind of knowledge. A foolish one may learn and speak only of things that contribute little to a good course in life. Here is where understanding comes into view. As we acquire good discernment, and grow in understanding, which involves seeing God's view of matters--we're thus better able to absorb important, especially divine, knowledge. Another proverb says: "The scoffer (ridiculing fault-finder) seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the person with understanding." (Proverbs 14:6). May we thus give God first place and be considerate, respectful of others as we seek to understand them with empathy, and to understand more about God's loving purpose, and life itself to His honor. "15 The wealth of a rich man is his fortified city. The ruin of the poor is their poverty." (Prv10:15) A wealthy person often looks to money as his primary source of protection, as a "fortified city." Even a poor person may not be looking to God as a refuge. May both learn to rely upon God more than all else, seeking God's Kingdom and His righteousness first (obedience to God with integrity) as Christ instructed (Matt 6:25-33). Doing so, the necessities of life, and perhaps much more, will be provided by God, while putting forth reasonable efforts to make a living as needed. "16 The activity of the upright one leads to life; But the produce of the crooked one leads to sin." (Prv10:16) As Christ also stated, a good tree produces fine fruit, upright ones speaking and doing things leading themselves and others to life, while a rotten tree produces worthless fruit, crooked ones speaking and doing things that lead themselves and others into sinful practices, that sin causing headaches, heartaches, grief and troubles, distancing ones from God and others, at times requiring intervention from parents, teachers, or spiritual shepherds to assist ones to get back on the path of eternal life. While caring about all, we still need to guard our closest associations from those promoting sinful or harmful practices, so that instead we may "follow the way of good people, and stay on the paths of the honest, For only the upright will reside in the earth, And the blameless will remain in it." (Prove 2:20-21). ______PC[10.4] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 10:17-21: "17 The one who heeds discipline is a path to life, But the one who ignores reproof leads others astray. 18 The one who conceals his hatred speaks lies, And the one spreading malicious reports is mischievous. 19 When words are many, transgression cannot be avoided, But whoever controls his lips acts discreetly. 20 The tongue of the upright one is like the finest silver, But the heart of the crooked one is worth little. 21 The lips of the upright one nourish many, But the foolish die for lack of sense." (Prv10:17) As we've discussed previously, discipline is not synonymous with punishment. Rather, it is loving correction, with the word coming from the same root as "disciple", bringing to mind teaching and training. Given out of genuine love, a child should be moved to listen and heed the discipline. Any punishment should be sparing, with exceptional effort to ensure the child realizes the loving motive behind it, with clear emphasis on the lesson(s) to be learned, and the way to avoid such punishment in the future. In all actuality, the term "punishment" itself is worth re-examining, as a "pun", a play on words that offers correction in a loving way, is often enough to provoke a change of heart in a sensitive child. Reproof is strong discipline, needed in certain circumstances. Jehovalz said regarding the wayward nation of Israel that He would discipline them "to the proper degree," and by no means leave them unpunished. (Jeremiah 30:11). Hebrews 12:6 says "those whom Jehovalz loves he disciplines, in fact, he scourges everyone whom he receives as a son." Thus, all of us at times need loving correction! If we refuse, especially strong correction we truly need, we not only hurt ourselves, but as the verse says, our continued stubbornness in an erring course can have a negative effect on others, possibly 'leading them astray.' "18 The one who conceals his hatred speaks lies, And the one spreading malicious reports is mischievous." (Prv10:18) One trying to cover up their hatred for another is clearly being deceitful, and will therefore 'speak lies' seeking the cover-up. While it is no good to hate another human being made "in God's image," the degree of hatred or dislike can vary, and approaching him before it gets "out of hand" (whether yourself or others when appropriate) might help him have more love for that person and possibly others. While we need to be forgiving if we want our own mistakes to be forgiven by God, we should also approach a person if he has committed a sin or serious wrong, to determine the truth, and straighten things out one way or another. All are to seek peace with one another, and not allow hard feelings to fester! Jehoshalz (Jesus) said "Go, make peace with your brother, and afterward offer up your gift", indicating that such peace is more important to God than sacrifices we may be presenting to Him. But we should also be giving to one another the benefit of the doubt, not assuming that another has no interest in peace, our peace with God and with each other. Prayers for others that may be having a hard time can also sometimes have a powerful effect, which may help all to see things differently, seeking greater understanding or compassion for one another. Proverbs 4:23 says "Above all the things that you guard, safeguard your heart, For out of it are the sources of life." Again, harboring hatred or resentment for another, refusing to forgive them for some slight or offense, can hinder God's own forgiveness toward the resenting one. Recall in Jehoshalz's model prayer, he said "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." (Matth 6:12). Such resentment and hatred may move one to 'spread malicious (or slanderous) reports' about another, seeking to harm one's reputation. Nevertheless, if some harbor, or seek to cover-up, hatred, and gradually become more deceptive, speaking lies, they're continuing a venture into the path of the crook, lacking God's favor. On the other hand, it is basically "impossible for God to lie." He is full of selfless genuine love for mankind, and full of "underserved kindness and truth," as is the Son. May all aim to imitate our loving God and Father, Jehovalz, and His Son. "19 When words are many, transgression cannot be avoided, But whoever controls his lips acts discreetly." (Prv10:19) Clearly, we need to avoid talking too much. It is far better to be a good listener, than to merely always be talking about what is in our heart. Proverbs 18:2 says "A mischievous person takes no pleasure in understanding; He would rather disclose what is in his heart." So such ones need to learn to see things from another's viewpoint, with empathy, thus 'acquiring an understanding heart,' seeking God or Christ's viewpoint. (Prove 8:5). Then this one can know the questions to ask, to add to his understanding, rather than doing all the talking. Thus much transgression can be avoided, as one "controls his lips" and acts discreetly. Such self-control is also necessary to avoid excessive speech, and is part of the fruitage of God's holy spirit, which God gives "to those asking Him." (Luke 11:13). "20 The tongue of the upright one is like the finest silver, But the heart of the crooked one is worth little." (Prv10:20) It is "out of the heart's abundance" that the "mouth speaks." (Luke 6:45). Thus the upright are inclined to speak lovely, right and upbuilding things, with a tongue of "choice silver." Proverbs 25:11 says "The right word at the right time is like golden apples in silver jewelry." (NIRV) Perhaps the advice itself is golden, often depicting divine things, while the silver jewelry carries these words, like the tongue carries words. Silver is also known for purity, having cleansing properties, and scripturally is associated with the mind or thinking processes. There are cases where someone's mind or thinking has been or is being affected by certain chemicals, improper drug use, and similar things, even by cross-gender affects and hormonal disturbances. We should seek the cause of any wayward or crooked thinking that is not simply a product of selfish behavior. "The crooked man out of his crooked treasure sends out crooked things." (Matthew 12:35). Thus in that condition his heart is not producing much for the benefit of others, and needs repentance and a turning to God and His word as a Source of divine wisdom and help. Recall James 1, saying "If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, who gives generously to all and without reproaching, and it will be given him, but let him keep asking in faith..." We all need to trust God and His Son, who want to help us rather than condemn! (John 3:16-17) "21 The lips of the honest one nourish many, But the foolish die for lack of sense." (Prv10:21) "The tongue of the wise makes good use of knowledge," says Proverbs 15:2, as honest ones "nourish many" with spiritually helpful and encouraging words. Such ones often promote understanding of spiritual things, that people may grow in their relationships with God and other humans, and in their own spiritual well-being. On the other hand, some ignore spiritual instruction, lack sense, and have no spiritual life in themselves, and may even suffer physically with a heart straying from sensibleness. Let's honestly examine matters of life, including those regarding our spirit within, heart and mind, and use such knowledge to promote, and not harm, life. ______PC[10.5] PROVERBS COMMENTARY Proverbs 10:22-27: "22 It is the blessing of Jehovalz that makes one rich, And He adds no pain with it. 23 Engaging in shameful conduct is like a game to the mischievous one, But wisdom is for the man of discernment. 24 What the crooked one fears will come upon him; But the desire of the upright will be granted. 25 When the storm passes by, the crooked one will be no more, But the upright one is a foundation forever. 26 Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, So the lazy person is to the one who sends him. 27 The awse of Jehovalz prolongs life, But the years of the crooked will be cut short." (Pro10:22) One of the more familiar verses to many, it states a marvelous principle, that spiritual and potentially material wealth come from having God's blessing on our activity, by seeking His guidance and way of living. Living in accord with His righteousness, seeking His honor and glory, brings His smile of approval and favor, and He blesses us as He did Job and other faithful ones of Bible record. How we need God's blessing to be truly successful, in harmony with godly wisdom moved by love! Psalm 127:1 says "Unless Jehovalz builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it. Unless Jehovalz guards the city, It is in vain that the guard stays awake." May we also give Jehovalz the rightful praise for His blessing and benefits. Two verses, from the King James Version (KJV) perhaps sum this up: Revelation 4:11, referring to, as in verse 8, the "Lord God Almighty," says this: "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." And Psalm 83:18 says: "That men may know that thou, whose name alone is Jehovah {Jehovalz}, art the most high over all the earth." We might also notice that with God's blessing, "He adds no pain with it." Jehovalz desires our happiness and prosperity, He is in no way eager to bring harm or punishment. He only wants to lovingly correct us when necessary, and reward us for loving Him and doing right. "23 Engaging in shameful conduct is like a game to the mischievous one, But wisdom is for the man of discernment." (Pro10:23) The "mischievous" one scripturally is not necessarily unintelligent, but while usually knowing the right thing, often chooses to ignore it. He is not understanding the big picture, and all the many reasons God gives us His good guidance in the first place. He is also not using "discernment" to distinguish right from wrong, good from bad, truth from falsehood, wise from unwise, and more serious matters of law from lesser matters, though still required. Thus, "the mischievous ones glorify dishonor," not concerned about a fine reputation with God, and they "hate to turn away from bad," in contrast to one with a healthy respect for God, which involves the "hating of bad." (Prove 8:13). God's word helps us learn the consequences of both good and bad decisions and actions, that we may ponder such, to come to hate what is bad in fearing to displease God, or hurt Him in any way. "24 What the crooked one fears will come upon him; But the desire of the upright will be granted. 25 When the storm passes by, the crooked one will be no more, But the upright one is a foundation forever." (Pro10:24-25) The "crooked one" usually knows that he is doing wrong, and thus deep down fears having to answer for wrong conduct, whereas the upright have no such worries--they look forward to God's favor and rewards for doing right before Him. If only such ones would repent of their wrongdoing, and "search for Jehovalz while He may be found," calling to Him "while He proves to be near." (Isaiah 55:6-7). Thus truly turning around from their badness can bring "seasons of refreshing...from Jehovalz himself." (Acts 3:19). The "wages sin pays is death, but the gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord." Having faith in the ransom sacrifice of Christ, and hating wrong conduct, ones may no longer "fear any sudden terror Nor the storm that is coming on the wicked." (Prove 3:25). Knowing about that storm is to motivate all to heed God's instructions, preserving life. That storm comes so that true peace may be able to flourish earth-wide, without it being ruined by troublemakers. Right-hearted mankind will form the foundation of eternal peace not just on this planet, but universally, and receive whatever other blessings God may have in store for obedient ones. "26 Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, So the lazy person is to the one who sends him." Prove 10:26 The lazy one often becomes such by being praised for knowledge gained, rather than for efforts made to use that knowledge for the benefit of others, to "work at good", or to "work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith." (1Timo 6:18; Galat 6:10). By praising youths for their efforts and accomplishments, we may help them become "diligent", leading to success and satisfaction. (Prove 21:5; 13:4). "27 The respectful fear of Jehovalz prolongs life, But the years of the wicked will be cut short." Prove 10:27 May we cultivate the healthy dread of displeasing God, of hurting Him in any way. This fear is not morbid, as may be imagined by those believing that God would allow his beloved human creation to be tormented in punishment. When Israel fell to false worship, and began hurting their own children, Jehovalz says of the practice: "which I commanded them not, neither came it into my heart." (Jerem 7:31). See the article "Finding Truth" for further discussion of God's just punishment for evildoers. Rather, we fear God by hating what He says is bad, understanding the harmful consequences of wrongdoing, including its associated heartache, troubles, grief and so on, especially of serious sins. May we rejoice to do good, pleasing God, and bringing His smile of approval, favor, and rewards, including eternal life in true peace and happiness! (Prove 27:11; James 1:12). _____CTC[1] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER, with Extension to Previous Policy: NOTE : I've placed first the segment which concludes the article, on the Daynames in a two-week rotation, as it is the segment of more immediate interest in learning the new calendar, and perhaps seeing it's practicality and other benefits, blessed by God. Week 16: ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: MORE ORDERLY TIME, MONTH & WEEKDAY NAMES DAYNAME SEGMENT With beneficial calendar and month name changes, why not reconsider our day names? DAY NAMES, let's start with the first day of the week, with God's favor on a two-week rotation of names contributing to good order and practicality. Let's look at both the first week dayname, then the second week dayname, one weekday at a time, beginning with Sunday. Sonday, then Righzday . To replace Sunday, For the first day of the month, Sonday, then the following week Righzday (Son/Riz). Regarding 'Sonday', the pronunciation brings clarity when differentiating from the 7-Day. Recall that God refers to his Son's kingship making possible a new day, as a "sun of righteousness". In the two week rotation, this is a day off from normal work, and concludes a logical four- or five-day weekend, rotating with a two-day weekend the other weeks. Sonday also concludes a three-day period that brings a strengthening to the body when understood and heeded, that serves to lessen or diminish disease and untimely death, with the time off work being practical for this benefit, and Sonday referring to the effect of time spent at a beach or in a sauna, and quite safe with the God-blessed GOOD salt intake from a previous day, found in iodized/Pink Himalayan salt and in many teas or tea blends and foods/sauces, etc. More of this will be explained at the end with the other weekend days detailed. Along the same lines, Righzday has reference to right, doing right, associated with the light of truth, and Christ's face once shone "as the sun" before his closest followers, helping confirm that description. Also of note, making rye bread, which really refers to rizing without adding yeast, like croissants, as normally could only be done on this one day weekly and was a lengthy affair, and would deter notions of traveling even to church services on this day. The past idea of a superior eighth day Christian "sabbath" likely led to the two-day weekend, and also perhaps to many church services being held on this day rather than the Seventh day. However, it is being understood that Christians should still recognize the Seventh day as the day God designated especially for rest and church attendance, as Seventh-Day Adventists have advocated for quite some time. Also, with Sonday, the first day of the two-week rotation continuing off work for many, business owners and others could still wisely use some of this time for considering their upcoming week's work/activity. Moonday then Mindday (Mun./Mnd.), It is considered best to have new names for the two-week rotation to avoid confusion with the other calendar. Moonday for the first and third weeks of each month. Mindday the second and fourth weeks could remind us of keeping our minds sharp, and in good practice. Being pronounced quickly may also remind us to use this day, once every two weeks, to have some do work safely removing landmines from affected areas, asking if this sort of thing was making good use of our minds, to threaten each other’s ability to walk, etc.? The first week Moonday has reference to the moon, which was intended for multiple purposes, including as a heavenly timepiece, and God has intervened in our day to line up the moon with the 8-Day Calendar. What a joy to consider the moon once again having the beautiful role God intended it to have! This second day of the week can be recognized for it's significance as providing reflection of the sun's rays, for instance, in the distribution of refreshingly honest enlightenment, despite past times of darkness. Music that is also refreshingly honest and supportive of God's purpose might be intertwined with the day's activities, and under God's Kingdom could increasingly appeal to lovers of peace and righteousness. Tu'sday/Tuseday, then now Toozday/Truce'day (Too./Trs.) now for the first week of rotation, then Truceday/Tru'seday for the second week. Twosomes, Outings or Activities for two or more...Clearly, God's institution of marriage reminds us that we need to be with and cooperate with others to be happiest and most successful. Couldn't it be clear that these next two day-names (Tue & Wed) are just other ways of saying what should have been the obvious, but to many not fully appreciated, that is family or like-family closeness and weddings? Honestly, not everyone had made these connections, at least in more than a light-hearted way...An important acknowledgement is that this is, not the 2nd day of the week (starting Sunday/Sonday) but the 3rd, as God has purposed 3's more than 2's, as His love for and blessing on two even working on something together, looking to God, is what can make them successful--and not necessarily in competition with others, but as for meeting an excellent standard of quality, as all should strive for. Working purposefully along with another, as a pair, or more as a team, contributes to good listening skills, learning to cooperate, more enjoyment when blessed by God and greater success. While the US is found in the first Tus'day/Tuseday, the new second-week Truceday/Tru'seday brings to mind the ending of wars, many wars actually ending on this day of the week, and underscoring everyone's place in God's purpose, aiming to live peaceably with others before God. This is an important U.S. role in God's purpose, related to administering blessings of God's Kingdom earthwide, should we choose to remain compliant ourselves before Him and His Son, the Lord Jehoshalz/AzGod. As for the next day I explain below how I believe it came to be spelled so. Wedinsday and Windzday (Wdn./Wnd.). Wednesday. As long as we can keep the connection in mind and heart, it Wedinsday? Can it not be a day for acknowledging the God's gift of marriage for earthers (landons) and the one each may have been blessed with? It is a legitimate question as to whether marriage ceremonies would best be in the middle of the week, with those able to relieve themselves of their job for the time necessary, somewhat limiting the number of attendees. Rather than affecting weekend plans that some may already have, this could work quite well, but ones may have to be choosy, as they likely may not be able to attend every Wedinsday Wedding that they would like to--employees could use their vacation days, possibly offering one or two more per year. I now appreciate that wednes was formerly an adjective describing someone in a married state, and Wednesday the day of the week celebrating or bringing to mind God's gift of marriage. What of Windzday? There are days that God intended more breezy than others. Of course, having God's spirit with us or at our backs, using knowledge aright, rather than other tricks, etc., makes possible real winning, and win-wins, for God-blessed mutual benefit. This promotes greater peace, rather than unnecessary contention or war. But in another way, Strong winds in the spring and fall for instance, or any season on this day can bring down unsteady trees before they later come down without any warning. Heavenzday/He'nzday and Thunderday (Hvn./Thr.). There may be no need to shorten "Thunderzday" to "Thundzday". Heavenzday of course reminds us of the Universe of the 'Alpha and the Omega', the A and the Z, the Lord AzGod. This universe includes 'stars' (and associated planetary homes), including ones as those that 'shouted in applause' upon the completion of Earth and it's atmosphere, or 'lower heaven'. This is actually recorded in Job 38:7, and refers also to a Heavenly governmental system blessed by God that was decades ago already set up and continues to beneficially manage Earth's affairs, despite attempts to interfere or overtake it. Thunder has intrigued mankind throughout generations, with the appropriate desire for looking to the One above, God, our Shaper, "by whom we walk, move, and exist" (Acts 17), as possessing all the power needed, wishing to do so cooperatively, to accomplish His loving purpose toward mankind. Therefore, what may remind us of Jehovalz'z wonderful and tremendous power, including that of His powerful holy spirit, which He used and uses to accomplish all His will, including control of weather forces and the formation of incredible stars throughout the Universe? How moving is the sound of mighty thunder? How about the fourth day of the week be called, alternately Heavenzday and Thunderzday? Recall that Saturday is three syllables also. We may be reminded of God's power and rulership reflective of His love for all. Starzday and Pleaday/Prayday (Stz/Pld) day known as Friday. Not every sixth day of the week need be a major movie release day--why not alternate, and consider a plead to God on the previous Pleadzday for His blessing on the first and third week's Starzday to be something that truly refreshes people and uplifts them in some way to continue courageously standing for God's fair and true ways in life? Then on Pleadzday some other activities might be enjoyed, perhaps with family or friends, or catching that truly good movie you heard about