This is a place for the Notes as above, but previous to the last few days or so:

07A1: (7) PR-B(14.3). / 10A1: (PA) CTC 2nd UPDATE, More Orderly Time article!! / 02P1: (PA) CTC UPDATE, More Orderly Time article! / 07A1: (PA) CTC, More Orderly Time, notes. / 10A1: (PA) CTC, More Orderly Time. / 08P2: (8A) Upd, CTC, Avoid Driving under Influence. / 03P1: (8B) NV-B (B 609). / 08P1: (8A) Update. / 09A1: Upd, (7) PR-B(14.2). / 02P1: (7) PR-B(14.1). / 06P1: (8B) NV-B (B 608), (8A) CTC-Abortion. / 08P1: Notes, New blogpost 3.

(y.B20,oC16 Tue 7:59 am EST) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs B, chapter 14 verses 10-12, PR-B(14.3).

(y.B11, oC07 Sun 10:24 am EST) Hello! SIGNIFICANT UPDATE to same, Persistent Article, 8A CTC, More Orderly Time, Month and Daynames (8-Day Calendar). The portion of months now adjusted and implemented into article, along with a return of one name. Also another correction or two.

(y.B10,oC06 Sat 2:18 pm EST) Hello! UPDATE to (PA), 8A CTC, More Orderly Time, Month and Daynames (8-Day Calendar).

(y.B02,oB28 Fri 7:27 am EST) Hello! Update, and updating (PA), 8A CTC, More Orderly time, Month and Daynames (8-Day Calendar). Important Name update, and other Dayname corrections, etc.

(y.B01,oB27 Thu 10:27 am EST) Hello! Update to (PA), 8A CTC, More Orderly Month and Daynames (8-Day Calendar).

(y.A31Slt,oB24Mon 8:20,34 pm EST) Hello! Added (8A) Come to Consensus Corner article, Avoid Driving Under the Influence. Update.

(y.A17Son,oB10Mon 3:08 pm EST) Hello! Added (8B) NewsView-B series, (B 703) True Election Results Determined, Honored with God's Blessing.

(y.A16Fan,oB09Sun 2:34; 8:23 pm EST) Hello! Important Update to (8A) Come to Consensus Corner article, Zeroeing Traffic Deaths and Minimizing Accidents, several paragraphs. Slight updates.

(y.A13Thd,oA06Thu 7:45,53; 8:01; 9:27 am EST) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs B, PR-B(14.2), chapter 14, verses 6-9. Above format. Addition to v.9

(y.A07Clm,oA31Fri 2:39 pm EDT) Hello! Added (7) Proverbs B, PR-B(14.1), chapter 14, verses 1-5.

(y.A05Hvn,oA29Wed 6:15 am; 6:18 pm EDT) Hello! Added (8A) additional Come to Consensus Corner article under Latest, entitled Abortion--Gaining Understanding and Finding Agreement with God's Help. Maintained previous CTC article, as another update is still ensuing, on Traffic Deaths and Accidents. ALSO, added (8B) Newsview, NV-B (B 608) Maritime Laws and Narcotics Crimes

(y.A01Son,oA25Sat 8:17 pm EDT) Hello! New blogpost 3.

A follow-up to the Proverbs A (now ch 1-10) that is on the START post (segments 1-3). This offers commentary on the sayings of later chapters, stopping to promote individual or personal examination of the remainder, except for the ending chapters of special import.

This segment began for release of lengthier articles discussing issues of significance and to make policy recommendations.

This is a newer segment that holds possibility of many subjects impacted by the power of true love and a God-blessed family unit.

 The first several CTC policy posts were purposed to lay a true foundation for greater unity, or fair consideration of ideas that we may largely be able to find agreement on. This was the initiating post, and the first several afterward may follow! The posts have been updated in a few places with enhanced translation.

___

{2020 March}

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

(CTC Corner, not to be confused with the China or Canadian Car Touring Championship, both abbreviated CTCC)

As stated above[in the initiating blogpost], I intend this as "a new segment [this was March of 2020] I wish to begin Monday [this began a series of posts 16 weeks in a row], seeking to provide a format for addressing some important or current issue facing our nation or the world, to encourage discussion and reflection on God's view of matters, or His eventual solution to the problem under His Kingdom. The information in this segment will usually not be changed much daily, but rather, may remain up for a week or so, possibly with an occasional news item of interest as well, which may or may not relate to the main issue under inspection."