now the second week. This day can begin a four- or five-day weekend by keeping the previous weekend to two days, and rizing to work on Righzday through Thunderzday, five days. Also, court pleas or pleads may normally be entered on this day. Having this day off, also helps these cases to be free of inteference from last-minute work requests or perhaps illegal demands, as does also moving paydays week two to the following Salvtuday. The first week Starzday, is still normally a workday, but with a view to a possible evening under the stars on the big screen, or in concert, etc. which God-blessed may be more successful, finding something available at the time that truly encourages us or enlightens us in some way from afar. Movie makers sometimes have God's spirit on their work, but may occasionally choose a scene to be included that didn't have it. Editors who review the film the week before release having prayers with them can identify the scene(s) that have more appropriate takes most fitting for a timeless movie experience, blessed by God! Psalmday, then Salvtuday (Psd/Slt) known as Saturday. It is recommended that this, which has been recognized on our calendars as the 7th day of the week, not the 6th, become the day that churches offer early and later services to the public, and in many cases possibly teaching classes in-between, as many people may prefer that additional class instruction be added to one day's experience rather than an additional day, although there could still also be congregation-wide instruction available on additional days. The would permit the remainder of the day and 8th day/weekend to be available for other good activities. Psalmday reminds us of the beneficial Psalms, or Godly Poetic Songs that cover many situations in life, as well as a Rest or Calmday, but with the Softness of 'S'. Also the life-sustaining Palms, ocean trees and perhaps the ocean breeze, thought of for relaxation, welcome and celebration, as in the use of palm fronds or leaves with Messiah's entrance into Jerusalem on a colt. Salvtuday reminds of salt as a preservative, it's historical use as salary, and the vitality it promotes inn good form, especially when God blesses it's intake as on this day. Good salts to receive on this special day of the two-week rotation can include iodized/Pink Himalayan salt mix 50:50 with dried cilantro added, many teas like Chamomile or tea blends, and foods/sauces also. Of course, just as and more important are dear relationships that should also be preserved, which God helps with, and Solving or Resolving any differences by addressing one another and any problems contributing to the difficulty is what we want to do as we are able, or getting help as needed. Having this Dayname can bring to mind ideas to help preserve and strengthen our dealings with loved ones, and to make time for doing so. There is a concern that the name should be Solvtuday to underscore the importance of this aspect of the Day's meaning, but having TV shows or movies that involve these types of themes, solving or resolving such issues with loyal love, knowledge of the satisfying answers that are truly found inside (and not outside) God's true and undistorted lawl (sometimes misunderstood or misapplied), and done so successfully, would certainly be a beneficial project or practice. Fawnday , then Fanday , (Fun./Fan.) now possibly the new 8th day of the week. Fawnday (previously Funday, but now with 'w' double the fun), following Psalmday may include visits to nearby parks or possible park-like settings where deer and fawns are increasingly being sited on this day, or some other amusements of various sorts. The week-later Fanday, which would follow Pleadzday and Salvtuday, while it only occasionally might include showing appreciation, etc. as regards some stars made so by God, from movies, tv shows, etc. from the recent week, knowing the seriousness with which they take such responsibility before the public, with the good work of actors, singers, and the like, Fanday might also involve sharing with larger groups for Sports outings or other venues. While some sports like golf or bowling may be deemed more appropriate for Psalmday and Salvtuday, sports venues in general could be preferred on this eighth day of the week, as also the four-day weekend Pleadzday, Fanday and Sonday, most appropriate as delightful occasions after a week of possibly challenging work assignment(s). Now these last three days of the four-day weekend have a purpose. Taking in salt warms the body somewhat the following day, hence "Fanday". Sports stadiums etc. may do some work making possible some slight comfortable air movement on this particular day. Then the following Sonday brings a cleanzing to the body, but which can be kept to a minimum with use of a comparitively short time in a Sauna, or some time at the beach on a good day. Additionally, each month ends with a Lunaday, an extra day indicating month's end and a new or blank moon, like a blank slate for the coming month. Isaiah 40:21-31: "Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told to you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? 22 There is One who dwells above the circle (or, globe) of the earth, And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers. He is stretching out the heavens like a fine gauze, And he spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. 23 He reduces high officials to nothing And makes the judges of the earth an unreality. 24 They are hardly planted, They are hardly sown, Their stem has hardly taken root in the earth, And they are blown on and dry up, And the wind carries them away like stubble. 25 “To whom can you liken me to make me his equal?” says the Holy One. 26 “Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who brings out their army by number; He calls them all by name. Because of his vast dynamic energy and his awe-inspiring power, Not one of them is missing. 27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and why do you declare, O Israel, ‘My way is hidden from Jehovalz, And I receive no justice from God’? 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Jehovalz, the Creator of the ends of the earth, is a God for all eternity. He never tires out or grows weary. His understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the tired one And full might to those lacking strength. 30 Boys will tire out and grow weary, And young men will stumble and fall, 31 But those hoping in Jehovalz will regain power. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary; They will walk and not tire out.” NOW, THE ENTIRE ARTICLE: COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER, with Extension to Previous Policy: Week 16: ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: MORE ORDERLY TIME, MONTH & WEEKDAY NAMES I begin this article with the previous concept, for comparison with the new recommendation or now moon reality, see below. NOW you might read the next paragraph, "POSSIBLE?" Then drop down to AN UPDATE, ANOTHER FACTOR and NOW ANOTHER CONSIDERATION, AN 8-DAY WEEK to proceed. POSSIBLE? Two months from now, on the 16th of the month, what day of the week will it be? How would you like to know the answer without having to check your phone, calendar, or appointment book, or recall some complex memorization device? What if time or days could be measured in a more orderly way? Might this increase our ability to organize activities better, and promote greater happiness? How would you like every month to actually begin on the Sunday in the upper left-most position on your monthly calendar? What if every month was 4 weeks long? Is it possible to maintain this year after year? Of course, we've become accustomed to a year that is 12 months long, nominally 3 months per season. And what if all this could be accomplished while restoring the moon, earth's timepiece, to line up with each month, beginning to end? For now let's continue, in keeping with the typical calendar, showing Sunday as the first day of the week, with Saturday as the seventh. At this point you could skip previous calculations and drop down to the paragraphs headed: AN UPDATE, ANOTHER FACTOR, then NOW ANOTHER CONSIDERATION, AN 8-DAY MONTH. IT IS POSSIBLE! The answers may indeed be a resounding YES! While previously reflecting on the former moon cycle of a precise 29.5 days per month, is it not clear that 4 weeks of 7 days could be followed by 1 extra day one month (29 days), and 2 extra days the next month (30 days), actually keeping the monthly calendar of 4 weeks each, matched with the moon cycle, with a new moon to start each month? While this did not work out to 365 1/4 days every year (as has been believed to be the length of the year, earth's circle around the sun), my calculations revealed the number to be more precisely 365 1/16, and that a 13th month could be inserted 3 times every 8 years or more 6 times every 16 years to allow a proper alignment between the moon cycles and the true year length, so that every month could match the moon. Under that arrangement, the average year length would continue to be 365 1/16, but some years would be 12 months, at 354 days, and other years being 13 months, would be either 384 or 383 days. Every 16 years the 383 would become 384 to add that 1/16 day per year, or 1 day every 16 years. And after 3 FULL months of 4 weeks each, this third month to end a season would have two additional weekend days to end the month. This may thus be at least a four-day weekend, possibly 6 days, if adding Friday and Monday as additional days off between seasons, a nice break to prepare for the seasonal change. We may be surprised what is possible with God’s blessing on this or a similar arrangement! What a fine time of reflection and activity each of these extended periods or breaks could be, the first two tending toward better weather! THE MOON--A GOD-GIVEN TIMEPIECE AN UPDATE, ANOTHER FACTOR. It is hoped that such a concept as revealed previously is considered refreshing and desirable for most if not all people. We are used to thinking simply of the movement of earth around the sun. Yet there is one thing that has been left out, something that God Himself fairly expected that we remember plays a significant role in Earth's activities, and has been also purposed as a useful timekeeper--that is the moon. While I've previously focused only on the typical length of each year, as most currently still do, is another way of counting our time beneficial to us as presented earlier, with respect to this amazing timepiece in the sky? Thinking about my previous format, were you aware that the cycle of the moon has been precisely 29.5 days long? How might we proceed? At this point you might again skip previous calculations to the paragraph headed: NOW ANOTHER CONSIDERATION, AN 8-DAY WEEK. THE NUMBERS. Let's run through the numbers on this moonlit timepiece. Consider first this time of 29.5 days. As it has been, this still could allow for the 28 days of 4 weeks, along with alternating one or two days more each month. This would allow for one additional day, like a Day of Rest/Calm or Holiday, at the beginning or end of the month, like the Scriptures speak of a "new moon" as just such a day. Now 12 months of this number 29.5 gives us 354 days. Based on the well-known number of 365 1/4 days in a year, this leaves 11 1/4 days per year. Clearly more is needed. As it turns out, 4 of these years gives us 45 days extra, thus 8 of these years, 90 days, it would seem very near 3 full months. If 8 years were intended to result in an additional 3 months precisely, the number would be, not 90 days, but 88.5, again based on 29.5 days of the moon's precise cycle. Astoundingly, if this is correct, then the assumed 365 1/4 days per year would actually be slightly off, by 1.5 days per 8 years, or 3 days per 16 years, or 3/16 days per year. Thus the correct number of days per year would actually be 365 1/4 minus 3/16, or 365 1/16 days per year, being 11 1/16 days beyond the 12 months of 354 days. In that case, it is not 90 days extra after 8 years, but again 88 1/2. UPDATED PATTERN. This would mean, then, (1) 29.5 day month (or actually alternating 29 and 30 days) after years 3, 5, and 8. To complete the true alternation, another 8 years would be needed, again after another 3, 5, and 8 years. For example, after year 3, an additional 30 day month, year 5, 29 day, after 8 years, 30 day, after 11 years, 29 day, after 13 years, 30 day, and finally after 16 years a 29 day month completes the entire cycle, but changing just this last one to a 30 day month adds the remaining 1/16 day to the year for maintaining the correct timing. THE 7-DAY WEEK. At this point it should be acknowledged that Seventh Day Adventists have for decades taught and claimed that Saturday is actually the seventh day of the week, just as most calendars still (fortunately) recognize, showing Sunday on the left as the official first day of the normal week. In respect of their steadfastness, I now reiterate viewing Sunday as the first day, Sunday through Saturday being the 1st through the 7th, and so on through each month. This still retains easy calculation to determine the day associated with any date, whether it be the first through the 30th. At issue with recognizing this new pattern of counting time, is the name and placement of the additional one or two days each month. To maintain this ease of calculation, it may be best, as might be expected, to consider this 29th and possibly 30th day of each month as added between the last day of the 28 day cycle (Saturday) and the Sunday start of the next month, possibly calling these one or two days something other than by normal day names, rather than merely one or two additional Saturday(s). Also, why not choose to start each year with the 30 day month, rather than the 29 day? NOW ANOTHER CONSIDERATION, AN 8-DAY WEEK. Up to this point I've explained the month's timing as it has essentially been intended until now. However, we are at an important time in our history, with a more intent establishment of the Kingdom of God, to bring things to greater perfection than has been previously possible. The moon's cycles may soon give evidence of lengthening from the 29.5 days, confirming God's will regarding the following: Could it be that just as the number 7, largely embraced for centuries as a divine number associated with godly things, is increasingly being known as lesser than the number 8, more reflective of the greater perfection of God's holy standards, that a new standard of eight days per week, having another day after Saturday, and an increased moon phase cycle, essentially 33 1/3 days per month, (with a technical footnote) still with twelve months, the year becoming some 400 days, maintaining the seasons to be around 100 days each rather than 90, is something God has considered and is capable of causing? Think about this: We've grown fairly accustomed to a typical 5-day/40-hour workweek. The Day 8 purpose is greater refreshment, with an extra weekend day, allowing for renewed examination of typical weekend activities, such as: (1) Seventh-Day Adventists were right--the seventh day has been Saturday, just as most wall calendars still indicate. Why not churches move to a Saturday (newly named Calmday, Psalmday) morning service, allowing the rest of the day and now three day weekend for other good activities? The new 8th day, which I've discussed naming along with other days to end this article, would make an occasional schedule adjustment possible. Every fourth month an alternating work schedule would make possible an incredible 7-day week ending stretch at month's end! A SEASONAL BREAK! (2) Recall that there are nominally three months per season. What if most months were typical Monday through Friday workdays, with the three weekend days off. Actually the final weekend of the month would have one additional day, a ninth, for a four-day weekend! This would allow for flexibility on any weekend as to how to spend those three or four days, perhaps often with the good start mentioned previously. Now, God has indicated His preference for an added day every four months, technically each month being closer to 33 1/4 days long. While this is not every three months, as previously expected, there are good reasons for this adjustment. It is more precisely the moon phase timing yearly, and there should be good chance of better weather associated with two of the three months. Therefore, all months but the three would be 33 days long, but for the months of April, August, and December, there would be at least one additional day at month's end (34 days, but 35 to end December). Accordingly, what about considering a special workweek arrangement just these months of the year, alternating the first day of the workweek between the new Sunday and Monday? The first week of the month could be Sunday off, and work Monday through Friday, as usual. Having a weekend two days off, the 7th and new 8th days, could allow for the following weekend to be five (5) days off, if working a short workweek of Sunday through Wednesday, the following five days off being Thursday through Sunday! Work would then begin again as Monday-Friday. Even more, after the next two-day weekend, then the following Sunday through Wednesday 4-day workweek could then allow for the weekend that would include this time TWO additional days at month's end, making possible in this one of three months per year, a 7-day stretch! Doing this in December would actually yield 5 days ending the week mid-month, and 8 days to fill the weekend, ending the month, as there is one more additional day ending December (35 days), marking the 400th day before Sonday/Sunday starts the new year. EFFECTS. This could make for a good break to prepare for the coming seasonal change, and for additional refreshment! Thus the weeklong break I previously recommended called "Humaneth" could still find it's place three times a year, even while maintaining the timing of the moon cycle from month to month, each first day being a new moon, with just each fourth month off slightly until corrected at month's end. Such a change could be on course to begin as soon as the beginning of this new year, and with 12 months of 4 weeks each, but with the additional days, it should not be too difficult for plans from the current calendar to be well-arranged into the new calendar, again considering the additional days for each month, with the main differences being 48 weeks rather than 52, and the extra weekend day throughout. Where this is an issue, perhaps one month of each seasonal set of three, either the first or second month, could have all it's (4) Sundays considered an additional 4-day "week" somehow, making 52 "weeks" total, or some other arrangement may be made. One other matter would be the addition, just like previously, of 1/16th day per year, or just 1 additional day every 16 years, which God must wish for us and Him to best track longer periods of time. That 1 year every 16 would then be 401 days long. OTHER MONTH NAMES. Then, while we’re looking at such significant changes, could we not reconsider even the names of our months? How beneficial are the meanings of the months as they are? What if they could be renamed in a way that would help our precious children gain values and understand more of what’s important in life, to be happier and more at peace with themselves and others? Let’s propose names that have meaning and provide some order to values contributing greatly to a wise and peaceful human family. Again, we can be careful to choose names that wouldn’t be confusing to words used ordinarily, so the names shouldn’t necessarily sound familiar: In a new world of God’s making, benefitting from the promised rule of His Kingdom, The first three months might be named accordingly: Now 33-33-33 days (1) Gemupsay (Jan-Gem) - The beginning of a new year often does and should bring good thoughts about what is to come, about improvements that may be made and good experiences to be had. The stir of a new year can also come from looking up and ahead despite anything discouraging from the past year or more. Regarding the past, we should aim to learn from it, to right wrongs, and correct things needing attention. This we should do though in our present and future, focusing on the road ahead, not endlessly gazing into the rear view mirror. To be successful, we should be in the habit of looking up, and speaking about God, or speaking to God in prayer (in this case, thinking up), overcoming discouragement by trusting God and being hopeful of improvements and good outcomes. Thus this month name starts with "Gem" which, like "Gen", can refer to beginnings, even good ones. The 'm' has a purpose, being used in cases of twos or two paths, reminding us to take the right or correct one in such cases. We want our future to always be bright and good, by seeking to do things the right way, blessed by God. In this month name, 'say' brings to mind speaking upright, godly thoughts so important to maintaining a good outlook, and good wise thinking. (2) Rightnes (Feb-Rtn) [Reserved possibility of switching month 2 and 3 names, as March may be associated with marching in war, and the aim to avoid or end such war should be a peaceful resolution, or Peasamake] Traditionally February the second month has been associated with purification, as ancestors took note of the dead of winter and wanted to prove themselves grateful and worthy for God to bring back the life of Spring just as in times past. Many long to be better able to handle situations throughout each day in a way that reflects wisdom and a genuine concern for associates at work or at school, for instance. Truly upright conduct Involves a genuine trust in God, and in the happiness found by seeking closeness to Him, listening to Him and His Son, with true faith, which actually enables sight to overcome obstacles, and really makes for a heart that loves the good that God loves and hates what He hates, such as harmful attitudes and practices. Such faith benefits mankind immeasurably. For instance, widespread peace and loving treatment of one another becomes much more achievable, with God's blessing. Under peaceful conditions, largely inspired by hope, and aided by truth, the practice of right conduct can blossom and flourish. This, of course, is God’s standard of righteousness we humbly seek, in harmony with divine wisdom. (James 3:18). Learning to be peaceable and respectful of God and others is important to discussing and finding agreement on the right standards of God's word. (3) Peasamake (Mar-Pes) - [Previously Rightnes, Reserved possibility of switching month 2 and 3 names, as February is known as a month of purification, associated with clear and right thinking, or Rightnes.] One of the most important values or pursuits highlighted by Christ or God's word is genuine peace. While history is littered with contentions causing division, God's word and the kingly rule of Christ has brought changes to modern thinking, to look more intently at resolving conflicts, seeking understanding of their cause(s), seeking God's forgiveness, protecting life, and finding reasonable solutions, with level heads making good use of diplomacy and scholarship. Made in God's image, all should have inclination toward making peace with others, wanting a truly peaceful world. Following the new pattern of moon cycles, there can be no divisions of the month as in the previously planned 13th month of Humaneth. Nevertheless, it is the moon that some water and weather cycles are based on, which may be affected to some extent by the earth's seasonal tilt. With 8-day weeks, and the additional day or two at the end of each month, we would thus maintain the perfect timing of new moons at the start of each month, and throughout each year of some 400 days. The next three months of Spring might then be named: ANOTHER adjustment has been made to the order of 4-6, returning Agreehelp (Agr.) to the fourth month (Apr.), with scriptural insight. James 3:17 says the wisdom from above is first of all pure (seeking God's way), THEN peaceable (as in agreehelp), reasonable ("yielding," as in humility), ready to obey. Humility is still a hallmark of truly learning right in peace-loving conditions strengthened in months 4 & 5: As regards right-learning, the next verse says "Moreover, the fruit of righteousness is sown in peaceful conditions for those who are making peace." Now 34-33-33 days (4) Shuay (Apr-Sha) Recall that a part of Jesus' most correct name from Hebrew, as in the name Joshua, the "shua", refers to "Salvation or Rescue". The beginnings of Spring experienced in this month may compare in some ways to God's Saving Power. This still may remind us that God's Son is "the way and the truth and the life." (John 14:6) The importance of acknowledging the way of God and His Son is shown to contribute greatly to the peaceful and truly fair world that God has purposed. [Previously