LET'S LOOK TO GOD'S WORD FOR REFRESHING UNITY. Many persons have cultivated a love for truth, even divine truth, and an associated sense of fairness and what is right. Yet we hear things on various issues that may present ideas or conclusions that may not be considering all the facts or God's view of matters. Some have opinions that may have been formed without sincerity or honesty, with a sense of values not yet attuned to God's word, or without seeing long-term consequences, or while many opinions may be made in harmony with their God-given consciences, these still need training by God's inspired word of truth (Hebrews 4:11-12; 2Timothy 3:16-17). God, of course, is the One who can know the complete story on a matter, and can truly know and decide what is in mankind's best long-term interests, contributing best to our eternal welfare and happiness. May we look forward to considering His view of matters, and how perhaps, as His loyal servants, we may gain more understanding, with empathy, as we discern His right ways and standards, trusting them always to be worth upholding and to be in harmony with what is truly right, fair, just, and honest. Gaining God's view makes possible a true and lasting unity that is not possible through man's efforts alone. Psalm 133 references refreshing unity, and the first high priest, Aaron, whose priestly services as a representative of God made possible great peace among Israel, foreshadowing Christ's priestly role, even as King (Hebrews 3:1; 4:15). As Psalm 133 states, entirely: "Look! How good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like fine oil poured on the head That runs down the beard, Aaron’s beard, And runs down onto the collar of his garments. 3 It is like the dew of Herʹmon That descends on the mountains of Zion. That is where Jehovah decreed his blessing—Life everlasting."

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

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: "Jehovah [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 "Jehovahz"] 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, Jehovah 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 acheived 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: “Joh 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 Jehovah 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 Jehovah, 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 Jehovah'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, Jehovah’s 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, Jehovah 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 Jehovah 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, 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.” 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!

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’S 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 JEHOVAH’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 text 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?

In my Winit-Minute Podcast Series Season 2, I podcasted the 5 original Foundational articles along with this one inserted here, after the first 2. This provides an example of a policy that can reflect divine wisdom in enhancing life with respect for God's rule. In the Find Life And See Podcast (then including 'Earview' in the show name) I used WM2 and the reference R04.xxx in association with the second season's podcasts.

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 Jehovah, And their descendants with them.”

OF NOTE: It is God's will that His Son Jesus/Joshalz 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".

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 JEHOVAH. 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 Jehovah 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 Jehovah of armies has spoken.” While this prophecy is near to fulfillment, 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 on that 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 (or Prayerzday) 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 an extra day or two [Saturday is being understood as the true 7th (Rest) day] for the one week, and another day or so the next? They might need the extra pay, at least for a time. What if other workers could work part-time, just the day or two at week’s end? 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, knowing the job well. 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 minutes, 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 Jehovah’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 or refreshment? For God’s blessing, we need to realize His law and it’s import. Recall what Psalm 127:1 says: “127 Unless Jehovah builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it. Unless Jehovah 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 Jehovah 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 JEHOVAH. 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 Jehovah!

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 Joshalz (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’s 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’s friend Lazarus had died, Martha acknowledged to Jesus: “I know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” She was restating Jesus’s 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 earthwide under GOD's fair and benevolent rulership through GOD's firstborn son!

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 royalty, and the term “earth” to earthly society or it’s seemingly stable political/governmental 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 POTENTIAL 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 some enemy not thinking right, 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 wisely bring. How devastatingly foolish or heartless to challenge God in such a way! However, one may have been tricked into such a course.

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!

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

THEME:

HOW THE KINGDOM OF GOD POTENTIALLY RELATES TO THE (PROPER) U. S. CONSTITUTIONAL REPUBLIC

BRIGHT FUTURE. Most people are familiar with Christian promises of blessings from God regarding a bright future or life as it should be. This relates either to heavenly life similar to angels near to God and His Son, many with strong faith and integrity, or to rewarding life gaining similar virtues in Paradise on Earth. Not all have realized that there has been a secondary application of this arrangement, with people on earth being either of an ‘angelic’ group with higher authority by God, or of an ‘earthly’ group, again with Paradise hopes and blessings. This is understood from Genesis to be God’s purpose for mankind generally, in need of such good rulership, realizing life can and should be right by God, fair, and truly wonderful, perhaps, “heavenly”. Thus God’s word speaks of faith or active belief in God, His Son, and the ransom of Christ’s life of integrity when beneath heaven. This was of great value to God, and makes renewed life possible, with the hopes previously mentioned. Also, God’s Kingdom, described above, ruled by Christ, has become the hope of the world, with resurrection of loved ones, a world of genuine peace and rightness. 