Agreehelp, or Agreepage, Reserved possibility of switching names of Months 4 & 5, due to typical rains of the fourth month, which may fit well with this name, bringing fruitful seasons]. Formerly considering Shwa and variants. Jesus' Hebrew name ends with "Shuaz", but English is preferably Joshalz, the last syllable referring to Salvation or Rescue. He is "Lord to the glory of God the Father" and AzGod, thus the linking of Salvation to God in his name, including the "Jo" as in Joshalz, is to be the norm. Combining "Shua" with "way", as this one is appropriately called "the way and the truth and the life," we can end up with "Shway" or "Shuay," for a month that at least does cross over into the previous time of "May." As for "Shuay" however, there has been more interest, and includes "Shua" within the term. Recall that this ending of Jesus' most correct name from Hebrew refers to "Salvation or Rescue", the entire name meaning "Jehovalz is Salvation." Also Matthew's gospel contained the Hebrew name rather than the Greek name translated "Jesus", the plural of "Jesu", which was evidently chosen by Caesar and with a different meaning altogether, essentially "He makes wet." His most exact name then is translated to English from Hebrew as "Joshalz," the letters signifying the King or Lord AzGod commissioned to bring all things back to perfection, pronounced JOSH'ALZ. The fullness of Spring experienced in this month may compare in some ways to God's Saving Power. This still may remind us that God's Son is "the way and the truth and the life." (John 14:6) The importance of acknowledging the way of God and this Son is shown to contribute greatly to the peaceful and truly fair world that God has purposed. (5) Agreeluv (May-Agr) [Previously Shuay, Reserved possibility of switching names of Months 4 & 5, due to typical rains of the fourth month, which hampers Agricultural work]. While again an agricultural month, the name suggests a measure of peace, with encouragement to lovingly to be on the same page with one another, as the saying goes, and to respect others while coming to agreement on the right view of something, and the abbreviation fits well with agriculture, appropriate for this time of year. Other people and companies were involved in implementing some of my solutions, even before the election for President. Peace is to be a hallmark of God’s new world, so it continues here early on in development. This is a quality God expects us to strive to maintain with Him and fellow humans, never growing bitter and allowing hatred to fester toward others, but rather treating others with compassion and understanding wherever possible. (6) Trusee (Jun-Trs) Formerly Trubee. How important is realizing what is true and live an honest life! An important early value is learning to tell truth from falsehood. What a vital, life-saving ability! The truth itself can also be life-saving, but can also hurt when realizing a wrong has been committed, or one was about to suffer loss. Lies can cause greater harm and loss, while the truth can protect from such things. May we aim to gain and refine the wisdom to tell the difference, and refuse to carry on or promote harmful untruths. Loving sincerity and honesty is a very important start to the gaining of divine wisdom, revealed in His word, and that Joshuaz' or Jesus helped clarify. Peter once showed the importance of purity and truth leading to right thinking and development of genuine love. An unselfish loving motive is a start, but true godlove is a crowning accomplishment, such as Christ taught his apostles and others over several years. Peter spoke of this and made a connection between cleansing and truth, after acknowledging God's pure standards, by saying to Christian congregations at 1Peter 1:21, "Now that you have purified yourselves by your obedience to the truth with unhypocritical brotherly affection as the result, love one another intensely from the heart." Again no division of a 13th month, however, keep in mind that a 34 day third month of each season would have two days additional on the last weekend, making possible a five-day weekend without change, but rather, with the recommended workweek adjustment, a six- or seven-day weekend seasonally! The following three months of Summer might then be named: Now 33-34-33 days (7) Hula rather than Hulay (Jul-Hul), formerly Hummelnes (Hml.) While this was previously Hapnesy, it has been determined that deep-seated joy is a result of having God's spirit, while this ever-vital quality or attitude of HUMILITY is such an important matter to maintain. Also, this nation was born from humble leaders who, although in conflict, still desired to establish this nation with treaty and peaceful diplomacy, more than with bitter warfare. While God of course is "high," He treasures and blesses respectful humility and godly fear, which can lead to wisdom and success. While the "Hu" refers to such humility, the "lay", like the Hawaiian "lei" is associated with warmth, welcome, and appreciation. There is strength in properly motivated sincere respect and kindness. Jesus or Jo-shauz' associated humbly serving others' needs with greatness, not weakness. (Luke 9:48) In describing his warm personality, God's obedient Son mentioned a mild temper and lowly heart, leading to refreshment (Matthew 11:29). Humility greatly promotes peaceful dealings and relationships with others, and assists a right relationship with Je'hovoez' God himself. We should respect the knowledge and talents of others, which we likely are not fully aware of, and, as God's word recommends, "think of others as better than yourselves," thus respecting them. (Philippians 2:3, NIRV). This will assist consideration of the next month's virtue. (8) Lisnagod (Aug-Lsg) While other qualities originally held this spot, an emerging realization of the need to underscore as essential respecting God above became a high priority. In fact, the Scriptures point out that obedience to God is what's needed to bring about the purity that's considered a primary aspect and basis of divine wisdom (James 3:17). And such also contributes greatly to genuine peace. These qualities are vital to develop divine wisdom and happiness. This initially appeared one month later, but logically should be placed prior to the reminder to love the ways of God through His Son, and even our all-important faith begins with the hearing of God's word. (Romans 10:17). (9) Lifeway (Sep-Lfw) ,"God," understood to be the true God, Je'hovalz, combined with the unusual spelling "ferss" instead of "first" helps to avoid confusion with the first day of the month. God Himself reveals his power in the Scriptures, to protect those looking to Him as God, such as at Isaiah 12:2, which says "Look! God is my salvation. I will trust and feel no dread; For Joez Je'hovalz is my strength and my might, And he has become my salvation.” Putting God first is important in the development of a person, contributing to the quality of godly devotion, which involves a close attachment to God as a person. The very first of the Ten Commandments requires that we give God exclusive devotion, not worshiping anyone or anything else. This makes possible His blessing on us as individuals, and as a nation or people. This expression may also help us remain a strong but humble people before God and one another, promoting genuine peace and happiness. Godly devotion was recognized by many of those founding this country, as they sought to be free to worship God truly in accord with His word the Bible. It is God Himself who made possible the founding of this nation, in spite of the imperfections and weaknesses of men, and we do well to rightly give Him credit for such achievements. The concluding three months of Fall or Autumn might then be named: Now 33-33-34 days (10) Learngood (Oct-Lgd) (formerly Lernfulnes, Autisciplince) While correcting ourselves to avoid wrongdoing is important, we do need to keep our humility. The original name acknowledged that while we need to appreciate the appropriate efforts of others to offer correction where necessary, the development of self-discipline can do much to enhance one’s life. However, it has been considered in this regard that becoming a truly good listener may more naturally bring this quality about. However, sometimes the child or student has not learned how to listen, or does not yet have a foundation for understanding the topic at hand. Therefore, I am presenting a change to Learngood, that parents, teachers and others may give proper attention to helping children and students to develop proper learning skills, of course with the right motive that respects and honors both God and His Son. It was Jesus or Joshalz who said, at Luke 8:18, "Pay attention to HOW you listen." To become a good earner, a student needs first to become a good learner. This could still lead to more Blissfulness! (11) Seegood (Nov-Sgd), formerly Goodsee. After an early reminder to hope in God, we now may see much good from hard work and such faith as any remaining harvesting of crops takes place and we experience the fruitage of this work. This is a reminder of God’s blessing, and may cause appreciation and thankfulness to overflow within us. It was intended that the second syllable of Goodsee be drawn out, not clipped, so that the right idea is retained, for seeing good from our hard work and, at the same time, carrying the thought of truly seeing the good in things, looking for the good not so much the bad. The idea of Seegood arose from the concern with clipping the end of Goodsee, as if it were Goodsy or something. I actually think both could accomplish the same purpose, and Seegood would avoid that clipping issue. (12) Loyalnes (Dec-Loy), an early proposal. To round out the year, "loyal love" or "godlove" is a crowning goal and accomplishment, something all should strive for. The term loyalty has been chosen to best describe and remind us of the true "love" encouraged in God's word, at times translated "loyal love." The term "love" by itself is often applied in many different ways, which may contribute to confusion to the very young. This is the love spoken of in God's word that we are to have for God and fellow humans. As God has shown true loyal love to humans first, we are moved to reflect it to Him and others. Of God, Psalm 103:11 says: "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So great is his loyal love toward those revering him." And Proverbs 3:3 says "Do not let loyal love and faithfulness leave you. Tie them around your neck; Write them on the tablet of your heart." This loyal love should be shown to God first, then fellow humans, treating them in a beneficial way promoting their long-term happiness. This name thus carries such significance. "Loyal love" is the type of love highlighted throughout God's word that most closely identifies God Himself, in saying "God is love." (1John 4:8). Thus, when thinking of God, we might at times also think of this quality. Also, aspects of this quality appear in other month names, as described in 1Corinthians 13:4-8. For instance, love "hopes all things," it "rejoices with the truth," and it "does not rejoice over wrongdoing."Also, in saying "love is patient," the term can be associated with loyalty, as a loyal person can patiently put up with a disagreeable circumstance in a relationship, seeking God-approved ways to correct it, with blazing hope of a restored condition. That's loyal love! Most, if not all, of the values presented as month names find good order as qualities that make for fruitful activity and a positive contribution to society. With the new 8-day week, and the adjustment to 33 and 34 day months, there is no longer any need for a 13th month to keep the year and months in line with the moon's rotation. Every month would start with a new moon phase, weather cycles, despite environmental issues, should still become more stable, and a glance at the moon could really remind us of where we are in the month's progress. CONCLUSION: Isaiah 11:9 foretells the peace to prevail in life on the planet under God's Kingdom: "They will not cause any harm Or any ruin in all my holy mountain, Because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovalz As the waters cover the sea." And by remembering a few verses, God's name in both full and short forms, with His personality, could be more readily learned by the tenderly young: Psalm 89:8 ( 3Psalm 17:8 ), which says "O Jehovoez God of armies, Who is mighty like you, O Joez? Your faithfulness surrounds you" and Psalm 106:1 ( 4Psalm 17:1 ) "Praise Joez! Give thanks to Jehovalz, for he is good; His love endures forever." Also let's add Psalm 150:1 ( 5Psalm 44:1 ) which helps make a significant connection, exhorting: "Praise Joez! Praise God in His holy place. Praise him in the heavens declaring his strength." GOD’S INSTRUCTION. It is strongly believed that if this arrangement of names is used, the children learning them will be more inclined toward genuine peace and happiness! Of course, this would still be with loving parental guidance and instruction. How much better to have month names with such meaning as it relates to the acquisition of divine wisdom and happiness! Of course, it is Jeho'valz God Himself who offers us instruction to develop heart appreciation for such qualities. May we not take them for granted, and encourage others to grow in their love for God and others. And may we perhaps enjoy the passing of time even more, as it proves to take place in a more orderly way. Of course, plans have been made based on current calendars, so the recommendation is for being easily able to correlate between the two, whichever is chosen as most prominent. Updating our plan, we might consider how close the new moon has been to the beginning of our recent years or the current one, and now be AMAZED at what God has done to grant us a new start to experiencing a perfectly timed moon with a NEW monthly calendar. For plans further out, charts and apps can be made to easily convert to the new format. May we continue looking forward to the blessings of God’s Kingdom, and the happier lives we can live at that time with His blessing upon His people—all those cooperating with His will earth-wide! With beneficial calendar and month name changes, why not reconsider our day names? DAY NAMES, let's start with the first day of the week, with God's favor on a two-week rotation of names contributing to good order and practicality. Let's look at both the first week dayname, then the second week dayname, one weekday at a time, beginning with Sunday. Sonday, then Righzday . To replace Sunday, For the first day of the month, Sonday, then the following week Righzday (Son/Riz). Regarding 'Sonday', the pronunciation brings clarity when differentiating from the 7-Day. Recall that God refers to his Son's kingship making possible a new day, as a "sun of righteousness". In the two week rotation, this is a day off from normal work, and concludes a logical four- or five-day weekend, rotating with a two-day weekend the other weeks. Sonday also concludes a three-day period that brings a strengthening to the body when understood and heeded, that serves to lessen or diminish disease and untimely death, with the time off work being practical for this benefit, and Sonday referring to the effect of time spent at a beach or in a sauna, and quite safe with the God-blessed GOOD salt intake from a previous day, found in iodized/Pink Himalayan salt and in many teas or tea blends and foods/sauces, etc. More of this will be explained at the end with the other weekend days detailed. Along the same lines, Righzday has reference to right, doing right, associated with the light of truth, and Christ's face once shone "as the sun" before his closest followers, helping confirm that description. Also of note, making rye bread, which really refers to rizing without adding yeast, like croissants, as normally could only be done on this one day weekly and was a lengthy affair, and would deter notions of traveling even to church services on this day. The past idea of a superior eighth day Christian "sabbath" likely led to the two-day weekend, and also perhaps to many church services being held on this day rather than the Seventh day. However, it is being understood that Christians should still recognize the Seventh day as the day God designated especially for rest and church attendance, as Seventh-Day Adventists have advocated for quite some time. Also, with Sonday, the first day of the two-week rotation continuing off work for many, business owners and others could still wisely use some of this time for considering their upcoming week's work/activity. Moonday then Mindday (Mun./Mnd.), It is considered best to have new names for the two-week rotation to avoid confusion with the other calendar. Moonday for the first and third weeks of each month. Mindday the second and fourth weeks could remind us of keeping our minds sharp, and in good practice. Being pronounced quickly may also remind us to use this day, once every two weeks, to have some do work safely removing landmines from affected areas, asking if this sort of thing was making good use of our minds, to threaten each other’s ability to walk, etc.? The first week Moonday has reference to the moon, which was intended for multiple purposes, including as a heavenly timepiece, and God has intervened in our day to line up the moon with the 8-Day Calendar. What a joy to consider the moon once again having the beautiful role God intended it to have! This second day of the week can be recognized for it's significance as providing reflection of the sun's rays, for instance, in the distribution of refreshingly honest enlightenment, despite past times of darkness. Music that is also refreshingly honest and supportive of God's purpose might be intertwined with the day's activities, and under God's Kingdom could increasingly appeal to lovers of peace and righteousness. Tu'sday/Tuseday, then now Truceday/Tru'seday (Tus./Tru.) now for the first week of rotation, then Truceday/Tru'seday for the second week. Twosomes, Outings or Activities for two or more...Clearly, God's institution of marriage reminds us that we need to be with and cooperate with others to be happiest and most successful. Couldn't it be clear that these next two day-names (Tue & Wed) are just other ways of saying what should have been the obvious, but to many not fully appreciated, that is family or like-family closeness and weddings? Honestly, not everyone had made these connections, at least in more than a light-hearted way...An important acknowledgement is that this is, not the 2nd day of the week (starting Sunday/Sonday) but the 3rd, as God has purposed 3's more than 2's, as His love for and blessing on two even working on something together, looking to God, is what can make them successful--and not necessarily in competition with others, but as for meeting an excellent standard of quality, as all should strive for. Working purposefully along with another, as a pair, or more as a team, contributes to good listening skills, learning to cooperate, more enjoyment when blessed by God and greater success. While the US is found in the first Tus'day/Tuseday, the new second-week Truceday/Tru'seday brings to mind the ending of wars, many wars actually ending on this day of the week, and underscoring everyone's place in God's purpose, aiming to live peaceably with others before God. This is an important U.S. role in God's purpose, related to administering blessings of God's Kingdom earthwide, should we choose to remain compliant ourselves before Him and His Son, the Lord Jehoshalz/AzGod. As for the next day I explain below how I believe it came to be spelled so. Wedinsday and Windzday (Wdn./Wed.). Wednesday. As long as we can keep the connection in mind and heart, it Wedinsday? Can it not be a day for acknowledging the God's gift of marriage for earthers (landons) and the one each may have been blessed with? It is a legitimate question as to whether marriage ceremonies would best be in the middle of the week, with those able to relieve themselves of their job for the time necessary, somewhat limiting the number of attendees. Rather than affecting weekend plans that some may already have, this could work quite well, but ones may have to be choosy, as they likely may not be able to attend every Wedinsday Wedding that they would like to--employees could use their vacation days, possibly offering one or two more per year. I now appreciate that wednes was formerly an adjective describing someone in a married state, and Wednesday the day of the week celebrating or bringing to mind God's gift of marriage. What of Windzday? There are days that God intended more breezy than others. Of course, having God's spirit with us or at our backs, using knowledge aright, rather than other tricks, etc., makes possible real winning, and win-wins, for God-blessed mutual benefit. This promotes greater peace, rather than unnecessary contention or war. But in another way, Strong winds in the spring and fall for instance, or any season on this day can bring down unsteady trees before they later come down without any warning. Heavenzday/He'nzday and Thunderzday (Hvn./Thz.). There may be no need to shorten "Thunderzday" to "Thundzday". Heavenzday of course reminds us of the Universe of the 'Alpha and the Omega', the A and the Z, the Lord AzGod. This universe includes 'stars' (and associated planetary homes), including ones as those that 'shouted in applause' upon the completion of Earth and it's atmosphere, or 'lower heaven'. This is actually recorded in Job 38:7, and refers also to a Heavenly governmental system blessed by God that was decades ago already set up and continues to beneficially manage Earth's affairs, despite attempts to interfere or overtake it. Thunder has intrigued mankind throughout generations, with the appropriate desire for looking to the One above, God, our Shaper, "by whom we walk, move, and exist" (Acts 17), as possessing all the power needed, wishing to do so cooperatively, to accomplish His loving purpose toward mankind. Therefore, what may remind us of Jehovalz'z wonderful and tremendous power, including that of His powerful holy spirit, which He used and uses to accomplish all His will, including control of weather forces and the formation of incredible stars throughout the Universe? How moving is the sound of mighty thunder? How about the fourth day of the week be called, alternately Heavenzday and Thunderzday? Recall that Saturday is three syllables also. We may be reminded of God's power and rulership reflective of His love for all. Starzday and Pleadzday (Str/Pld) day known as Friday. Not every sixth day of the week need be a major movie release day--why not alternate, and consider a plead to God on the previous Pleadzday for His blessing on the first and third week's Starzday to be something that truly refreshes people and uplifts them in some way to continue courageously standing for God's fair and true ways in life? Then on Pleadzday some other activities might be enjoyed, perhaps with family or friends, or catching that truly good movie you heard about now the second week. This day can begin a four- or five-day weekend by keeping the previous weekend to two days, and rizing to work on Righzday through Thunderzday, five days. Also, court pleas or pleads may normally be entered on this day. Having this day off, also helps these cases to be free of inteference from last-minute work requests or perhaps illegal demands, as does also moving paydays week two to the following Salvtuday. The first week Starzday, is still normally a workday, but with a view to a possible evening under the stars on the big screen, or in concert, etc. which God-blessed may be more successful, finding something available at the time that truly encourages us or enlightens us in some way from afar. Movie makers sometimes have God's spirit on their work, but may occasionally choose a scene to be included that didn't have it. Editors who review the film the week before release having prayers with them can identify the scene(s) that have more appropriate takes most fitting for a timeless movie experience, blessed by God! Psalmday, then Salvtuday (Psd/Sal) known as Saturday. It is recommended that this, which has been recognized on our calendars as the 7th day of the week, not the 6th, become the day that churches offer early and later services to the public, and in many cases possibly teaching classes in-between, as many people may prefer that additional class instruction be added to one day's experience rather than an additional day, although there could still also be congregation-wide instruction available on additional days. The would permit the remainder of the day and 8th day/weekend to be available for other good activities. Psalmday reminds us of the benefical Psalms, or Godly Poetic Songs that cover many situations in life, as well as a Rest or Calmday, but with the Softness of 'S'. Also the life-sustaining Palms, ocean trees and perhaps the ocean breeze, thought of for relaxation, welcome and celebration, as in the use of palm fronds or leaves with Messiah's entrance into Jerusalem on a colt. Salvtuday reminds of salt as a preservative, it's historical use as salary, and the vitality it promotes in good form, especially when God blesses it's intake as on this day. Good salts to receive on this special day of the two-week rotation can include iodized/Pink Himalayan salt mix 50:50 with dried cilantro added, many teas like Chamomile or tea blends, and foods/sauces also. Of course, just as and more important are dear relationships that should also be preserved, which God helps with, and Solving or Resolving any differences by addressing one another and any problems contributing to the difficulty is what we want to do as we are able, or getting help as needed. Having this Dayname can bring to mind ideas to help preserve and strengthen our dealings with loved ones, and to make time for doing so. There is a concern that the name should be Solvtuday to underscore the importance of this aspect of the Day's meaning, but having TV shows or movies that involve these types of themes, solving or resolving such issues with loyal love, knowledge of the satisfying answers that are truly found inside (and not outside) God's true and undistorted lawl (sometimes misunderstood or misapplied), and done so successfully, would certainly be a beneficial project or practice. Fawnday, then Fanday , (Fun./Fan.) now possibly the new 8th day of the week. Fawnday (previously Funday, but now with 'w' double the fun), following Psalmday may include visits to nearby parks or possible park-like settings where deer and fawns are increasingly being sited on this day, or some other amusements of various sorts. The week-later Fanday, which would follow Starzday and Calmday, while it only occasionally might include showing appreciation, etc. as regards some stars made so by God, from movies, tv shows, etc. from the recent week, knowing the seriousness with which they take such responsibility before the public, with the good work of actors, singers, and the like, Fanday might also involve sharing with larger groups for Sports outings or other venues. While some sports like golf or bowling may be deemed more appropriate for Psalmday and Salvtuday, sports venues in general could be preferred on this eighth day of the week, as also the four-day weekend Pleadzday, Fanday and Sonday, most appropriate as delightful occasions after a week of possibly challenging work assignment(s). Now these last three days of the four-day weekend have a purpose. Taking in salt warms the body somewhat the following day, hence "Fanday". Sports stadiums etc. may do some work making possible some slight comfortable air movement on this particular day. Then the following Sonday brings a cleanzing to the body, but which can be kept to a minimum with use of a comparatively short time in a Sauna, or some time at the beach on a good day. Additionally, each month ends with a Lunaday, an extra day indicating month's end and a new or blank moon, like a blank slate for the coming month. Isaiah 40:21-31: "Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told to you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? 