PROMISED PEACE, BLESSINGS. Many are aware of Bible prophecy indicating rule by Joshualz (Jesus) Christ, beginning 1914, ruling under His Father, with great power. The world was on the verge of total war, called the Great War, World War I, called ‘the war to end all wars’, that ended with the United States playing a key role in victory, blessed by God, and President Woodrow Wilson inspired to promote peaceful cooperation with other nations to resolve differences more diplomatically, to avoid violent conflict. Thus, while heaven rules above, the United States began to project or promote God’s way of peace with earth’s governmental power. Recall that both God and His Son are referred to in Revelation as 'the First and the Last', the 'Beginning and the End', and 'the A and the Z'. By Scripture God's Son, Jesus or more correctly, Joshualz, thus also Represents Him, as foretold, serving with authority, albeit with some less power, as a God, or a 'Mighty One', like or As God above (AZGod), under the Almighty (John 1:1; 1Cori 15:50+). Also, 'all things are Yes by means of the Son'. God Himself, also ‘the A and the Z’, is more correctly identified as JEHOVAHZ, including both the first and the last letters of the alphabet, while retaining the meaning of His name, as “He who causes to become, (also to) grow and succeed”.

BLESSED GOVERNMENT. Back up to the beginnings of the United States, and the God-blessed government that the Founders with God's spirit had established. In the 1600’s, people, many well-read, escaping religious persecution in Europe reach what was called ‘the new world’, and on a Mayflower voyage, divinely re-directed from Jamestown [the original colony, named after James, a respected king, nevertheless met with many challenges, also struggling to govern well]. Those on that voyage were determined to establish rule upholding natural rights that accord with Christian life, promoting life as it should be, right by God. The colonies or states were formed on the basis of Christian faith, writing the Declaration of Independence, as well as the Articles of Confederation, choosing to become free from British rule, and victorious under George Washington’s leadership, with God’s help, blessed by Him. They made God-blessed government a prime issue, which lead to further inspired documents such as the U.S. Constitution and many Federalist Papers (the original 66, but ordered among 85). Also of interest, long-established, the Divine Right of Kings, but having been changed, later to receive a God-blessed or Holy Spirit-inspired restoration. The government of the United States that was thereby established was a form of democracy called a Republic, which governs on the basis of well-established laws, which can be legislated with God's blessing. High officials are chosen, lawfully elected by the people as duly qualified with good judgement to legislate, deliberate, and so forth, rather than a simple democracy. These laws are upheld by an informed public and elected officials, with adherence to these strengthened by pleasing and appealing to God, society benefitting greatly from this form of governance, under the royal heaven of God. This contrasts with ruling on the whims of less stable forms or methods of government that have catastrophically failed throughout history, including authoritarian ruling powers, and dictatorships.

PEACE PROMOTED. George Washington was unanimously elected to become the first President, and would become known as the Father of our Country. He was followed by John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, all three, and other faithful men in time, making significant contributions to the country, seeking faithful adherence to the Constitution of the United States, and well-established principles laid out in the Articles. Recall the work of Woodrow Wilson, after the reign of God's Son began from Heaven above; he sought to provide forum for resolving conflict off the battlefield. Closer to our day, the 1970's brought about a better heavenly or royal order of things blessed by God, and later, though with earthly government, Ronald Reagan, for instance, as another U.S. President, did much to restore things that had been neglected, and to make greater strides in promoting peace and good government in this and other lands. In this land, this nation, Christian thought and teaching is largely free to flourish, purposed by God, despite contrary ideas and challenges, with churches promoting good work within communities. 

LOVE, WISDOM OF GOD. With another restoration to U.S. Constitution and U.S. Law adherence, blessed by God, the blessings promised by God can be extended from Heaven potentially through this nation, needing to continue seeking God. This can be brought about and somewhat has already begun to propagate here and throughout the world. Trueness to God, faith in His Son, and love for one another will all prove essential to the wonderful will of God being accomplished through those whom He has purposed to use to accomplish it! There has been an American royalty apart from Britain that God has blessed in this land, and which began to flourish especially since 1914 Christ's rule, thus associated in some ways with God’s Kingdom, benefitting even U.S. government. The Christian virtues thus manifested, all persons wisely benefit to acknowledge and employ. May all come to acknowledge the genuine faith, law(l), love, and wisdom of God which promote respect for God and each other, for God-given rights, and a real freedom, peace, and satisfying way of life. This underscores God’s purpose for the United States, another Jerusalem, established with much faith, and other countries, to come to have and maintain a genuine peace-loving world upholding God’s true and right ways. {ref: my website findlifeandsee.com, Find Life and See Podcast, and findlife.com}

___

*p3a: actually God primarily by His Son Representing Him like or as God (as a 'Mighty One' Himself, but less power), also having: a collective wife, a firstborn like himself, and sons and daughters.

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 JEHOVAH 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 Jehovah not intervene to prevent or undo 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-receptacle 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. Two- and Four- plug outlet plug-ins can be purchased. Also, work can be done for outlets to be situated properly and replaced with the AC-DC-AC conversion, again greatly reducing home fire risk. 

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. Jehovah 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!

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

Week 10: ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: PROPER VIEW OF LAW

Psalm 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of JEHOVAHZ, And he reads His law in an undertone day and night.”

Joshua 1:8 “This book of the law should not depart from your mouth, and you must ponder it day and night, in order to observe carefully all that is written in it; for then your way will be successful and then you will act wisely.”

Jeremiah 31:33 “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” declares JEHOVAHZ. “I will put my law within them, and in their heart I will write it. And I will become their God, and they will become my people.”

NEED FOR LAW. The need for some code of law became apparent with time in man’s history. Before the advent of such laws, humans, closer to the perfection originally present in our first parents, Adam and Eve, generally lived by their consciences. Likely, discussions of right and wrong actions were among the conversations our first parents had with their children. It was possibly even before a law code existed that Joseph fled from having an adulterous affair with his Egyptian owner’s wife, saying “How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God?” In the oral history handed down, he knew God had brought the first man and woman together in marriage, and at this, God’s word says: “That is why a man will leave his father and his mother and he will stick to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24). Thus respect for the covenant of marriage was engendered early on, especially among God-fearing persons.

AN EARLY CODE. One early law code was the code of Hammurabi. This was before the time of Moses. Hammurabi’s code laid down some 282 laws, having been written upon stone pillars within the kingdom of Babylon, so everyone would know the law. Hammurabi is known as the sixth king of Babylon, and is believed to have ruled between 1792 BCE and 1750 BCE. Hammurabi evidently did not write these laws, but brought together and organized existing laws. It became the standard of judgement throughout his empire. Of course, there were some similarities and differences when comparing his law to that of God’s law through Moses. Both codes stated, for instance, that kidnapping a child would bring the death penalty.*

WHY SEVERE PENALTIES? Why do such laws of man and God, even today, have severe punishments associated with certain wrong actions? If everyone is aware of the law code, and knows how severe the penalty would be for a specific harmful, criminal act, this should serve as a powerful deterrent from engaging in wrong conduct, thus enabling a peaceful existence to be maintained in society. Just as violating a law of physics, such as gravity, you know could mean your death, so serious moral laws should never be violated either. God reveals at 2Peter 3:9 that He “...is patient with you because he does not desire anyone to be destroyed (or killed) but desires all to attain to repentance.” Thus, He wants everyone to understand and respect His laws, which promote life and genuine peace and happiness among society, regretting past violations and the harm they may have caused. Hammurabi’s code even included death for robbery, while God’s law through Moses generally only required returning the item stolen, if possible, and added compensation, totaling from an extra 1/5th up to seven times the amount, depending on the situation. Thus, God’s law was more reasonable in this case, while the penalty still serves to deter the crime. 

STILL CONSIDERING CIRCUMSTANCES. At the same time, judges were to take circumstances into account, to judge with fairness, so that the penalty truly fit the crime and the person. A principle of God’s word underscores God’s fairness and love for all, in saying “Mercy exalts triumphantly over judgement”. God’s law promoted fairness and equality, whereas Hammurabi’s law considered a crime less serious if it was committed by one with higher social status. More than a crime against man, God’s law made it clear that crimes such as robbery were also being committed against God—who loves His human children, and wants the peace and happiness of all. They thus were sins against God, requiring forgiveness by Him, to have His blessing restored. And efforts were to be put forth, with real repentance, to undo reasonably and where possible, the harm that had been caused. Submitting to God, a person could at times, based largely on truthfulness, original intent, and/or real correction with faith in Christ, receive judgement of a penalty not as severe. There is also a lesser penalty, temporarily limiting certain freedoms, an excommunication of sorts, that serves to bring realization of the blessings that God through Christ has brought to human society, making civilization and a peaceful world possible.