22 There is One who dwells above the circle (or, globe) of the earth, And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers. He is stretching out the heavens like a fine gauze, And he spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. 23 He reduces high officials to nothing And makes the judges of the earth an unreality. 24 They are hardly planted, They are hardly sown, Their stem has hardly taken root in the earth, And they are blown on and dry up, And the wind carries them away like stubble. 25 “To whom can you liken me to make me his equal?” says the Holy One. 26 “Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who brings out their army by number; He calls them all by name. Because of his vast dynamic energy and his awe-inspiring power, Not one of them is missing. 27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and why do you declare, O Israel, ‘My way is hidden from Jehovalz, And I receive no justice from God’? 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Jehovalz, the Creator of the ends of the earth, is a God for all eternity. He never tires out or grows weary. His understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the tired one And full might to those lacking strength. 30 Boys will tire out and grow weary, And young men will stumble and fall, 31 But those hoping in Jehovalz will regain power. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary; They will walk and not tire out.” ______CTC[2] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER SUBJECT: HORSES ! EVER RODE ? Have you ever rode a horse? A marvelous creature, so well-designed by God to be a perfectly effective agent for transporting people and goods from one place to another! Through much of our history, whether by carriage, by saddle, or bare-backed, many people have found great pleasure in moving by way of horses—with many memorable conversations taking place. So, what do you imagine these people will want to do not long after they return to life in the resurrection? How might we not only accommodate them, but perhaps even improve our own lifestyle while allowing for sustainable motor vehicles to also exist? LIMITATIONS OF THE PAST . Many people today believe that horse travel and motor vehicles could never coincide together in our modern society, but recall that over a century ago, it was the other way around--horse travel was the norm, and motor vehicles were just beginning to appear. While some problems existed between the two modes of travel back then, these were greatly caused by mainly two things--what seemed to be an arbitrary or inconsequential choice regarding which side of the road motor vehicles would drive on, as well as the limitations of motor vehicle technology that need no longer hinder people from cooperating together to allow for a peaceable merging of times past and present, although with some REASONABLE adjustments. PERFECT SURFACE ? One other major issue that now arises is roadway surfaces. God is aware of the inherent problems with the choice of asphalt for roadways. This is not the long-term solution that can continue into an eternal future on the planet! Also, horses can tragically slip and fall on typical asphalt roadways, and thus must travel much more slowly than they are otherwise capable of traveling! Resurfacing, however, can correct this! While the asphalt surface may be stable enough to serve as a base, preferably the proper (emphasize PROPER) mixture of cement, consisting largely of plentiful sand, is the perfect solution for roadways that can exist forever on planet Earth, with very little maintenance! Not only is it a stable surface, but horse hooves are designed for travel on this surface, allowing for their achieving nearly their maximum horse speed! On this surface, a typical horse can travel the safe 50-55mph (with a recommended 56 mph speed limit) that most current vehicles on the road can safely travel, to minimize or eliminate deadly accident outcomes. However, stallions can travel 80mph, which newer cars that properly increase distance between the engine compartment and the steering wheel, may likewise some day be allowed to also travel much more safely. It has recently been determined, however, that until the superiority of properly mixed cement as a road surface is appreciated, asphalt that has sand added to mixture reaching 1/4 the weight, will also function perfectly, and like the properly mixed cement, will not normally break up either! The cement however, mostly of plentiful sand that by God's design naturally replenishes to most beaches, is much better suited eventually for the repaving of roadways, just no more than one inch depth on all existing paved road surfaces is all that's necessary! A CLEAR PATH . In view of this, a clear aim comes into view. Many roadways made before interstate highways existed are almost entirely of speed limits at or below 45 MPH, which is approximately the average full speed horses can travel under those road conditions. So why not start there, leaving interstates alone, gradually covering the asphalt base with the cement. No doubt we can find the most efficient method possible for this, and it just may be that night-time work for this may be great for the primary work, while we must be patient for it to set for a reasonable period of time. Details for how this will benefit not only people in the future desiring horse travel, but also allow for an improved condition for much safer travel in ice and snow, will be included in a continued addition. A SURPRISE RESOURCE ? Some time ago in reflecting upon the Horse issue, I wondered about, and was helped to see an answer to another aspect of this issue. Could the manure of horses have a surprising usefulness? As research should prove, there is power in the grass that all horses should be consuming. And it is possible with godly direction to make use of this resource, when a horse may occasionally unload on a road surface. It has been determined that one dump of manure can take an average vehicle another 100 miles down the road on the energy supplied by the manure! By vehicle manufacturers working together under God's kingdom, they may receive or be permitted to work on the technology for this, so that a person desiring to make use of this free resource available on a roadway, when it is safe to do so, may shovel it up and deposit it in the proper place in his vehicle, and continue on without the need for refueling as soon as s/he may have needed to do previously. WITH DUE CAUTION, MUCH SAFER TRAVELS FOR A NEW BEGINNING ! With the arrival of God's Kingdom by Christ, there must be an answer to the accidents that can occur, under normal conditions as well as during wintry conditions! Some months ago this matter was considered, and it was determined that there is indeed a substance which vehicle tires can be made from, that makes it possible to grip the entire surface of ice or snow--evidently performing adequately on asphalt but as much as 10 times better on cement surfaces, including most bridges and overpasses! The substance is found primarily in Africa (My apologies that some intruder interfered with my initially revealing the correct locale of this natural resource.) Nevertheless, many are aware how the peoples of this land have suffered economically for so long a time. May it become a sustaining resource for many in those lands, while we somehow address the urgency of obtaining it for the U.S. and the world. STEPS TOWARD CAUTIOUS AND TRULY SAFE ROAD TRAVEL UNDER GOD'S KINGDOM While indications are that the Arabica bean harvesting season is not yet upon us, perhaps not for a few months, there was originally an urgent call for any wishing to protect lives to research this matter and find legal ways to safely plant this substance, in cooperation with African communities, so that everyone may have access to these tires as soon as that next season's winter travel may begin in an area. What this now means is that this winter season will be a time of exceptional attention to safety using current treads. New safety measures will be implemented accordingly, while Jehovalz God blesses all of our efforts to make it the safest winter travel season on record in the U.S. and the world, even more so with cooperation from existing authorities under the current president. ______CTC[3] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER ISSUE BY ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD'S KINGDOM: Zeroing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents Isaiah 25:8a "He will swallow up death forever, And the Sovereign Lord Jehovalz will wipe away the tears from all faces." Isaiah 11:9 "They will not cause any harm Or any ruin in all my holy mountain, Because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovalz As the waters cover the sea." BLESSINGS FROM GOD . Surely, the blessings promised under God's Kingdom are wondrous and numerous. But without the proper mindset concerning the timing of God's Kingdom, we may never be able to rid ourselves of reckless behavior, disease, and death. Jehovalz, through His beloved Son and chosen kingly representative, is to oversee God's promised rewards, as policies issuing from this source, the true source having God's blessing, will be able to accomplish God's will. God's will is that people be saved from any life-threatening disaster, particularly saved from adverse judgement, by supporting His Kingdom's laws and instructions based on God's word, including of course governmental laws also blessed by God. 1Timothy 2:3-4 spell out God's will for humans in these words: "This is fine and acceptable in the sight of our Savior, God, 4 whose will is that people everywhere should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth." Do we not want to see an END to sickness, to aging physically beyond the proper age of a truly healthy life, and to the death that God promises to "swallow up"? He's promised a resurrection of our dear loved ones, to welcome them back even to a cleansed earth, blessed by God. (Acts 24:15). It is God's government alone that can bring this about--let's welcome this change directed by God through His Son, having faith in the ransom provision of this one's sacrifice, a thankful trust in this one for everlasting life! PRACTICAL STEPS . One vital change along these lines we must give attention to is the matter of careful driving, looking out for the lives of others and our own while behind the wheel. While it's important to think along the lines of having God's blessing on our activities, we must also take practical steps to help ensure we can live God's way and care for the lives of one another. One very important aspect of this policy is in PLANNING TIME for making good, safe, careful decisions when the lives of others may be at risk. Such situations may be quite often when operating a motor vehicle. Pedestrians may be at every corner for some drivers, so it's paramount to manage your time wisely if you want to be somewhere on time. While you should thus always plan time, even an extra 5 minutes for those several-second hesitations to ensure safety, there should also be allowances, even if there are penalties, for arriving late to a destination, if it was in the interests of not risking lives. How much would it matter if someone was seriously wounded or even killed in the process of getting somewhere "on time"? The wisest course all the way around is to take a short time to carefully ascertain (can use smartphone mapping apps) how long it really should take to get somewhere, then add a just 5 minutes at least for completely safe driving, any distance, plus another 5 minutes per hour as a minimum, for unexpected stops like buses and trains, and even being somewhere a few minutes before last second, so as not to feel rushed and to be considerate of the time of others that you may be meeting with. FURTHER . Along the same lines of practical assistance, there are many mishaps taking place due to lack of awareness of vehicle/travel integrity. While inspection methods vary state to state, often yearly inspections are mandatory. However, there are some things on vehicles that can seriously go awry well inside a year's time. A recommendation to require smaller but vital checks at every oil change, usually every 3-6 months, could be another tremendous step forward in reducing roadway accidents. Many oil-change shops are currently doing at least a few safety checks already! It may be that a 14-point check could solve this issue, with most inspection stations I believe able to agree on TEN checks that would suitably apply to nearly every vehicle, with another more specific FOUR checks tailored to the type, make or model. I'm proposing work begin in earnest on determining these 10, and specific fours, with careful consideration as to whether these numbers are appropriate or could be further improved. Also, recommendations for a few simple things drivers may check more often at home or on the level surface of a gas station might also help to lessen travel issues. OVERLY TIRED, ETC . Another area needing attention is avoiding driving while overly tired, or under the influence of excess alcohol and other substances. You should find, or have help to find, certain things that can make a real difference in how you are feeling if it is a matter such as tiredness. There may be many things that can perk you up, perhaps just a cup, to keep you perky for your trip. I just discovered, and am confirming the right of beverage makers and ingredient producers, to turn the typical inorganic caffeine often added to their drinks, into the most effective ORGANIC form, by introducing either baking soda or paprika spice (most natural) to the caffeine source for the conversion (equal parts/same amount)--THIS must be done during the processing state or stage, not just added to the drink afterward. Aim to always have such things on hand if this has become a real issue currently. If you need to pull over somewhere for a brief nap when you have no other alternative, this should be permitted in the interests of safety for all! Also, as mentioned in my separate drunk driving policy, there have been found certain alcoholic beverages made from bad yeast/fungal strains that have caused people to do things such as drive without any consideration to consequences. Sometimes the extent of this effect is far more than normal alcoholic influence. This needs to be corrected swiftly--reports of such incidents should be carefully investigated to ascertain the real cause, considering the past behavior of the person in these matters as well. Beverage makers should not be quick to dismiss complaints about such things, especially if this is a recurring issue. CROSSWALKS, SCOOT SPEED . Also, crosswalk lights should be reviewed, especially where there have been incidents occurring. I would make a recommendation that another crosslight symbol be included--that of a SCOOT speed crossing. While the normal WALK speed should be maintained, there are instances where only a faster paced jog or scoot across the street would make possible a crossing when the walk timing would not work. In some instances, showing the number of seconds remaining is very helpful, but see if the double to triple the walking speed as SCOOT might not also be possible. Then, check everything in the crosswalk patterns, because there have been times when a pedestrian believes it is safe to cross, but cars are still able to move into their path. There needs to be some laws clarification, crosslight changes, signage or other interventions to prevent misunderstandings about cars cautiously/safely being permitted, after completely stopping and looking for pedestrians, to carefully turn right on red, and so forth, with pedestrians crossing the street safely! Laws clarification should include fairer laws about when crossing streets apart from crosswalks is acceptable--with clearing both ways behind foreseeable traffic at lights, for instance. One more thing--let's make sure we can see our pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists, with adequate reflectors and fluorescent or neon colors of some sort--please beware of wearing dark colors at night! There are life jackets for boats, etc.--why not similarly designated jackets and/or hats with fluorescents, etc. for night-time walking along roads, streets, etc.? One more critical pedestrian issue: EARPIECE/HEADPHONES - If you really wish to listen to music or something while WALKING and CROSSING STREETS, etc., OPT FOR THE SINGLE EARPIECE, which allows ONE EAR TO BE OPEN for surrounding noise, attempts to speak to you, etc., AND KEEP VOLUME LEVEL TO HALF NORMAL--STILL SUITABLE!!! Keeping these simple precautions can help greatly, limiting the SIGNIFICANT NUMBER of traffic deaths that have been of PEDESTRIANS. HIGHWAY SPEEDS . This policy cannot be complete without explaining the need for the right speed. Do we really want high speed crashes to result in tragic deaths of our dear friends, loved ones, or neighbors? It seems we rarely hear the numbers, but what if you found that in 2020 traffic fatalities topped 35,000, including pedestrians and bikers? These are not just injuries, but actual deaths from accidents. Even when the numbers drop, it's hard to think of it per month. So many of our cars and other vehicles on the road currently were not designed for the speeds we would like to be able to drive on the highway, unless there is so little traffic perhaps in some far out areas. It is the speed that has been causing crashes to result in pinning people in, behind the steering wheel, protruding further than it should. There needs to be greater distance, at least another 12 inches, between the engine compartment and the driver, to allow a crash, with current safety measures such as belts and airbags, to prevent loss of life at the greater speeds we've wanted to go. With proper measures taken, we could actually increase some lanes to 77 mph! But with current vehicles, there has been abundant proof that traffic crash deaths can only be eliminated with current vehicle design by using the limit of 55/56 mph. We could easily let the limit be according to the level of 56 as 56.00, meaning we should travel below the limit, as 53 mph. Perhaps cruising at 53.5 may work with newer car cruising ability that could respond to hills, etc. quickly enough to maintain speeds between 52 and 55. We are then able to drive in good conscience in that range without any violation of the limit. I recommend that the law(l) be made to allow an occasional rise to about 59 in order to safely pass a vehicle that has sped up to 55 beside, and drop back to the normal range quickly as it becomes appropriate. ARRIVING SAFELY . Still, I believe there may be circumstances where one could allow passing up to 59 mph for usually no more than about 10-20 seconds, to avoid unsafely travelling right behind or beside another car when it can be avoided. The lawful procedure should be recognized, however, to avoid traveling such a speed excessively. That speed should only be to remedy an unsafe situation where necessary. If it has been shown or demonstrated that some current vehicle models are not needing additional space between the engine compartment and the driver, it may be that some lanes such as HOV lanes could be repurposed to permit higher limits than 55. For life to be considered precious to/for all of us, why not let the media tell us the statistics, as they are compiled, perhaps month to month, seeing traffic deaths drop to much less, that we may have reassurance in our determination to eliminate all traffic deaths that should not be occurring as they have been, willing to plan ahead a little to keep the 56 limit. As we hear the numbers drop, and grow in faith in having the right laws in place, and stop senseless losses of life, we can be encouraged to allow that extra time to arrive at our destinations safely and in good conscience, rejoicing in our travels for family, friends, coworkers, fellow drivers, bikers, and pedestrians, to love and live safely, surviving any occasional mishap, in the peaceful new world of God's making! ON SPEED AGAIN . Another crucial aspect of the issue of traveling speed arises on two-way roads already with limits around 55 mph. Accidents occurring with traffic oncoming can seriously amplify the risk of tragedy to all those involved, for much the same reasons as described earlier. On larger highways the speed reduction will allow for fewer accidents causing spinouts and multiple vehicle collisions. On other roadways, the full limit of 46.00 is highly preferable with a clear road ahead, and with typically no need to further reduce speed as oncoming traffic is in view or nearing you. Also, if you're sure that a vehicle in front of you has a non-working brake light, why not agreeing on a safe way to alert the driver, so that it may be resolved as soon as possible--a way that no one would take offense to. It may be that a brief switch to hazard lights can fairly serve as an alternative until brake lights are repaired. By implementing these changes, thousands of lives per year will be saved. Once again, by receiving reports of dropping numbers of traffic collisions and especially deaths, might not all be encouraged to allow that extra time for safe and happy travels, perhaps making increased use of travel time for good conversations and/or careful sources of listening enjoyment or instruction? With proper care, safe travel times need not hamper our lifestyle, but rather spare ourselves and others needless grief and sorrow. GOD'S PROMISE ! May we once again reflect on God's promise of Revelation 