OTHER PURPOSES OF LAW. We’ve seen that laws can be set as a deterrent from bad actions. But laws can also promote and accentuate good practices and standards. It can be used to set certain payments for government, legal and business services, for instance. It can serve as a guide for helping ensure that all can learn to live respectfully and peaceably with one another. It can outline fair practices between entities, whether governmental, commercial, or personal. It can outline a path to help various peoples overcome some disappointing or failing circumstances, to regain their peace, security, prosperity, freedom and/or happiness after some disaster or unfortunate occurrence(s). Laws can thus be used for much good, and contribute to the above-mentioned conditions that human hearts long to experience and maintain. And contrary to the notion that laws are only restrictive, in truth law can even be made to defend and protect various freedoms that promote such happiness among humanity. God’s word reveals that “where the spirit of JEHOVAHZ is, there is freedom!” (2Cori 3:17). And James speaks of God’s law or lawcode as a 'perfect lawcode that belongs to freedom.' He writes: 'But the one who peers into (or, examines) the perfect lawcode that belongs to freedom and [persists] in it has become, not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the lawcode; and he will be happy in what he does.” (James 1:25). Thus, God’s law can promote wise and good conduct, and help those who adhere to it act with greater wisdom, and find greater happiness. Psalm 19:7-8 says: “7 The law of JEHOVAHZ is perfect, restoring strength. The reminder of JEHOVAHZ is trustworthy, making the naive one wise. 8 The orders from JEHOVAHZ are upright, causing the heart to rejoice; The commandment of JEHOVAHZ is clean, enlightening the eyes.” Therefore, God’s commands support truth and true worship in a way that enables obedient ones to find wisdom and joy, to see more clearly where they are on the path of life, and where they are going.

WHAT OF THE RANSOM? Therefore, the ransom of Christ, while a merciful gift of God, does not do away with law, but rather establishes it. It is having faith, or thankful trust, in that merciful provision for forgiveness that enables ones to gradually grow to greater adherence to the law of God. With a deep faith in God and His word and law, we are moved to respond to God’s love by loving Him in return. And 1John 5:3 explains: “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” Thus by such faith in God’s love, seeing God’s law as a way to know how to love Him in return, true righteousness is made possible, even a complete obedience of the heart of a person. This was not always understood. Some Jews felt that their own circumcision of the flesh itself gave them divine favor. Romans 3:23-24, 29-31 says: “23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and it is as a free gift that they are being declared upright by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Joshualz (Jesus)...29 Or is he the God of the Jews only? Is he not also the God of people of the nations? Yes, also of people of the nations. 30 Since God is one, he will declare circumcised people upright as a result of faith and uncircumcised people upright by means of their faith. 31 Do we, then, abolish law by means of our faith? Not at all! On the contrary, we uphold law.” Likewise, for true Christians, baptism itself is not an automatic sign of divine favor, but it is a “request made to God for a good conscience.” (1Peter 3:21). Holding a good conscience, that is eagerly trained by God’s word, with an obedient and loyal heart, brings divine approval, not as something we earn, but as a free gift, by God’s kindness, through the ransom of Christ. Christian faith in this ransom inspires to greater adherence to God’s word, reflecting divine wisdom.

CONTROLLED THINKING AND CONDUCT. Further serving as a deterrent to crime is a healthy respect for others and discipline, or esteemed control of one's own thinking and emotions, even reactions, in accord with a rightly-trained conscience. Important to achieving this is the realization that thoughts precede, or come before, feelings in the complex mind. Think or ponder a good vacation you've enjoyed, and you may feel quite happy at the idea of planning a similar one. One who has developed such control or discipline, instead of responding in kind, can choose a beneficial response to another's words or conduct, often more helpful.

CONCLUSION

FAITH IN GOD AND HIS WORD. Joshualz (Jesus) when on earth taught many principles of divine truth, that aid one to understand God and His ways better, so as to WANT to live by them. Christ’s teachings help to address one's loyalty and faithfulness to God in a heartfelt way, helping to become obedient from the heart to God’s standards and laws, promoting true peace, uprightness, and happiness. These same teachings enable us to understand the Law of God in Christian light, to identify figurative or spiritual application of some laws that until now (or, previously) were only thought to apply in a literal or physical sense. May we therefore come to delight in the law of God, as others throughout history, and look forward to God’s favored blessings and rewards. This requires faith, or thankful trust, in Him, as explained 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 persistently seeking him.” God’s Kingdom will thus help people to comprehend God’s law in a way that they can understand and live by it, seeing it’s wisdom and value in their life. Perhaps books will be published, with the aim of addressing a certain aspect or topic of God’s law, revealing insight into how it functions to contribute to earth-wide or even universal peace, security, prosperity, freedom, and happiness. They can be written with warmth and understanding, in “plain English” so-to-speak, in a way that may bring delight and satisfaction. May everyone be learning of God’s perfect law, that they may live by it, respecting His law and Son’s teachings, thus honoring our loving God and Father, JEHOVAHZ, as the rightful Sovereign of the Universe.

* WORLD HISTORY for Christian Schools, 1984 ed. pp. 24-25

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER, with Extension to Previous Policy:

Week 16: ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: MORE ORDERLY TIME, MONTH AND 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 quarters to be basically 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, Solvtuday) morning service, allowing the rest of the day and now alternating 2- and 4-day weekends 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 third month or so the alternating work schedule would make possible an incredible 6- to 8-day week ending stretch at month's end!

A SEASONAL BREAK! (2) Recall that there are nominally three months per season or quarter. What if one week were typical Monday through Friday workdays, with the usual two weekend days off. Then the next week began the following day on the second Sunday, or Righzday, and five workdays ended on Thursday, or Thunderday, allowing for a four-day weekend? This would allow for flexibility to consider how to spend those two or four days. Now, God has indicated His preference for an added day every three months or so (approximately 33 1/3 days per month), but technically each month being closer to 33 1/4 days long, with an additional 1+1/16 days per year. This is more precisely the moon phase timing yearly, and there should be good chance of better weather associated with some of these months. Therefore, all months but the four would be 33 days long, actually having one day at month’s end to make a five-day weekend. Beyond this, ending the months of March, May, September, and November, there would be one additional day at month's end (34 days). Accordingly, employers could consider an extra day or two off at these times, to allow for a 7- or 8-day week-ending stretch!

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" or “Himneth” could still find it's place four times a year, even while maintaining the timing of the moon cycle from month to month, each first day being a new moon, with a few months getting off slightly until corrected at month's end. Such a change, already practiced in many states 2024, and now around the world, could be on course to begin soon this year more officially, especially when both calendars align! 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. Recall that each 13th week on the 7-day calendar was the recommended week-long “Humaneth” or “Himneth” break, which links to the extended weekend on the 8-day. By adding one additional “Himneth” week on the 7-day after July (but not on the 8-day), the two calendars can match number of days and basic seasonal timing (the other four weeks end Mar, May, Sep, and Nov). Again this is for the purpose of consistency and correlating dates, planned events, etc from the 7-day to the 8-day calendar. One other matter would be the addition, just like previously, of 1/16th day per year, mentioned already, 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 33-33-34 days (Q1)

(1) Genlucupa (Jan-Gen) - (changed from Jemupluca) Think hard 'G', like 'gear', 'again' or some placenames such as Gennesaret, 'lake of Gennesaret' another name for the 'sea of Galilee' (Luke 5:1), rather than 'Jen' or 'Jenny'. 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. With ‘luc’ for ‘look’, we should thus be 'looking up', and 'luc' can also refer to 'light'. To be successful, we should be in the habit of looking up, overcoming discouragement by trusting God and being hopeful of good starts, improvements and good outcomes. Thus this month name starts with "Gen", similar to "Gen", which refers to beginnings, especially good ones, by God's power. The 'l' reminds us of such things as lines and law. We want our future to always be bright and good, by seeking to do things the right way, blessed by God. Also, noticing the word ‘cup’ can reference appreciation for God’s will, thankful and again realizing our need for His direction and help or guidance, an important reflection upon the new year, as everything we think and do should harmonize with it.

(2) Peasamake (Feb-Pes) - [To a great extent, people want peace, and peaceable living. Also, February is known as a month of purification, associated with greater clarity of thought.] 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. 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 four months of Spring might then be named:

(3) Shuay (Mar-Sha) Recall that a part of Jesus's 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.

Formerly considering Shwa and variants. Jesus's Hebrew name ends with "Shuaz", but English is preferably Joshualz, 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 Joshualz, 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"; there has been more interest with "Shuay" however, and includes "Shua" within the term. The original idea was to connect the month of May, but moving it back to around the time of March fits more with it’s founding place among virtues and in seeking God’s favor and true success. Again, the time of March is more closely aligned with ‘God’s saving power’, as life begins to re-emerge after Winter. Recall that this ending of Jesus' most correct name from Hebrew refers to "Salvation or Rescue", the entire name meaning "Jehovahz 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 "Joshualz," the letters signifying the King or Lord AzGod commissioned to bring all things back to perfection, pronounced JO-SHUALZ’ or JAH-SHUALZ’. The beginnings of Spring experienced in this month may help to 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.

Now 33-34-33 days (Q2)

(4) Rightup (Apr-Rtp) [Formerly Rightnes. Fourth month previously Agreehelp and Shuay. Following the seeking of Peace and Purity in month 2, along with faith inspired by God’s Son, the result can be upright thinking, defending right causes, such as seeking respectful, diplomatic (intelligent conversing) solutions to conflict rather than violence or warfare] The change from Rightnes to Rightup was only because there was great interest in allowing the word ‘rightnes’ to be used in everyday speech, as a quality of someone or something, which had been already in use somewhat, as in ‘the rightness of something’. Rightup can be thought of as similar to Upright, or standing truly or correctly. 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.