21, where God promises that He will figuratively pitch tent with mankind, and He will wipe out every tear from our eyes, and death will be no more, neither mourning in grief, outcry, nor pain be anymore. These things WILL pass away. Then God guarantees that He is making all things new, and that these words are faithful and true. (Revelation 21:3-5). God desires that we all rejoice in whatever measures He knows we need to take for Him to make true all His promises, including His desire to "swallow up death forever...and wipe the tears from all faces!" (Isaiah 25:8). The time is upon us, to recognize where we are in the stream of time, and stop missing out on what God is bringing about. Let's not kick the can down the road much longer, but rather acknowledge God's Kingdom in the ways that we now should, so as to experience the promised blessings just as God now wishes that we do! His mighty holy spirit can certainly help one and all to make needed changes in their lives, to bring them in full harmony with God's loving will for mankind, in agreement with His word, bound up in the Christ. _____CTC[4] Come to Consensus Corner A Former Policy Question Responses Page, (More current issues to come) iSideWith.com SOCIAL ISSUES : Gender Identity : Should "gender identity" be added to anti-discrimination laws? [M Camelangemy (Joshua JMA Campbell-Elanemy) AKA Mark A Campbell of Winchester, VA] Having greater understanding of the very real feelings of most if not all sincerely questioning their own gender, there is no place for discrimination of such ones. As mentioned in my comments on similar issues, some chemical pollutants have been known to cause changes in the hormones and feelings of some, unnaturally. They can and should find available resources for addressing their concerns in practical ways. In the meantime, they should be protected in reasonable ways from hurtful discrimination, but they themselves should also be careful not to push their conscience on others, becoming bullies themselves. With this understanding, I believe these laws updated, with wide attention and acceptance of the changes, along with education as described previously, should serve to help protect them from unnecessary grief in their circumstances. LGBT Adoption Rights: Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? Gay Marriage : Do you support the legalization of gay marriage? [M Camelangemy (Joshua JMA Campbell-Elanemy) AKA Mark A Campbell of Winchester, VA] The feelings among most gay couples are very real. However, many also recognize that these aren't the feelings God really intended that they have for one another, as Jesus acknowledged the first marriage was between a man and a woman, and this is the most natural of relationships. (Matthew 19:3-6). Humans are physiological creatures, and there have been chemicals in skin products, and received in other ways, such as ingested pesticides and/or herbicides from farmed foods, such as U.S. corn. Atrazine, having been used on some 90% of U.S. corn crops, has been known to turn male frogs female. What effects has this had on humans, many of whom have loved corn chips and other products with this pest/herbicide for decades? Some unnatural feelings have begun to subside in some who have turned to organic corn chips, etc. without the pest/herbicide contamination. For this and other reasons, I do not believe it best to subject a child to unnatural expressions of feelings that could cause unnecessary confusion in his/her own relationships during the formative years of growth. I rather recommend other reasonable measures among gay couples, including more support from the other gender, to work through their feelings over time with practical steps and God's blessing. Transgender solutions are not off the table in some circumstances. EDUCATION ISSUES : Critical Race Theory in K-12 Education : Should Critical Race Theory be taught in K-12 Education? [M Camelangemy (Joshua JMA Campbell-Elanemy) AKA Mark A Campbell of Winchester, VA] Once again I believe we can come together on God's view of such things. God himself, in accord with His word, is impartial in His dealings with mankind. Acts 17 clarifies that all humans on Earth originated from one pair of humans, and science has substantiated this understanding in numerous ways. In line with Martin Luther King Jr's dream, it is the character of a person, his or her ways, actions and treatment of others, that should determine how they are judged, more than the color of their skin, their economic status, or something else. Individuals choosing to imitate the impartiality of God can together make substantial changes in the practices of a culture, a community, state, nation, and world. At Acts 10:34-35, it is recorded regarding Jesus' apostle Peter: "At this Peter began to speak, and he said: “Now I truly understand that God is not partial, 35 but in every nation the man who fears (or, reveres) him and does what is right is acceptable to him." And the chosen apostle John likewise states that "God is love." God's example of love for all, as shown through His son Jesus, can move the entire world to overcome prejudice and racism that has stifled many in unacceptable ways in times past. I recommend a new program, Human Race Policy, to combine the appropriate truthful history taught in CRT, with inspiring truths underscored in God's word but also found to prove beneficial in real dealings among various ethnicities, to promote the peace that those respecting God's word have found effective in their own lives and dealings. Student loans : Do you support increasing taxes for the rich in order to reduce interest rates for student loans? [M Camelangemy (Joshua JMA Campbell-Elanemy) AKA Mark A Campbell of Winchester, VA] There should be a balanced approach to this issue that can be considered reasonable for all. Rather than penalizing the wealthy in this instance, I believe some commonsense measures can assist those under the burden of student loan debt. For one thing, I believe this is one debt that has been on some levels, and should be, treated differently from other loans. I believe there should be permitted a few, perhaps three, occasions when the payments could be postponed for a period of 3 months at a time, and/or one time per calendar year. When between jobs or in other similar circumstances, there might reasonably be some time to gather oneself and sources of income, without negative effects on credit reporting. Also, the interest rate should not increase on a student loan, even if some have found difficulty in making payments. Restructuring loan possibilities and loan consolidation programs should also be considered by banks and students for ways to ensure payments are made as expected. Also, I'm not opposed to funds or grants making possible relief for eligible candidates addressing reasonable solutions for those in over their heads. Universal pre-K : Should the federal government fund Universal preschool? [M Camelangemy (Joshua JMA Campbell-Elanemy) AKA Mark A Campbell of Winchester, VA] Ideally, parents should reasonably try to strike a balance between work and spending time bonding with young children. Teaching their children some of the most important lessons in life certainly has its rewards coming from parents. I believe all parents universally should continue to have this option. When preschool is necessary, however, it is also reasonable to consider having help from the government. For the reasons just mentioned, I would split this cost 50/50. I believe this would still encourage parents who are able to be with their children, and share in educating them, but when this is not reasonable in their circumstances, the cost of preschool is mitigated. The shared investment would also give parents freedom of choice and flexibility on cost and other factors in preschool selection. I believe full payment should be made as usual, and the preschool would keep track of the hours weekly, and report it to the state or another appropriate entity for timely reimbursement. ______CTC[5] Come to Consensus Corner More Current Policy Questions and Short Answers, from iSidewith.com 1. Should the government raise the federal minimum wage? I believe strongly in the $15 minimum wage nationally that was being proposed in 2020, only I realize there are pockets of economic disparity currently that would make this inadvisable in some areas until such matters are addressed locally. There are answers to this disparity, and a gradual increase in nearly all areas, while actively intervening to ensure advancement economically, along with nationwide economic improvement, will help to ensure the success of this transition nationally in the long- or short-term. I believe inflation and the weakening of the dollar, but along with other factors, have led to an increase in some areas more near $20 per hour, but again an improved economy will eventually stabilize the situation. 2a. Should the government impose stricter regulations on the collection and use of personal data by companies? 2b. Should the government implement a national identification system to enhance security and prevent fraud? Of course, the collection or acquisition of personal data should be aligned with what a company genuinely needs to serve a customer properly, effectively, or in some cases to the extent a customer wishes. However, I believe in a greatly improved system for truly secure access, with customer approval in some clearly-defined and secure manner, to such appropriate personal data, from an accurate database, government-protected, to greatly lessen the monotony of most data collection when a customer seeks a new or continuing relationship with a company. While a few possibly random questions might be asked to help ensure personal authenticity, there should also be enough in the way of personal identification to confirm such authentication before personal data becomes available for use. 3. Should the government require tech companies to provide backdoor access to encrypted communications for national security purposes? Why is there any need to change the laws as regards obtaining permission legally for law enforcement to do it’s job in protecting the community or apprehending those engaging in criminal behavior? With appropriate reason or justification by law for obtaining information important to a true investigation into a matter to establish truth, a company is to willingly hand over data that is accurate and unencrypted, or encrypted with specific key access, to assist in such a properly authorized investigation. Next up, to be posted by 6:45 AM: A few more adult/mature issues: 4. What is your stance on Abortion? Ref. Podcasts W5a R07.201-205 Abortion. Gaining Understanding and Finding Agreement with God’s Help; GA R05.751 Safeguarding Life—Both Mother and Child. We are dealing here with one of the most heartbreaking issues mankind has ever faced, having been dealing with situations that became much worse at a time when God was often being presented as either nonexistent or distant from humans, and some authoritative decisions being made without Him or divinely-inspired wisdom, affecting many. By now gaining God’s view of this matter, even while a court decision that was readily permitting often unnecessary physical and emotional harm to an unborn child is no longer in place and could be replaced with one much more understanding and reasonable, we have the opportunity to get this right, and have God’s approval and blessing on decisions made that will affect the life and health of both mothers and their precious children to come. God’s word does make clear His view of the unborn, normally starting from the time of conception, King David even speaking of his time “as an embryo”, ‘when no [body parts] themselves had yet been formed’. Exodus 21:22-23 clarifies the seriousness of the life of the unborn, not to be taken haphazardly, or somehow viewed as inconsequential. Thus so-called abortion pills are not the answer, after-the-fact. Rather, such things as the distance-intimacy that God has made possible for those choosing Engagement as young as high-school age, parent-approved as necessary, provides much satisfaction expressing affection as a couple works toward a beautiful marriage, a wonderful life together, respecting God in their life, receiving of His guidance and real help throughout such a potentially tumultuous time leading to graduation and beyond. After marriage there is a natural way to avoid pregnancy with the greater intimacy that God provided in marriage, getting ‘down’ to the nitty-gritty, but of course He permits most other conception methods as well. An expecting mother should be careful to receive good nutrition, looking to God for such help, to ensure womb integrity etc., and in special cases like rape and incest appeals to God may be made, to terminate the pregnancy. In some situations, with God’s approval, a termination is possible as at 6- or 12 weeks, [avoiding any crossover of the 14-week pain threshold causes serious and possibly irreversible trauma to the unborn (which some drugs,etc. can reduce from 15 weeks)] a termination that can allow a restart later upon marriage, but such situations should never be encouraged, nor should they really ever occur. If ever a decision must be made between the life of the mother and that of the unborn child, the mother should have the right with her husband and before God to make that decision, but such a situation should be quite rare with proper nutrition, etc. Abortion does not occur in the natural world of animals around us, and God gives us everything we need to be truly satisfied as middle-youth grow to adulthood. One more thing--many women will be happy, even exultant, to know of God's power to re-start many pregnancies from times past, when such things were little understood, and when they would be ready for this, under His Kingdom. 5. Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? 6. Do you support the legalization of same sex marriage? Again, when we include God and divinely-inspired wisdom in the matter, things start to make sense, even regarding a real situation or circumstance that we would tend to believe should not exist but does. God indeed loves all persons, and understands the causes of certain conditions that may be relatively uncommon. God did ‘make them male and female’, so with their very real emotions and upright intentions, some gay couples do indeed love children and wish to have one or more to raise. The causes of their feelings for each other can be varied or multiple and involve such things as being caught between two genders due to drugs or therapies applied to a mother hoping for a child of one gender or another, without realizing that God has reserved that decision, and that we should appeal to Him regarding it, realizing that He does know us best and what truly is best for a married couple, family, community, etc. There can also be other influences, such as hormone-treated milk/dairy products, skin creams with synthetic or other ingredients, foods treated with synthetic or chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, etc., and so on. Truly the best way forward in this circumstance is for this gay couple to appeal to God for help to correct their own gender circumstance, and begin quickly to feel more normal as they should, and then be in a position to consider their plans from that point on. Nevertheless, one recommendation could also be for one of the two, likely the stronger of the two, to take full responsibility for a child, with this understanding, so this one can readily transition to a new family that includes this one parent/guardian, certainly with the other as a possible close friend of the new family going forward, and that one being likewise so blessed with a spouse and potential family for a happy future, blessed by God. There could also be a period of time with multiple persons together, potentially up to two new families living together due to the emotional connections having been made, this arrangement also being God-blessed as children grow toward adulthood, well-adjusted to life with God’s guidance, grateful for a life not torn apart emotionally by these circumstances. 7. Should people under the age of 18 years old be able to receive gender-transition treatments? With the insight gained from the previous question/response, it should be clear that God never intended these gender in-between circumstances. Being honest and appealing to God should reveal the gender that God intended for each one, realizing also that in some special circumstances God may be able to decide again, but trust God with such things, as your ability to respect and obey Him or the Son may be involved, and thereby your own happiness and those around you. Some in their circumstances may have no difficulty with any such transition in their current community, esp. with the typical patience and understanding of community members, and appropriate discipline of any prejudiced bullying or using of abusive speech. There may need to be class and even adult discussions to overcome prejudice in all it’s forms. Of course God has power to transform, and there are no gender-transition treatments that God wishes doctors, etc. to use, which would almost invariably lead to an imperfect or incomplete “solution”. There is also an option for transitioning elsewhere, where you may be little known, having an opportunity to get to know yourself anew and make new friends, and if older, a new place to live and work that is acceptable, and along with God’s guidance, becoming comfortable or accustomed to life, more satisfied, as your appropriate gender. Gaining confidence, you may then have no qualms about returning to your community or communities, happy and satisfied with your new life, or with life as God meant it to be! To be continued, perhaps daily... _____CTC[6] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER Week 14: ISSUE BY ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: Driving Under the Influence ALCOHOL’S EFFECTS . While deaths caused by such driving may have been dropping a little over the past few years, most would agree that more needs to be done. Each year, in the United States, over 10,000 people have been losing their lives to an accident caused by at least one person driving under the (affecting) influence of alcohol. It is well established that drinking alcohol lowers a person’s inhibitions, or restraints. In other words, alcohol allows the brain to relax, and to a degree, to let loose. When used in moderation, as God intended, this letting loose contributes to many temporarily becoming more outgoing, social. Thus wine is presented in God's word as a gift to man. Among other things provided by God, Psalm 104:15 then mentions "And wine that makes man's heart rejoice, Oil that makes the face shine (or, 'lights up the face'), And bread that sustains the heart of mortal man." Yet as with many gifts, this one can also be abused. With too much drinking, people may begin to say things they wouldn’t ordinarily say, and their conduct can also be affected. If then attempting to drive, they may take risks they wouldn’t ordinarily take, and make poorer judgements. But that is not all—the more alcohol that is consumed, physical coordination and motor skills also decline. People become less able to handle the many decisions that are required to safely operate a motor vehicle. Their reaction time is dramatically affected, causing them to take longer, even much longer, to respond to sudden occurrences as happen often when driving a vehicle on public roadways. All the while, many of these persons somehow still believe they are just as capable of driving as they normally are without alcohol in their system. What a false sense of security! BLOOD-ALCOHOL LEVELS . While much research could be done into various sources of alcohol, and whether some drinks have more of an affect than others, the bottom line usually is found in the amount of alcohol that enters the bloodstream, which can be measured as a BAC level, standing for Blood-Alcohol-Concentration. For U.S. states, now typically 0.08% BAC will result in a DUI, or Driving Under the Influence charge if suspected of drunk driving or involved in an accident. Federal law sets this as a minimum to define drunk driving, and for commercial drivers the level is 0.04% that can result in a conviction. Most states also now have even stiffer penalties for exceeding higher limits, such as 0.15% BAC. Being able to recognize that it was a drunk driver that caused a serious accident is one thing, but now what can be done about this ongoing catastrophe? One person dies in the U.S. on average every 50 minutes from a motor vehicle incident involving a drunk driver. About 10% of these are pedestrians. And on a typical weekend night, alcohol is involved in some 50% of deaths involving motor vehicles! Many of us may be taking this matter much too lightly--who of us would like to be responsible for such a tragedy??? While the resurrection will restore innocent life and people can be mercifully forgiven, God’s Kingdom will not allow this to continue! How can this be remedied? We might start by making sure we're educated about how blood-alcohol levels are affected by drinking.Those going out for drinks might consider finding a BAC Calculator app for their phone or other device, helping to gain understanding as to how various drinks affect these levels per gender and body weight. For example, if two servings give someone a BAC of 0.04%, which is a level that can cause "impaired driving," each hour this will typically drop by 0.015%, so in two hours the level would be approximately 0.01%, if afterward choosing non-alcoholic beverages, this much better for most driving. What else can be done? DESIGNATED DRIVERS . One matter that could quickly be instituted, wherever this is not already practiced, is to require bar and restaurant attendants to request from a group of customers eager to consume alcoholic beverages to identify their “designated driver(s).” These individuals may choose to drink non-alcoholic drink(s) instead, refraining from any alcoholic beverage, or might choose to consume one serving, possibly two, of a familiar beverage, if possible, depending on length of stay, to remain well under any BAC level risk. The rest should still be reasonable in their consumption, understanding body weight, and length of stay, possibly drinking from a non-alcoholic pitcher in between each alcoholic beverage, be it a beer, a glass of wine, or a shot of strong drink. These each deliver on average about the same amount of alcohol. Why shouldn't all be carded, including Designated Driver(s), in his or her case to ensure an up-to-date Driver's License? Having identified the designated individuals, a waiter or waitress can keep an eye on them, to support their determination to remain capable of driving safely upon leaving. DD’s should take their responsibility seriously, knowing that authorities may be contacted if they somehow have violated their role. These should be able to choose from a fine selection of non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy on this occasion. Some restaurants might even offer a discount on such beverages to these designated drivers, to encourage safe practices, but at least having these drinks made available demonstrates support for this arrangement. Where taxis are widely available, an outing may be planned both coming and going, so an entire group might share more freely in their alcohol consumption. LICENSE INFORMATION . Another matter that can be addressed is that of information available on Driver’s Licenses. Are not drinkers carded to ensure proper age? While licenses typically have information used to positively identify someone, such as a face, eye color and height, one thing is often missing that can help someone to know how much alcohol can be consumed—a person’s weight! While there are a few factors involved, still we find typically that a larger, heavier person can handle a bit more alcohol than a smaller, lighter person. Also, it has come to my attention that there are some individuals on planet Earth that are able to handle alcohol much better than the average human--their BAC is not affected the same as others. Therefore, besides a weight indication on a person's license, there might also be shown an AAF--Alcohol Assimilation Factor--perhaps from between 1 and 3. A level of 3 would indicate the person can handle at least three times the amount of alcohol as the normal person. Most, of course, would be a level 1, but if someone believes it may be different, some provision could be in place for such a person to have their BAC tested, perhaps with just a small amount of a familiar alcohol at the local DMV, to indicate the proper factor on their license. In general, a person's weight can be a good guide. While weight can change over time, most people tend to remain within a certain