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."

(5) Agreehelp (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. 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 seeking to resolve conflict, treating others with compassion and understanding wherever possible.

(6) Trusee (Jun-Tru) 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 Joshualz 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 month five would have two days additional on the last weekend, making possible a six-day weekend without change, but rather, with the additional day(s) from employers, a seven- or eight-day weekend stretch!

The following three months of Summer might then be named:

Now 33-33-34 days (Q3)

(7) Huli or Hummelnes (Jul-Hul or Hum), 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. This is contrasted with EGOPRIDE, a corrupting attitude. 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 "li"can remind of the God “who cannot lie”. The best answers are found in wisely choosing honest words. Also, there is strength in properly motivated sincere respect and kindness. Jesus or Joshualz 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 Jehovahz 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). All this recommends a month named “Hummelnes”. 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, Jehovahz, 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 Jehovahz 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 33-34-33 days (Q4)

(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 Joshualz 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), Back to Seegood not 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. The expression “see good” though found in God’s word, is not in typical use as an expression, permitting it’s use as a Month name. Seegood thus does come across better as a Month name.

(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 fearing 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 Jehovahz 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 Jehovahz 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 Jehovahz, 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.

Sonaday then Righzday (Son/Rih). To replace Sunday, For the first day of the month, Sonaday, then the following week Righzday. Regarding 'Sonaday', 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, the first of the two 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. Sonaday 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, with Sonaday referring also to the effect of time spent in a sauna or beach sunbathing, and much safer due to the God-blessed GOOD salt intake from a previous day, especially found in the 50-50 mix of Iodized (preferably calcium-iodized, with calcium lactate source) and Pink Himalayan Salts, as well as salt found 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 on Sunday, which really refers to rizing without adding yeast, as in croissants, which could traditionally be done on one day every two weeks and was a lengthy affair, and would deter notions of traveling even to church services on this day. Now this is that 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 Sonaday, 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. Rising up on Righzday to begin an early week, working 5 days through Thunderday, makes possible the 4- or 5-day weekends each month, and the even longer "Himneth" stretch every few months!

Moonday then Mindzday (Moo/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. Mindzday 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 more of 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.

Toosday or Pairzday then Truceday (Too or Prz/Trc) now for the two weeks of rotation. Twosomes or Pairs, 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...that is, in more than a light-hearted way...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. We could also point out the closeness of “Toos” to “Tooth”, possibly a good day for dental work that is more than just a cleaning. While 'too' signifying another person is found in the first Toosday, the new second-week Truceday brings to mind aims of peace and resolving conflict, even reaching out beyond our borders, perhaps being reminded of the roots of our Founding Fathers and fledgling nation, but not diminishing our place or role in God's purpose before the world, with "us" being found here as well. Some important truces in history did occur on a Tuesday. Let God’s will be done, so that God may continue to bless the U.S. and other countries, happily supportive of God's will regarding God’s purpose, related to administering blessings of God's Kingdom earthwide, praying for the corrections necessary in the U.S. and elsewhere! As for the next day I explain below how I believe it came to be spelled so.

Wedinsday and Windzaday (Wdn/Wnd). Wednesday. As long as we can keep the connection in mind and heart, what about Wedinsday? Can it not be a day for acknowledging the God's gift of marriage 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 Windzaday? 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/Thd). There may be no need to shorten "Thunderday" 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 Jehovahz'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 Pleadday (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 Pleadday 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 Prairzday 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 Thunderday, five days. Also, court pleas or pleads may normally be entered on this day, honestly addressing a matter with God's help. 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 Solvtuday. 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 Solvtuday (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 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. Saltuday 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 are reasons the name should be Solvtuday to underscore the importance of not only salt's implications, but solving problems, and making and finding 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 law(l) (sometimes misunderstood or misapplied), and done so successfully, would certainly be a beneficial practice.