range. An easy standard could be set at 10%. If your weight changes and is expected to remain at least 10% higher or lower than what would currently be on your license, then a new license could be obtained, reflecting the change. A person’s weight can easily be determined, in case the new license hasn’t been received yet, or if there is reason to believe it is substantially different than what is stated on the license. Generally, then, three or four different standards could be set, one for those weighing approximately 150 lbs (up to 150 or more), then 200 lbs, or nearly (190-239), and 250 (240-289) lbs. Then anyone about 300 lbs or more could hold to a standard set for 300. Restaurants can look at the typical alcohol content of each of it’s beverages, and establish reasonable drinking limits based on body weight. They could then help their patrons avoid going beyond these reasonable limits, as the alcohol begins to impair the judgment of those consuming it. Also, if a group plans to spend considerable time on this occasion, could they be offered a pitcher of an inexpensive supplemental non-alcoholic beverage at a fair price, to potentially reduce the risk of heavy drinking? LABELLING . And why couldn’t pre-packaged alcoholic beverages be labelled with recommended limits based on these weight guidelines? A beverage label might say that anyone planning to drive limit themselves to a single beverage serving or two, depending on body weight, and length of stay, while recommending numbers such as 3-4-5 serving limits for instance, each for a 150lb, 200lb, and 250lb consumer. These could show amounts recommended over a certain period of time, long enough for the alcohol typically to be processed by the body and leave the system. If this was required by law on all alcoholic beverage products, according to clear guidelines, then no company would gain an unfair or unscrupulous economic advantage by ignoring such a life-promoting practice. Thus, with a little help, people can come to realize what it means in actual practice to "drink responsibly". ONE MORE THREAT . Another significant issue that needs attention is the organic fermenting substance used in the making of a particular brand's beverage. It has become clear that certain beverages, or germal intrusion thereof, has caused a drink to become quite threatening to clear thinking, such as with the near-complete loss of a sense of consequences--outside of the normal BAC range problem. If a drink has been found to cause an otherwise safe drinker to uncharacteristically "keep going" with seemingly no limit, this is an example of possibly a drink's contaminating influence, likely from a particular yeast or fungus used in it's making. This particular situation may be much more responsible for drunk driving deaths than most have yet come to realize. May we not overlook this very serious threat to all of us, and may beverage-makers take reports seriously along these lines, and be quick to remedy any such issue. MOTIVATION . Another way many have been helped to overcome the threat of drinking with the condition of alcoholism is through the educational work and practical help of Alcoholics Anonymous. Chapters exist in many cities and regions throughout the U.S. Many have firmed up their control and returned to normal lives without alcohol, but of course for most it is the type and amount that needs regulated. How helpful if statistics for drunk driving accidents could be compiled and made available to the public more quickly than 6 months after a year’s data is received! To further protect innocent lives, we might also arrange for the government to subsidize the cost of a taxi ride for anyone who winds up in a situation in which they haven't the funds but refuse to drive home after having too much alcohol to drink, as well as the ride the next day if needed to obtain their vehicle. Restaurants and bars should gladly allow such a vehicle to remain in their lot overnight in such situations. Even if a parking ticket must be paid along a city street, this should in no way be considered equitable to the risk to innocent life. CONCLUSION WHAT DELIGHT ! As we see the number of accidents and deaths drop dramatically, how delighted we will be to the praise of our loving Father, Jehovaz! He hates to see the innocent suffer—why He even takes no delight in someone corrupt having to die! As Ezekiel 18:23 says: “23 “‘Do I take any delight at all in the death of someone corrupt,’ is the utterance of the Sovereign Lord Jehovaz, ‘[and] not in that he should turn back from his ways and actually keep living?’” Going forward, may we be determined never to become guilty of risking the precious lives of others by getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after going beyond proper limits of an alcoholic beverage. And may we rejoice to see the day when God's word is fulfilled in saying, such as at Isaiah 25:8-9: " He will swallow up death forever, And the Sovereign Lord Jehovaz will wipe away the tears from all faces. The reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, For Jehovaz himself has spoken it. 9 In that day they will say:“Look! This is our God! We have hoped in him, And he will save us. This is Jehovaz! We have hoped in him. Let us be joyful and rejoice in the salvation by him.” ______CTC[7-11] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER, ALL 5 FOUNDATIONAL ARTICLES FOR THIS SEGMENT LET GOD BE GREAT AGAIN ! (Reserved as a chosen platform, GOD willing) [GOD, meaning the Creator, the God of the Bible, the God who “IS LOVE” (1John 4:8,16)] ALWAYS GREAT! To be clear, in actuality this GOD has always been “GREAT,” but appreciation and reverence for Him has diminished in recent years, for a variety of reasons. We can consider a few main reasons, but also some evidence--we need the facts! It is thus in the minds and hearts of humans that God’s greatness may need to be restored! MISINFORMED ABOUT A LOVING FATHER? Is it possible that some have been misinformed about the true nature of God, and therefore have sadly wanted to believe that there is no God, in some cases because they believe they could then make up their own rules and have no One to tell them right from wrong? But consider, this God is called by Jesus many times the endearing term “Father.” Would it be reasonable for a child to dismiss belief in his or her parents, who have expressed much love for the child, most often the ones protecting him or her from harm during the especially vulnerable early years of growth? Would not much evidence exist for the parents who conceived and gave birth to the child, and then proceeded likely with much love to feed and care for him or her over much time? So with God—most who are familiar with His word the Bible have come to see Him as a loving Father, who cares deeply for the human family of His making! FAMILY “RULES”? And just as any loving father of a household, this God has established rules for the lasting happiness and benefit of all who would abide by them in His household. These rules for instance would help the entire human family to treat one another with respect, dignity, and kindness, as they associate with one another, and seek to enjoy life as God intended. I’m using the term “rules” loosely here, as God’s rules are different from the rules that humans sometimes come up with on their own. Often such “rules” have been inflexible, lacking consideration for varying circumstances, causing us to begrudge the very idea of “rules” sometimes. Still, the Bible, with proof of divine inspiration, contains God’s reasonable laws and standards, that are truly in our lasting best interests, and that reveal loving compassion for practically all humans. Notice PSALM 103:8-14: "Jehovalz [GOD's personal name, three-syllables, together meaning: "He who causes to become." Many Bible manuscripts replaced it with the title "LORD," as have many Bibles, but the earliest original manuscripts retain the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, most accurately, in both meaning and pronunciation, conveyed in English as "Jehovalz"] is merciful and compassionate, Slow to anger and abundant in loyal love. 9 He will not always find fault, Nor will he stay resentful forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor has he repaid us what our errors deserve. 11 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So great is his loyal love toward those who revere him. 12 As far off as the sunrise is from the sunset, So far off from us he has put our transgressions. 13 As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovalz has shown mercy to those who revere him. 14 For he well knows how we are formed, Remembering that we are dust." EVIDENCE? BUT FAITH—IS IT BLIND? Still, what is some of the evidence of God’s existence and His loving interest in the affairs of mankind on planet Earth? But some may object, how can we speak of “evidence”—is not faith blind? There is hardly a more grievous lie than the idea that faith is belief in something for which there is no proof. That is not faith, but rather another term—credulity. Instead, faith as defined in the Bible is a deep trust that is built on solid evidence. It is actually defined in Hebrews chapter 11 verse 1 as “the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld.” Air, for instance, though not easily seen by itself, can be felt, and it’s effects can be seen, for instance, as the wind blows through a leafy tree. Thus evidence reveals the reality of air, despite our inability to see it directly. So it is with God, and other persons or things requiring faith to believe in. That faith is also literally defined in that same verse as “the title deed of the things hoped for.” You may not be standing on the land you purchased, but with the title deed in your hand, you may begin the process of building on that land the home of your dreams. Such is the case with God’s promises in His word, the Bible. Thus the Bible makes mention of “seeing” even God—not literally, but with eyes of faith. The upright man Job, for instance, after God spoke to him and provided evidence of His creative hand in the making of the earth, humans, and animals, for instance, as revealed in Job 38-41 (an excellent read) states in Job 42:5: “5 My ears have heard about you, But now I do see you with my eyes.” BIOMIMETICS. Has not mankind benefitted by examining the intelligent design manifest in living things, so as to improve upon their own designs in electronics and machinery, for instance? Could such intelligent design possibly just come about by chance, without someone causing it? Is it really logical that some mindless evolutionary process achieved such intelligent accomplishments? And is it really fair to God to ignore His amazing accomplishments, and attribute them to blind chance? Is this reasonable? Some such persons may even practice badness, as if God does not see. Should they treat God with such disrespect? How would you feel, for all your life's loving labor to be attributed to blind chance? Let God speak, as His word states at Psalm 94:6-9: "They kill the widow and the foreign resident, And they murder the fatherless children. 7 They say: “Joe does not see; The God of Jacob does not take notice of it.” 8 Understand this, you who are unreasoning; You foolish ones, when will you ever show [empathy]? The One who made the ear, can he not hear? The One who formed the eye, can he not see?" Yes, God does see and takes note, yet as described earlier, God is nevertheless very lovingly patient with mankind, wanting as many as possible to gain His reward of eternal life in true peace and happiness. Let's consider more evidence of God's handiwork with two excerpts, one from an article elsewhere on this website, another from commentary of the 119th Psalm. EXCERPT, THE BASICS, par. 8 TECHNOLOGY! It should be abundantly clear that God made the earth with much modern scientific technology in mind. Why can this be said? Take computers, for example. It would not be possible to have these portable machines if Jehovalz did not create the elements, whether metals or semiconductors, like the silicon in sand, with certain capabilities and properties to allow computer chips and other components to be made. God made all of this possible by the materials and their properties in earth's available bounty. How loving and wise is our Creator Jehovalz, so evident in the incredible way He made us and had in mind human creativity and our eternal happiness. "O the depth of God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How unsearchable his judgments are and beyond tracing out his ways are! 34 For "who has come to know Jehovalz's mind, or who has become his advisor?...Because from him and by him and for him are all things..." (Romans 11:33-36). EXCERPT, Psalm 119 Commentary, verse 68: "You are good and your works are good. Teach me your [instructions]." EVIDENCE OF GOD'S LOVE. Thus, Jehovalz’z works are in harmony with His personality—they are a manifestation of His great love, wisdom, power, and sense of justice. His primary quality, according to His word, is love. While God HAS the other qualities, it is only love that He IS. (1John 4:8,16). Therefore, we can expect His works, past, present, and future to primarily manifest this quality. Can we not see this in God’s works of creation? The way humans have been made ‘in God’s image,’ to be able to think, reason, draw conclusions, work with our hands, move with our feet, laugh, and enjoy living—can we not appreciate our Great Designer? How much work would teams of scientists and engineers have to do to design and create a robot that could do all the things humans are capable of doing? Could it really just come about by chance? What about all that went into the animal creation, with the delightful experiences of watching kittens or puppies at play, seeing squirrels or other acrobatic creatures amaze us with their feats of skill, witnessing a bird’s talented flight or listening to birdsong? What about the sights and aromas of beautiful flowers or blossoming trees in springtime? Then being able to share such times with friends and loved ones, delighting in conversation over meals and other enjoyable activities—can our appreciation and love for God not continue to grow as we contemplate His uncountably numerous kindnesses manifested toward the human family? Yes, Jehovalz is good and His works are good! Like the psalmist, may we thus be moved to willingly learn from God even His detailed guidance for us, that we may know how to live and support the doing of His will and good purpose. CONCLUSION: EVERY REASON--IT'S HIS UNIVERSE! Thus, while people may have a reason here or there for diminishing respect for God in their minds or hearts, we really have every reason to appreciate and highly esteem God for His wonderful works toward mankind! Psalm 40:5 states, for instance: "How many things you have done, O Jehovalz my God, Your wonderful works and your thoughts toward us. None can compare to you; If I were to try to tell and speak of them,They would be too numerous to recount!" How should this motivate us? We should be moved to listen to God's good guidance, as we find Him truly worthy of being the Sovereign Ruler of His own Universe! As acknowledged at Revelation 4:11, "“You are worthy, Jehovalz our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they came into existence and were created.” The forefathers of this nation, the United States, largely appreciated GOD's blessing on their efforts to initiate a way of government that could truly care for it's citizens and allow for genuine freedoms including the freedom to worship God together. It can truly be said that without GOD's favor, help and blessing, this nation would never have gotten off the ground! May we likewise today look for GOD's blessing on His perfecting a Kingdom government by which He may accomplish His loving will regarding humans, to usher in genuine peace and happiness, showering His approval on mankind! _____CTC[8] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER CONFIDENCE IN THE CREATOR AND HIS INSPIRED WORD VITAL FOR TRUE HAPPINESS . LIFT UP YOUR EYES ...As we began to consider previously, man’s Creator, GOD, has demonstrated great love, power, wisdom, and even a sense of justice in the way He made the Universe, this planet, and all that is on and within it. This includes such an incredible variety of creatures, and food supporting man, who according to GOD’s inspired Word, the Bible, is the only physical, or physiological, creature made “in GOD’s image,” or after HIS likeness, having capacity for the same qualities and full character such as HE has (Genesis 1:26). The Bible opens with these inspiring words: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1). Who has raised their eyes to a clear night sky, away from city lights, and not been impressed by the vastness and the sheer number and presumed order of the stars reaching our planet’s view. Notice what the Bible says regarding this: “26 “Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who brings out their army by number; He calls them all by name. Because of his vast dynamic energy and his awe-inspiring power, Not one of them is missing.” (those He created, Isaiah 40:26). DEEPLY IMPRESSED? If you had all the names of these stars in front of you, how many of them could you recall? How long would it take you to learn a thousand, a million, a billion? As GOD created them, He reasonably named them, over aeons of time, and Has the capacity to remain familiar with each one. Can we not be deeply impressed, and inspired, as we contemplate and ponder GOD’s great power? Previous to that verse in the Bible book of Isaiah, comes this question from GOD Himself: “25 “To whom can you liken me to make me his equal?” says the Holy One.” Thus, no creation of GOD deserves the same respect, devotion, even worship that only GOD deserves. And by GOD’s own word, another of His inspiring qualities comes to the fore: He is “the Holy One.” Contrary to some opinion, this quality should be quite attractive—it means GOD is pure, clean, uncorrupt, never abusive of His power. That quality does not make Him arrogant, rather it is as He says at Isaiah 57:15: “15 For this is what the High and Lofty One says, Who lives forever and whose name is holy: “I reside in the high and holy place, But also with those crushed and lowly in spirit, To revive the spirit of the lowly And to revive the heart of those being crushed.” Thus this quality is in agreement with His primary quality, LOVE. THE GOD WHO “IS LOVE” LOVING GOD AND NEIGHBOR. Not only has GOD revealed tremendous love in the way He made mankind and this earth, but His Word, the Bible, actually goes into greater detail on how this quality is cultivated and demonstrated. Other qualities come together to make up this crowning quality of LOVE, which is not only shown by GOD, but should be shown by humans for GOD and for other humans. GOD’s Son Jesus, revealed the greatest commandments of GOD’s law to descendants of HIS servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, renamed Israel, whose lives are depicted in the first Bible book of Genesis. That law is detailed in the Bible books of Exodus and Leviticus. The fifth book of Deuteronomy explains some of that law, in encouraging GOD’s people at that time to love and obey Him implicitly, en route to the Promised Land of their inheritance. GOD had loyally promised Abraham that his descendants would acquire a land of Promise, a land “flowing with milk and honey.” (Exodus 3:8). The commandments Jesus said were greatest had to do with LOVE—we are to love GOD with all we have, and then our neighbor as ourselves. (Matthew 22:37-39). We show our love for GOD by obeying Him (1John 5:3). IT IS GOD WHO KNOWS BEST HOW HUMANS CAN DWELL TOGETHER IN TRUE PEACE AND HAPPINESS—BY OBEYING GOD FIRST WE THUS MAKE HIM HAPPY AND SHOW MORE COMPLETE LOVE TO OTHERS AND PROMOTE GENUINE UNITY. BLESSED FOR OBEDIENCE. Abraham’s descendants eventually ended up in Egypt, as slaves, but at GOD’s appointed time, HE loyally saved them from their plight, and keeping His promise to His faithful servant Abraham, eventually brought them into the Land Promised to them. When they obeyed GOD, they were blessed, and under the rule of David’s son Solomon, there was extraordinary peace and prosperity, as a foregleam of earthwide promises GOD has made for the near future in our day, under the promised rule of “a son of man,” born in the line of David, with even greater blessings by GOD. (1Kings 4:25; Jeremiah 23:5; Daniel 7:13-14; Psalm 72:7-8; Psalm 132:10-11; Luke 18:7-8). The Bible book of Revelation, among other Bible books, foretells blessings of a government on earth having HIS approval. GOD’S PURPOSES LOVING, BENEFICIAL, ENLIGHTENING AND TRUSTWORTHY HE WILL WIPE OUT EVERY TEAR. Revelation makes this promise: “3 With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4). Must all people ascend to heaven for true happiness and peace, or is it possible that such conditions could, with GOD’s blessing, come about right here on planet Earth, “with mankind?”!! The Creator, GOD Himself, has an incredible record of reliability regarding His purposes, just as HE was able to rescue His people Israel out of slavery in Egypt, out of the hands of Pharaoh’s army, parting the Red Sea for their escape, where to this day is evidence of Pharaoh’s chariots and chariot wheels, which God’s word stated HE was removing from the chariots as HE fought against them to protect Israel. (Exodus 14:25, KJV). TRUST GOD AND HIS WORD FOR SALVATION. What of Pharaoh’s army, who perished in the Red Sea? This story makes it clear that people need FAITH, or CONFIDENCE IN GOD AND HIS WORD for salvation and happiness. How so? You may recall that this occurred only after the Tenth Plague on Egypt, the striking of the firstborn. You may recall that around the time of Moses' birth, the king of Egypt was commanding something similar regarding the Israelites (Exodus 1). God now answers, with the Tenth plague, but with a merciful provision. JEHOVOE is a GOD of freedom—so HE allows people to choose their own course, although there are often consequences to bad decisions. God allowed Pharaoh to become so stubborn, despite all the proof of GOD’s great power over the other gods of Egypt. Still, all that was necessary was the placing of the blood of a lamb or a goat on the doorposts of a home, likely using the animal as for a life-saving meal, for the angel to “pass over” the house and not strike the firstborn. Those showing no faith in GOD or HIS WORD, and didn’t heed the warning, did suffer loss. Still, the seriousness of the matter of letting GOD’S PEOPLE GO and worship Him was also made clear—it had become a life or death matter to GOD, the doing of HIS will, and the keeping of His word. It was the Hebrew Joseph that GOD used to save countless lives in Egypt and elsewhere during the great famine. (Genesis 41:54-57). For hundreds of years Egypt had benefitted from Hebrew labor and toil. Yet, that time was up—rather, it was time for GOD to keep His promise to His Hebrew servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Thus, chasing after GOD’s people, showing no faith in GOD’s power, was risky business. Israel, however, left with a vast mixed crowd of EGYPTIANS—WHO DID PUT FAITH IN GOD, and wanted to worship HIM among GOD’s people. (Exodus 12:38). Thus it was an individual choice to love and obey GOD or not. It is ultimately ENDLESS LIFE IN TRUE HAPPINESS that GOD PURPOSES for obedient mankind. (Psalm 37:29). CONCLUSION: JESUS’ SIMILAR PLEA. Did Jesus support this recommendation? Absolutely! Among the important statements He made when being tempted by Satan was this: “It is written: “ MAN MUST LIVE, NOT ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD COMING FROM JEHOVOE’S MOUTH. ” (Matthew 4:4). Thus, all should aim to become keenly aware of GOD’s instruction and guidance, benefitting from it regularly, just as we benefit from life-promoting food on a daily basis. Another Scripture stating the value of GOD’s written word, is found at 2Timothy 3:16-17. Here it is from a simplified translation: “16 God has breathed life into all of Scripture. It is useful for teaching us what is true. It is useful for correcting our mistakes. It is useful for making our lives whole again. It is useful for training us to do what is right. 17 By using Scripture, a man of God can be completely prepared to do every good thing. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 | NIRV) UNDER THE RULE OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT, THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN HIS WORD WILL MAKE POSSIBLE PUBLIC POLICIES THAT PROMOTE HONESTY, FAIRNESS, REASONABLENESS AND HAPPINESS . It may be that even now adherence to GOD's word is allowing some success in policy-making and follow-through. Many of GOD’s policies are clearly set forth in His Word. Still, some questions remain: Is GOD’s word meant to be understood accurately? How so, and how might misunderstandings have hindered confidence in GOD? Also, how is GOD’s purpose Universal in scope, but what should come first? And, HOW IS IT THAT GOD’S STANDARDS ARE REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE AND REWARDING? _____CTC[9] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER CONFIDENCE IN GOD AND HIS WORD PROMOTES GENUINE PEACEFUL UNITY . GOD’S WORD MEANT TO BE UNDERSTOOD ACCURATELY BY SINCERE, DILIGENT STUDENTS TRUTHFUL GUIDANCE? Did GOD intend for so many things to remain confusing, or did HE give us enough truthful instruction that those loving HIM and HIS Son may really get to know them well enough to understand GOD’s loving and just purposes for mankind, and to practice qualities that contribute to lasting peace, unity, and happiness, endearing ones to them? We needn’t wonder, for GOD’s Word itself has the answer. Notice, for instance, the desire of GOD expressed at 1Corinthians 1:10: “10 Now I urge you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all speak in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you may be completely united in the same mind and in the same line of thought.” TRUE UNITY POSSIBLE. What can bring about such unity? Notice, respect for the Lord Jesus Christ is involved. Accordingly, adherence to the truth of God’s word and will. Jesus said in prayer to GOD, for instance, regarding his disciples: “17 Sanctify them by means of the truth; your word is truth.“ (John 17:17). Loyal love for GOD is involved, and 1John 5:3 says: “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” Likewise, Isaiah 48:17-18 says: “17 This is what Jehovah says, your Repurchaser, the Holy One of Israel: “I, Jehovah, am your God, The One teaching you to benefit yourself, The One guiding you in the way you should walk. 18 If only you would pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” Thus peace would flow abundantly, and adherence to GOD’s right laws and standards would be shown consistently. This is made possible by getting to know GOD and Jesus through attention to GOD’s inspired word, the Bible. As John 17:3 says: “3 This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” Therefore, both GOD and Jesus are involved in eternal salvation, yet their personalities are similar, according to the Bible. Bible Grammar and Translation Sometimes a Factor MISUNDERSTOOD GRAMMAR. There are instances where incorrect grammar translation has resulted in confusion about an important spiritual matter, even hindering the faith of some in the Creator. Here is a significant example, involving a common mistranslation that affects our view of prayer. Have you ever prayed for something once, perhaps a reasonable request of God, expecting it to come to you soon afterward? Were you then disappointed, left questioning the Creator’s power or love or justice or wisdom, or His rightful authority as the “Hearer of prayer?” (Psalm 65:2). You may have read in the Bible Jesus’ own words, such as at Luke 11:9, in the King James Version: “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Would this not give credence to your thinking? Yet, is this really the correct grammar for this verse, and does the context support it? CONTEXT REVEALS TRUTH. The actual correct grammar here is known as the “present imperative” in Koine Greek, the original language of this Bible book. Notice how the NWT, the New World Translation, translates this text: ““9 So I say to you, keep on asking, and it will be given you; keep on seeking, and you will find; keep on knocking, and it will be opened to you.” The emphasis here is on persistence, which is the lesson Jesus had just taught in the preceding parable! Many Bible versions mistranslate this verse, after the pattern of the KJV. Notice the parable Jesus uses in verses 5-8, KJV: “5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” Now, we must understand “importunity” to comprehend this—to be importunate is “troublesomely urgent: overly persistent in request or demand.” (Merriam-Webster, 2018) So as verse 8 says, because of his urgent and persistent requests the friend gave him what he needed. Therefore, God wants us to be persistent in our requests that really matter to us in harmony with His will, in faith trusting in Him to hear and supply what’s needed as He deems appropriate. Might this not help to bolster the faith of some who didn’t realize the correct translation of that important Bible verse? Of course, other factors are involved in the answering of prayers by God, but clearly this point is more than trivial. This provides evidence as well that Bible translators are not infallible—they can make mistakes in their translating work. Yet, the Bible has largely been translated rather faithfully from it’s original languages of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Most mistakes are usually minor in importance, although some serious discrepancies have crept in. (For a better understanding, see the article “Finding Truth” or “Bible Translations—Are Their Translators Infallible” elsewhere on this website). TRUE CHRISTIANITY A MARCH OF LIFE MANY TO MAINTAIN LIFE INTO ETERNITY! It appears that some have the notion that embracing Christianity is signing on to martyrdom. THAT IS NOT THE WILL OF GOD! They may get this notion by misinterpreting Scriptures such as 1Peter 2:21, where Peter, in the context of enduring hardships and insults from others, writes: “In fact, to this course you were called, because even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow his steps closely.” It is not his death that Christians are to follow closely, but his faithful obedience to God and his patient endurance of wrong. While Christians should be willing to loyally obey God even in the face of threats and death, as some early Christians did, this was largely done by those having a hope of heavenly life as faithful rulers with Christ—not that of an earthly Paradise, under Christ’s rulership. The truth is, Christ actually died for others, that many may not even EVER have to face death! Notice a few Scriptures: 2Corinthians 5:14-15 says this: “14 For the love the Christ has compels us, because this is what we have concluded, that one man died for all; so, then, all had died. 15 And he died for all so that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for him who died for them and was raised up.” And when Jesus’ friend Lazarus had died, Martha acknowledged to Jesus: “I know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” She was restating Jesus’ own teachings regarding the condition of the dead, the majority of whom are “sleeping in death,” and awaiting a future resurrection (Matthew 9:24; John 11:11,14; 1Thessalonians 4:13). Jesus then said this: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life; and everyone who is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all. Do you believe this?” Thus Jesus showed that many may even survive “the great tribulation” foretold in GOD’s word, by heeding the the word of GOD and HIS son. (Revelation 7:9-10,13-15). FAITH VITAL! Thus it would be those having FAITH, OR DEEP TRUST, IN GOD AND THE PROMISED SEED, like Israel’s forefather ABRAHAM, that would lead them to eternal life. Thus, after fleshly Israel largely opposed and rejected the son of God, the “ISRAEL OF GOD” became “all those who walk orderly by this (Christian) rule of conduct, peace and mercy be upon them, yes, upon the Israel of God.” (Galatians 6:16; Mathew 23:37-39). Of course, many of fleshly Israel did have faith in Jesus, and these made up the first of those chosen to rule with Christ above. Yet GOD clearly purposed for those of all nations to have opportunity for eternal life through such faith. Thus GOD had told Abraham: “I will surely bless you and I will surely multiply your offspring like the stars of the heavens and like the grains of sand on the seashore, and your offspring will take possession of the gate of his enemies.” (Genesis 22:17). In referencing the “stars of the heavens” and the multitudinous “grains of sand on the seashore,” JEHOVAH GOD doubtless had in mind HIS purpose to fill the entire Universe with people deeply trusting HIM as did HIS “friend,” Abraham (Isaiah 41:8). GOD’S PURPOSE IS THUS UNIVERSAL, BUT FIRST THINGS FIRST: GOD first purposes for those of earth to return to human perfection and health, and clean man’s home planet, the earth, to make it the gem GOD originally intended it to be, welcoming back our ancestors of times past, and helping them learn of GOD’s right ways. To properly care for Earth, global warming must be halted, so the earth can return to it’s normal healthy cycles. In fact, GOD has judgment against those who refuse to cooperate with HIS purpose to protect Man’s earthly home, both spiritually and physically. (Revelation 11:18). Thus, to reiterate from last week’s post: UNDER THE RULE OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT, THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN HIS WORD WILL MAKE POSSIBLE PUBLIC POLICIES THAT PROMOTE HONESTY, FAIRNESS, REASONABLENESS AND HAPPINESS. Such happiness of course includes a healthy home environment, both physically and spiritually, cared for properly by Earth’s inhabitants, those who will respect our planetary home. GOD’S STANDARDS REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE, REWARDING REALISTIC. The laws and pure standards that GOD sets forth in His word the Bible are “not burdensome” to keep, but rather “healthful” and capable of being practiced. Notice the opening words of Psalm 119, clarifying this in verses 1-4: “119 Happy are those who are blameless in their way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah. 2 Happy are those who observe his reminders, Who search for him with all their heart. 3 They practice no unrighteousness; They walk in his ways. 4 You have commanded That your orders be carefully kept.” Thus there are many truly heeding GOD’s word and law, living by it day to day, delighting in integrity to GOD, loving HIM and others, and finding true happiness in doing so! REASONABLE. Those who have determined to live by GOD’s standards have found that they are indeed, reasonable. Our loving GOD does not ask more of us than we can offer. He requires our best effort to obey Him, aiming for a good target of righteousness, or HIS right standards. Our occasional, unintended misses, may then be forgiven on the basis of Christ’s ransom sacrifice. Notice Moses’ words to the people regarding the reasonableness of GOD’s requirements for them: “11 “Now this commandment that I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you, nor is it beyond your reach. 12 It is not in the heavens, so that you have to say, ‘Who will ascend to the heavens and get it for us, so that we may hear it and observe it?’ 13 Nor is it on the other side of the sea, so that you have to say, ‘Who will cross over to the other side of the sea and get it for us, so that we may hear it and observe it?’ 14 For the word is very near you, in your own mouth and in your own heart, so that you may do it.” And Christians are likewise commanded, at Philippians 4:5, “5 Let your reasonableness become known to all men. The Lord is near.” Thus GOD wants many to see that true Christians who live GOD’s way are living proof of HIS reasonable standards. RELIABLE AND REWARDING. JEHOVAH GOD wants all to recognize that HE, as man’s CREATOR, understands us like no other, and that we can TRUST HIS instructions and guidance is truly for our long-term happiness and benefit. Proverbs 3:5-8 thus exhorts: “ 5 Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways take notice of him, And he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not become wise in your own eyes. Fear Jehovah and turn away from bad. 8 It will be a healing to your body And refreshment for your bones.” Thus living by GOD’s standards promotes health and refreshing happiness! Notice the description of GOD’s law found at Psalm 19:7-11: “7 The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring strength. The reminder of Jehovah is trustworthy, making the inexperienced one wise. 8 The orders from Jehovah are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice; The commandment of Jehovah is clean, [“enlightening the eyes”, AMP]. 9 The fear of Jehovah is pure, lasting forever. The judgments of Jehovah are true, altogether righteous.10 They are more desirable than gold, Than much fine gold, And sweeter than honey, the honey that drips from the combs.11 By them your servant has been warned; In keeping them, there is a large reward.” The faith, or deep trust, in GOD mentioned earlier is indeed necessary to please HIM, and notice this aspect, at Hebrews 11:6: “6 Moreover, without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” Thus, GOD is eager to reward and bless HIS faithful people. May we find the blessing of GOD on our activities, as we seek to know HIS right way of doing things, that we may be successful, acting in harmony with GOD’s loving will and purpose. Proverbs 10:22 says: “22 It is the blessing of Jehovah that makes one rich, And He adds no pain with it.” CONCLUSION: MAY JEHOVAH, THE GOD OF LOYAL LOVE, PREVAIL THROUGH CHRIST! Will not GOD ensure we can understand the truth of HIS word, in a way allowing for cooperation and unity regarding HIS purposes for mankind and this planet? Is HE not the worthy one to look to for guidance, being our Creator giving us "life and breath and all things?" He also holds the lives of our loved ones and ancestors of the past in HIS hands. GOD's right as Universal Sovereign has already been challenged by Satan for some thousands of years, but as Creator, with proven love, is HE not the One with primary right to govern HIS creation, with love, compassion, and the protection of peace-loving lives earth-wide? As Revelation 4:11 states: "You are worthy, Jehovah, even our GOD, to receive the glory, and the honor, and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created." May we place full trust and confidence in our Creator to know what is best for mankind, and to use HIS great power to protect innocent ones and our ancestors, such as Abraham, whom GOD called "my friend." (Isaiah 41:8). GOD longs to restore them to life--let GOD prevail according to HIS right to govern us with such love and fairness! RULE THROUGH CHRIST SATISFYING! Psalm 145:16-17 says: "You open your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing. 17 Jehovah is righteous in all his ways And loyal in all that he does." Can we not trust GOD to arrange HIS government to exercise a loving dominion over those submitting to HIS rule? Jesus' example, as shown in GOD's word proves his rule in GOD's government will be fair, just, and loving. May misunderstandings of GOD's word not distract us from our confidence in GOD, trusting HIM to help all willing ones of mankind to embrace the truth found therein, as we work together to clean up the earth and assist one another spiritually to advance and grow to human completeness and good health. And may we trust GOD's standards of fair and honest conduct to prove to be for us REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE, AND REWARDING! And learning to adhere to such standards, may we thereby come to find genuine PEACEFUL UNITY earth-wide under GOD's fair and benevolent rulership through GOD's firstborn son! _____CTC[10] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER LET GOD’S WILL 'BE DONE, ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN' (NIV) What is GOD’s purpose for the Earth? Who does it really belong to, and did HE give much care and attention to it while intending to destroy it soon afterward? BIBLE DIVINELY INSPIRED. We’ve seen over a few weeks time abundant evidence of the divine authorship of the Holy Bible. Just as evidence abounds over the miraculous act of salvation of all Israel through the Red Sea, with Israel having been in slavery in Egypt, and yet by GOD’s mighty hand being led to the land promised to them and to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel). They became the caretakers of GOD’s written word, beginning with Moses, and ending with Jesus’ aged apostle John. Separating the books of psalms, there were thus total 70 books, recorded by some 40 men, over 1,600 years time. Such numbers have significance to GOD, and no human could have choreographed such a design. According to GOD’s own word, HE has not given away the earth to humans, rather possibly “lent" it to us, but rather, as Exodus 19:5 clearly states by GOD, KJV: “for all the earth is mine.” (Compare Psalm 50:7,10-11). Thus, we may peer into GOD’s inspired word to determine HIS loving will and purpose for this lovely planet and the precious people upon it. Let’s use the King James Version for the critical points of our consideration. A FEW VERSES: Let’s take a few clear statements made in GOD’s word, that enlighten us as to HIS intentions regarding this planet. What of the very opening words of the Bible: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Thus the indication is that the earth was no temporary fly-by-night thrown-together creation of GOD. It has been here from “the beginning!” While GOD’s word speaks of the earth’s “pedestals” and it’s “cornerstone,” this is GOD using figurative speech to describe the work HE did in creating it. Job 26:7, in fact, declares: “He stretches out the northern sky over empty space, suspending the earth upon nothing.” GOD asked Job: “Where were you when I founded the earth? Tell me, if you think you understand. Who set its measurements, in case you know, Or who stretched a measuring line across it? Into what were its pedestals sunk, Or who laid its cornerstone, When the morning stars joyfully cried out together, And all the sons of God began shouting in applause?” (Job 38:4-7). Thus, did GOD create the earth to be destroyed or to be inhabited? Isaiah 45:18, KJV, says this: “For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.” But for how long? Ecclesiastes 1:4 says this, KJV: “One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh: but the earth abideth for ever.” FIGURATIVE DESTRUCTION. But if that verse is true that the earth is to last “for ever,” then does that mean people must continue to be born and die in a cycle of life and death endlessly? This is life as we know it under the current governmental framework. But is that GOD’s loving will and purpose for humans? There is a happy end to the cycle! But first, what of mention of the “heavens” passing away and it’s elements “melt” and “the earth...burned up” and “all these things...dissolved?” (2Peter 3:10-11). For all of GOD’s word to be true, this must carry a different meaning, a figurative one. We need only look two verses later for hope: “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.” Is it reasonable that GOD will destroy this entire universe and planet Earth, creating a new physical universe, to make this one scripture come true literally? Or, what of GOD’s use of the term “heavens” in the Bible to refer to government, and the term “earth” to earthly society or it’s seemingly stable political framework? (Isaiah 1:2; Revelation 12:15-17) A FEW MORE: Revelation 21:1-5, KJV mentions this “new heaven and a new earth” and says “and there was no more sea.” Is this literal—will the oceans be removed from planet Earth, or does Isaiah 57:20-21 show the figurative meaning of the sea, that there will eventually be no more wickedness among earth’s inhabitants? This verse reads: “But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” Thus, GOD will step in to arrange HIS own rulership, welcoming mankind into a new society, a peaceful, righteous one, where true happiness may prevail! A few more scriptures reveal such intentions by GOD: Proverbs 2:20-22, KJV says: “That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous. For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it. But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it.” Psalm 37:29, KJV says: “The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever.” And Psalm 104:1-2,5, KJV: “Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. 2 Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain:...5 Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.” Also, the verses above in Revelation 21 include this promise in verse 4, in reference to His dwelling with "men" (verse 3), KJV: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." RESURRECTION! No consideration of GOD’s lovely purpose for planet Earth would be complete without including His intention to restore those “sleeping in death” back to life. Of course, Greek philosophy has taught many that humans have a “soul” that never dies, and this seems to bring us comfort, thinking our deceased loved ones are merely alive in a better world. But what comfort is that to a parent who has lost a precious child to a drunken driver, or in some similar disaster? Did “fate” cause such a thing at GOD’s instigation? Or rather, did that driver with free will fail to prudently see the danger, and to “love thy neighbor as thyself,” which would move him or her to avoid alcohol abuse or find another way to travel? (Proverbs 22:3; Matthew 22:39, KJV). NO—GOD did not need another angel in heaven by robbing parents of their precious child! (Job 34:10,12). Rather, GOD’s word reveals most of our deceased loved ones are alive in GOD’s memory, but “sleeping in death.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5,10; John 11:11-14) 1Thessalonians 4:13-14, KJV, says: “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.” More plainly, verse 13 says this in NIV: “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” Thus, Acts 24:15, KJV reveals: “And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.” THOSE HEEDING GOD’S WORD SPARED. GOD has proven time and again to be a Savior of HIS faithful people. Throughout Israel’s perilous history, GOD fought to protect them on numerous occasions from their enemies. Of course, this same GOD allowed the faithless people of Israel to suffer at the hands of the Romans in the years leading up to 70 C.E. But those heeding Jesus’ own warning, and fleeing at the appropriate time, were spared such troubles. Thus we see FAITH, OR DEEP TRUST, even CONFIDENCE IN GOD AND HIS WORD are vital to our salvation and happiness. (Luke 21:20-22). Rather than believing mere Greek and other human philosophies about God and life, as many people come to trust God and His Word, we are able to grow closer together in unity and peace, understanding and supporting GOD’s true purposes and HIS right ways and laws, as revealed through Jesus. Whereas Jesus was a “son of GOD,” he foretold a “son of man,” born in the line of David, with ruling authority, that would follow in his steps, with GOD’s blessing. (For the Bible’s truth on a few important topics, such as the nature of GOD, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, and the difference between the “spirit” and the “soul”, see the article Finding Truth, elsewhere on this website.) NOT TO BE THWARTED BY WOULD-BE THIEVES “YOU ARE WORTHY” Sadly, there have been power-hungry thieves who would try to wrest GOD’s rulership away from HIM and HIS Son, just as Pharaoh believed his gods superior. The issue of GOD’s right to rule mankind, and whose rule is right, is addressed throughout GOD’s Word the Bible. Revelation draws this conclusion, at Revelation 4:11: “11 “You are worthy, Jehovah our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they came into existence and were created.”” May we gratefully support GOD’s rulership, as manifest at HIS appointed time, ever appreciative of HIS giving to us “life and breath and all things.” (Acts 17:25). It is GOD alone who can restore by resurrection the lives of our forefathers—parents, grandparents, etc. and HE “longs” to do so, through His Son. (Job 14:14-15; Ecclesiastes 9:5,10; John 5:28-29). HE is moved to do this by HIS greatest governing trait—TRUE LOYAL LOVE! (1John 4:8,16) Thus anyone competing for GOD’s power, after the example of GOD’s powerful enemy Satan, is threatening the lives of billions of people in the grave—all our ancestors, as well as the true peace and happiness eternally that only GOD can bring. How devastatingly cruel and heartless! However, some may be tricked into such a course by Satan or others. EARTH’S PURPOSE. The foretold son of man supports the Ultimate rulership of the true GOD, the loving Creator Jehovah. Yet it is this same GOD who helped establish the government of the United States enabling much freedom of mankind in harmony with GOD’s good purpose. The Bible reveals Jehovah to be a GOD of freedom, who will no doubt continue to uphold freedoms such as granted by the founding fathers of this nation. The clear Bible teaching of an earthly resurrection helps establish GOD’s purpose for earth—not merely as a testing ground for heavenly life, but as a place wherein people may reside to love GOD and one another into eternity, under a good, true, right, fair and just, peace-loving government! (Psalm 37:29). Jesus did secure some early Christians, however, for heavenly life. And, as we’ve seen, there is a purpose to the stars. Still, Jesus taught all to pray: “Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.” Articles elsewhere on this website help establish GOD’s clear intentions especially regarding our Earth (see, for one, the article: God’s Kingdom—Our Hope). LOYAL PATIENCE. As mentioned previously in this segment, Earth may well prove to be our “home” planet, as GOD’s purpose is unmistakably universal! May we be patient, as we fulfill GOD’s pressing purpose for us to clean up this planet and educate others in GOD’s ways for an eternal life of peace and happiness. Then, with GOD’s blessing and approval, we may see what HE has in store for faithful humans. An end to earth’s troubles is to come: Isaiah 25:8 promises: “He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it.” CONCLUSION: Thus, GOD’S WILL 'ON EARTH' should be fairly clear: TO WIPE AWAY TEARS OF SORROW, BRINGING ABOUT TRUE PEACE AND HAPPINESS, WHILE ELIMINATING SIN, SICKNESS, AND EVEN DEATH ITSELF, CROWNING OBEDIENT MANKIND WITH ETERNAL LIFE. TRUE LOYAL LOVE! May we therefore continue to receive of GOD’s instructions from HIS word, the Bible, making application of it’s counsel in our day-to-day life, growing in our relationships with GOD and others, increasing both our peace and happiness. May family heads look after the welfare of their families, not just physically or materially, but spiritually as well—seeing to the everlasting welfare of those they love. And may as many as possible find GOD’s favor and blessing on into HIS righteous new world, based on HIS greatest governing trait—TRUE LOYAL LOVE! ______CTC[11] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER REALITIES OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT AND BENEFICIAL STANDARDS We’ve seen how GOD’s STANDARDS ARE REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE, AND REWARDING. We’ve also noted that: UNDER THE RULE OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT, THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN HIS WORD WILL MAKE POSSIBLE PUBLIC POLICIES THAT PROMOTE HONESTY, FAIRNESS, REASONABLENESS AND HAPPINESS . APPLYING PRECEPTS. Putting these truths together, the way true peace will be obtained and will remain among mankind will be by both GOD’s blessing, and also by the education and application of GOD’s astounding word and it’s principles, or precepts. This will be seen, for instance, in the vast reduction and practical elimination of serious and life-threatening infractions, such as regarding home and work fire hazards and alcohol-related and other harmful auto incidents. Of course, GOD’s blessings will be flowing upon mankind, and we shall have HIS assistance to promote safety, security, and happiness among one another. Yet all this will be enhanced by means of an extensive public educational policy, blessed by GOD, that will encourage awareness of HIS beneficial laws and standards. And LOVE for GOD and for one another will be the dominant motive prevailing! Let’s take the above examples and consider how we may largely eliminate such threats to our peace. FIRE SAFETY. Under control, fire may be included among some of our most cherished memories, perhaps a campfire with family and friends roasting pre-cooked hot dogs and marshmallows. But out of control, what a threat to our security and happiness! In a home, for instance, what makes the difference? Don't we need both safe and regulated systems and equipment, as well as to be informed about fire hazards and safety, and act accordingly, or appropriately? Today, however, how often are you presented with loving guidance or instruction in these matters? How often is commercial air time used for an educational message regarding fire safety? Yet statistics indicate roughly a 1/2 million fire incidents per year, in a nation of over 300 million people. Shall we say that’s “just” one in 600? Or, rather, is it a 1/2 million too many? WITH JEHOVALZ GOD’s BLESSING in full force under HIS RULERSHIP, HE will assist us! And efforts can be applied under the leadership of the Christ, having access to the helpful guidance necessary to QUICKLY REDUCE and PRACTICALLY ELIMINATE fire hazards around our workplaces and homes. ADVANCEMENTS. And, advancements have been and can be made in the use of fire-resistant building materials and modifications to existing homes. Also, smarter systems can be put in place around cooking equipment and home heating systems. Recommendations can be made, or provided, to assist in such matters. All of this will just make it easier for Jehovalz GOD to fulfill His promises toward mankind, as in Revelation 21:3-4: “3 With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” INTERVENTIONS. As the number of fires quickly drop nationwide and eventually worldwide, GOD Himself will most certainly be behind it. Even praying to Jehovalz, seeking HIS help and blessing each day can reflect our humble, appreciative attitude toward life. And while we aim to maintain a sound mind, can Jehovalz not intervene to prevent a serious mistake or calamity? Certainly His Son will be blessed to bring about changes that will help prevent the problems many have experienced! Under the rule of God's Kingdom, certainly problems can be solved, as we continually look to God and His Son for guidance in life, and may all be grateful for that direction! (Compare Psalm 19:7-8, 11-14). In such ways, Paradise blessings will be achieved and experienced by mankind, and as foretold, GOD is making this possible through the Christ, the Son of man, with his co-rulers, all upholding Jehovalz GOD’s sovereignty! (Matthew 19:28). ONE SUCH INTERVENTION that should soon begin to correct unsafe home electrical systems, and greatly reduce several electrical fire hazards, is my plan to redirect or convert typical 120V AC systems to a 32V DC outlet than can then be safely altered and power-inverted/converted back to AC for typical household use. Initially some work was done on DC 8V systems, a more stable, and effective voltage for many purposes. However, 32V is even more powerful and versatile, without compromising safety. Please allow my patented work with God's blessing to continue on this, and see what may be done to support the work on this in the coming days and months, in line with the rest of us. Since AC power strips must use all the power of a single outlet, without trying to share AC with any other device in the same receptacle, it has been agreed by many that the best approach is to have a single power-inverted AC outlet, that can either have a single power strip hooked to it, OR that outlet can alternatively have other outlets connected over it, such as a typical two-outlet receptacle, with possibly a 6-outlet plug-in, for best efficiency. Made available are plug-in adapters and wall-outlet conversion kits for a 4V upper receptacle and a 32V lower, the one permitting a single Power Strip. In the 6-outlet plug-in, the lower middle receptacle will also support a power strip. This really is adequate, even substantial, due to the technical approach. Also, at the same time that this conversion work can be done at receptacles throughout a home, less conductive ALUMINUM or now TIN receptacle boxes can be used to replace the existing ones, further greatly cutting fire risk at wall outlets. OTHER SOLUTIONS. Until the above solutions are utilized, at least two significant fire risks should be understood by all capable: (1) If any, use of only a Single Power Strip per Wall Outlet, with NO other device plugged into the second receptacle. Otherwise, strange electrical things can happen as the power strip attempts to use all the power of that outlet, with little left for another device, which should therefore be plugged into the Power Strip itself, and a dummy or child-safe plug inserted into the other receptacle instead. (2) Some cheap extension cords pose serious fire risk, allowing for connection of more than one device, commonly three, without the safeguards of a genuine Power strip. Dispose of these, unless the cord is very thick, and then ensure that all devices are connected to the extension end PRIOR to inserting the cord into the Outlet itself. Due to typical system design, adding additional devices, after plugging in, can cause power to be lacking and result in a serious fire. For the kitchen, we can start mass production of BAKING-SODA Fire extinguishers, with less force than typical extinguishers, when dealing with a grease fire, for instance. Look for recommended ways to deal with a grease fire--if you can cut the heat and, not using water, but possibly baking soda--rip open the top of the box and get a handful, throwing onto the fire, then safely cover the pan if possible, this should halt fire and smoke and decrease pan temp. Some typical extinguishers, while good for other fires like electrical, can shoot the burning grease and cause a house fire, whereas using baking soda with proper instructions will cool the hot grease. As regards flammable ceilings and such, capable painters can also use paint rollers to coat either a water-based flame-resistant mixture (evidently best of Rooibos tea and baking soda, about 1:1) over the entire ceiling and even on the walls, or a special nonflammable paint, NOT most oil-based paint, although more of a pain to apply, could also be used. Now we've found a way to apply a coating to a wall, similar to wallpaper, but clear and flame-resistant, as another viable solution! DRIVING INCIDENTS. Along the same lines, can we not expect intervention by GOD and Christ regarding the plague of driving accidents nationwide? MUCH of this is attributed to alcohol abuse—an insidious, confusing influence that deceptively disrupts normal driving skill and ability. The people of GOD will beat this problem, under Christ’s direction, as true knowledge is applied to the issue, with GOD’s blessing! Abnormal fear itself is to be practically eliminated in GOD’s new world. Micah 4:4 says “4 And they will actually sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, and there will be no one making [them] tremble; for the very mouth of Jehovalz of armies has spoken [it].” NEVER ENDANGER OTHERS. May all take a close look at their practices in this regard. Jehovoe GOD is “ready to forgive.” Some have caused others harm in the past by ignoring alcohol’s subtle and deceptive influence. May they turn around from such practices, realizing the danger, and lovingly and compassionately making arrangements so they never endanger others behind the wheel in such circumstances. And many have never fallen into this trap. Under the rulership of Christ, all will be educated in such things, so we can avoid threatening others in such ways! May we behave in ways that uphold GOD’s loving will and purpose for humans, eliminating excessive fear and injustice in our practices. All will be helped to do so in GOD’s new world. CONCLUSION UTTER SORROW TO VANISH. These are just two examples of how the Christ will lead the way in an extensive educational campaign to bring such issues under control with GOD’s benevolent blessing. Arrangements will be made within GOD’s government, likely in cooperation with Christian institutions, to address various matters involving the life and health of humanity. Tears of sorrow will all but vanish as we address issue after issue needing attention to be in harmony with GOD’s loving ways and wondrous Word! May we thus continue to be educated in the marvelous ways of GOD by continually feeding at HIS table, considering thoughts from the Bible that INSPIRE, EDUCATE, CLEANSE, AND BENEFIT all humans accepting such provisions! ______CTC[12] COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER Week 11: ISSUE BY ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: PUSHING RESET: LETTING WORK BECOME MORE ENJOYABLE, REWARDING . Isaiah 65:16-19: “16 So that anyone who seeks a blessing for himself in the earth Will be blessed by the God of truth...For the former distresses will be forgotten; They will be concealed from my eyes. 17 For look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be called to mind, Nor will they come up into the heart. 18 So exult and be joyful forever in what I am creating. For look! I am creating Jerusalem a cause for joy And her people a cause for exultation. 19 And I will rejoice in Jerusalem and exult in my people; No more will there be heard in her the sound of weeping or a cry of distress.” Isaiah 65:22b-23: “22 They will not build for someone else to inhabit, Nor will they plant for others to eat. For the days of my people will be like the days of a tree, And the work of their hands my chosen ones will enjoy to the full. 23 They will not toil for nothing, Nor will they bear children for distress, Because they are the offspring made up of those blessed by Jehovalz, And their descendants with them.” OF NOTE : It is God's will that His Son Jesus/Joshualz above represent Him, like or As/Az God, just as Revelation refers to both of them as the 'First and the Last' the 'Beginning and the End' and (Greek) "the Alpha and the Omega", English "the A and the Z". Thus long ago having received significant authority above to represent His Father, He may be called a "god" (powerful/mighty one) himself, at one with His Father, even "AzGod". There is even increasing evidence that there are two names: The name Jehovalz itself carrying a meaning (with a single "L") that would allow it to be shared between God and His Son acting in His behalf (albeit without all the same power), thus either one with the context revealing which permitting, while Jehovallz (with two "L"s) signifying only the Almighty GOD Himself. LOOKING FORWARD . While most in the U.S. seem to have been pretty content with their jobs in recent years, there are others who, while grateful to have work, still find it difficult to get through the workday. Many have been in this situation for years, and have gotten by, but have looked forward to a time, under God’s Kingdom, when work would be more refreshing, enjoyable. How might such a change come about? THE BLESSING OF JEHOVALZ . It is understandable that many companies have had to work hard to remain viable in the economy of recent years, and often they have felt forced to tighten the work ethic of their employees, to squeeze out every dime possible in profit, just to get by. Of course, sometimes this is because stock companies are driven to gradually increase profits, rather than just to remain profitable. However, under the rule of God’s Kingdom, good companies to remain will prove more reliant upon God for His blessing on their activities. They will be willing to submit to God’s direction as provided through His son. In recent years, emphasis has more often been placed on the dollar, with some attempt at maintaining a level of security/safety, and peace in the workplace. In the process of profit-focus, proper freedoms and happiness of the workers have often been left behind. While the money is a vital part of business, it is “the blessing of Jehovalz that makes rich, and He adds no pain with it.” If all look to Jehovalz and Christ, there is little reason why most good businesses would not be able to thrive while ensuring the security, peace, and also the happiness of those working for them. NOTHING BETTER ! Because of emphasis on certain scriptures, while neglecting others, some have come to believe God’s new world would be largely work-free, but rather, God made it a gift to man to see good for all his hard work. In fact, Ecclesiastes 2 says “24 There is nothing better for a man than to eat and drink and find enjoyment in his hard work. This too, I have realized, is from the hand of the true God.” Thus, our work should be purposeful, and beneficial toward mankind and in harmony with the will of God. Then, we may rejoice in our contribution to society, to a peaceful, prosperous and happy new world. Of course, there would be time for rest and relaxation. In fact, Ecclesiastes 4 says “6 Better is a handful of rest than two handfuls of hard work and chasing after the wind.” And Micah 4 says “4 They will sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, And no one will make them afraid, For the mouth of Jehovalz of armies has spoken.” While this prophecy is yet future, still can we not begin to think along the lines of new world living, and start incorporating better habits that will carry us into an eternity of happiness? WORK SCHEDULES . While there is a variety of work schedules in our economy, for various reasons at each business, there are certain schedules that have become commonplace, and others that have contributed to more peace and enjoyment among workers. What if it was possible to have a common agreeable and reasonable work schedule that gave more time off to workers, while still allowing most a substantial workweek? What if we could “push reset,” and agree on a better schedule for most businesses? With the adoption of the new 8 Day Calendar, in recognition of God's incredible intervention for a longer, 400 day year, and sensible average 100 day quarters, as well as significantly weekending moon phase timings, consideration of work schedules has received increased attention. The new calendar itself is understood to promote a much more refreshing schedule with increased time off alternating weeks, with a one-day adjustment to the second workweek, still 5 days. Why this? What if you started work on a Monday, and worked 5 days through Friday, looking forward to a normal two-day weekend. Then, the next week, after the 7th and new 8th day inserted before Sunday, you began work the next day, called Righzday, and worked through Thursday (or Thunderday), and this time, rather than a two-day weekend, you could enjoy a four-day weekend, Friday through Sunday(Sonaday)? Would that not allow for some extended freedom and enjoyment on the part of many, determining how best to utilize those four days off, every other weekend? The 8-hour per day schedule for most workers is still less intrusive to life than a 10- or 12-hour schedule, which if involving strenuous labor/activity in practice begins to wear on many people, especially through night work. Most businesses with God's blessing can thrive on the forty-hour workweek, but which may even allow special circumstances to be accomodated. How so? Some factories may need continued work through the rest of the week. What if some workers wanted or needed extra work, and chose to extend their workweek into the Friday and/or Saturday [which may change to Sunday, as Saturday is being understood as the true 7th (Rest) day] for one week, and into the Saturday (Sunday, the actual 1st day of week) for the next? They might need the extra pay, at least for a time. What if other workers could work part-time, just the Friday and/or eventual Sunday one week, and just the (same) Sunday the next? The part-time workers would then have as part of their paid responsibility to be available to substitute during the regular week when a job-related employee needs or wants off for some reason! The part-time workers could thus substitute during the week on occasion. Companies that make substitute workers available to companies may receive part of the pay of a worker that they helped a company to locate and eventually acquire as one of their own, at least for a time, or with timely graduated drops to nil. OTHER MATTERS . Also, as mentioned, some jobs are more challenging than others to maintain throughout a workday, such as some factory jobs. If we could "push reset," in many cases, could it be possible for the speed of the equipment to be cut back, even just a bit, to take some of the constant pressure or tension off of many workers, while still maintaining reasonable productivity? Understandably, the timing of some machinery may be such that this is not a simple task to achieve. Still,we shouldn't forget that happy workers can be productive workers! Something tried with success is having the flow of product halted even while the equipment continues to run in other ways, and then resume to allow what was originally a 1 1/2 minute break after 6 minutes of focused work, but recommending a 2 minute break after 8, resulting in 10 minute intervals. Care should be taken though regarding drinks that may increase urges to go before the longer planned breaks--the amount and type of drink is often at issue. Thinking creatively, with God's blessing, there may be other ways to maintain profitability. As well, what if, wherever possible or appropriate, some of the more experienced workers, who’ve perhaps over the years filled several positions in the work at various times, could become sort of “relief workers,” able to fill in for a worker who could use a break for a time, for a drink and a chance to relax, make a phone call, etc. before returning? These could be a back-up to the part-time worker concept mentioned previously. These relief workers may well know the more trying jobs, and could provide assistance to these more often than others. They might also help each other to learn jobs or skills they may not yet know well enough. And they may start their day by filling in for one of the workers who, on occasion, could meet with a supervisor to discuss progress and improvement on the job, as well as any issues that are impeding productivity or job contentment. Having kind and understanding supervisors, of course, would go a long way to promoting job satisfaction. A relief worker could thus also be available for filling in if someone had a genuine emergency and couldn’t come in, until a replacement shows up for work. Then, certainly, job assignments should be examined on occasion to look for ways to make them less demanding, and more reasonably accommodating to an average worker. And, utilizing workers in the right place may also be useful, as some workers thrive on excitement and busy-ness, while others may tend to be more thoughtful and thorough. Most, still, can rise to the occasion when called upon to do so, but a mismatch of personality could create unnecessary tension in an otherwise contented worker. TRUE SUCCESS . Thus, most good businesses could do well in such a scenario, as they look to God to bless their efforts and their work to be successful and profitable. You may have noticed work on the true 7th (Sabbath/Rest) day has not been recommended, even though Sunday has been considered the day for this. Could not Jehovalz’s hand be on the matter, to bless and reward a business that acknowledges His Sabbath or Rest-day requirement, to allow workers time off for spiritual matters? Psalm 127:1 says: “127 Unless Jehovalz builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it. Unless Jehovalz guards the city, It is in vain that the guard stays awake.” Therefore, God’s blessing should be sought paramount on one’s business, with the realization that God’s loving and wise ways contribute to true success! Certainly Jehovalz can assist with finding the contracts or work necessary to keep a business thriving, or at least afloat through an occasional downtime. In this, TRUE success could be found, in looking to God and wisely supporting the doing of His will toward mankind! CONCLUSION LOOK TO JEHOVALZ . What blessings could be in store if most all can be respectful of, and agreeable to, God’s direction for the work that will be done to promote security, peace, and happiness among mankind under the rule of His son! When a business owner and fellow employees look to God and Christ for His blessing, in a work that has His smile of approval, while humbly seeking to be guided by God’s wisdom in business and work activities, there is a good chance of it proving successful. If such a business does start to decline, pray about the matter, and look for the answer, trusting that God may well supply it if we act in faith, or deep trust in Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 says this: “5 Trust in Jehovalz with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding.{or, 'do not rely on what you think you know.'} 6 In all your ways take notice of him{'seek His will'}, And he will make your paths straight.” Such is the path of an upright one. Proverbs 4:18 says “18 But the path of the upright is like the bright morning light That grows brighter and brighter until full daylight.” Revelation also holds promise of a new and better world. After promising an end to such things as death, pain and sorrow, God offers this message: "And the One seated on the throne said: “Look! I am making all things new.” Also he says: “Write, for these words are faithful and true.” (Revelation 21:3-5). May we all look forward to the promised blessings of God’s Kingdom, and the conditions for which human hearts long—the genuine security, peace, happiness, prosperity and freedom that belong to the people of Jehovalz!