(Solvtuday or Saltuday) Some recall the recommended name of Saltuday for the Saturday. Why the adjustment recommendation to Solvtuday? For one thing, keeping the abbreviation Slt should allay concerns over forgetting the importance of using salt on this day, which if spelled as it sounds would be solt. Merely inserting the ‘v’ before the ‘t’ introduces another important concept and reminder in our society. Men in the family aren’t required by God to attend church every weekend, but the first and third weekends are highly encouraged. Now we’re discussing the second and fourth weekends, the longer ones. Men providing for a family in a material way often have many concerns weighing on their minds, and are responsible for both spiritual and material needs. God has provided a world that can be beautiful in both spiritual and material aspects. They also should become good problem-solvers, and this also can be both spiritually and materially, therefore “Solv” reminds to address concerns before they become larger. The other important concept, however, relates to “VT” as an abbreviation for a popular trading paper, which lists personal articles to buy, sell, or trade in a certain area or region. Rather than always buying new things, often something used but in good condition will serve a necessary purpose for the family or a family member, and at a reduced cost. Occasionally taking family to look for something that’s needed, or perhaps attending an auction or sale of some sort, underscores the importance in society of properly assessing the material value of various sorts of things, which helps an economy to continue thriving, something not to be taken lightly. Many problems can surface if buying, selling, and trading drops off substantially in communities, but this concern could come and go with time. For the man or breadwinner, when there is no such need or inclination, he may wish to attend church with the rest of the family, and perhaps help with solving family issues, resolving conflict and maintaining peace and love may at least be an occasional topic discussed on this day. Of course, most if not all family members could still have an upbuilding routine of attending church on this day, discerning God’s will for them, realizing this to be typically one part of the day in an extended four-day stretch!.

Fawnday then Fanday (Fwn/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 Psalmday, 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 Solvtuday, sports venues in general could be preferred on this eighth day of the week, as also the four-day weekend Pleadday, Fanday and Sonaday, 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 Sonaday brings a cleansing 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 Lunarday, 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 Jehovahz, And I receive no justice from God’? 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Jehovahz, 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 Jehovahz will regain power. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary; They will walk and not tire out.” 

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

Winit5to9, ref. W0860-64 (with some additions)

Theme: Issue of Good Government

In the early years of our country, before the United States became the United States, conventions were called among bright men, even royalty, who came to this land for a new life, a better life, more free, despite initial hardships. Several important colonies had already been well-established, and had already set boundaries for themselves. Work would begin on what would be called “The Articles of  Confederation”, a way for the various colonies or states to govern themselves and govern together.

Many sound principles would come to be established and considered integral to the Articles, whether written in the primary document, or as associated laws and bylaws, or essential founding principles of good government, but in time enhanced understanding (of these) would prove necessary. The Declaration of Independence drew attention to the oppressive British rule they were facing back then, not to be misunderstood, and their intent for God-blessed freedom—not, again NOT freedom from God, but rather for God-blessed freedom. Now the British were not always abiding by recognized standards of war, violating treaties of war engagement.

Power Misapplied

Last episode, on recounting the history of the United States of America, we left off with the British then violating recognized standards of war engagement. Such standards were agreed upon by civilized countries for a God-blessed result with limited casualties, so at the time they were acting more like Babylon the Great.

Even today, so-called political maneuverings that are not political at all, rather false, fraudulent, disregarding of God and Christ, more accurately, apolitical or anti-political, have been practiced.

Some time ago, technology buffs began work with imagery on a three-dimensional world, many envisioning good utilization. This even became a basis for virtual reality. However, ethical safeguards began to be side-stepped, and now the internet and even television is flooded with video footage that appears to be just as real as the real thing, (but) it is digital and virtual, and has been effectively used to mislead the public. If used at all, not only should these video clips or images be identified, but there should be some indication whether they meet certain ethical standards unrelated to normal content. So it is clear, that while power can be used well, it can also be misused.

War, Peace, Constitution, Federalist Papers

Picking up with America’s history and the fledgling people’s war against British rule, it was God they looked to for power and help. And He gave it to them. They would emerge victorious, and as with most any war, which God does not prefer, you hope all sides come away with renewed awareness of God’s justice and power to effect good, to reprove haughtiness, and promote right thinking for greater peace. But what had taken place, and after, caused astute ones of the country to realize that the Articles, as helpful as they were, were not enough to hold the States together. Greater involvement and structure on a federal level were needed for more stability and unity to be achieved.

Another convention was called, and with God’s blessing over several months, another founding document, the U.S. Constitution, was born. But how to present it to the public? Leading proponents of the Constitution, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, among our Founding Father, set about exploring various themes on government in a series of articles presented to New Yorkers called the Federalist Papers. The original 66 would prove to have all the earmarks of genuine truth, inspired of God’s spirit. And they would have wide support for acceptance of the Constitution. Contrary to the notions of some, the Framers of the New Constitution were not abandoning all the work and benefit that went into the Articles, still applying directly or in principle.

New Light, Articles and Constitution

We left off last episode with the framing of the Constitution, and the continued significance of the work done on the Articles of Confederation. With regard to the latter, comparisons have been made to the Law of God found in Exodus through Deuteronomy of the Bible. Jesus or Joshalz state in his famous Sermon: “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill, or to complete, perfect.” In that case, his teachings made it possible to see and understand that Law in new light. For instance, some severe, even capital, punishments could now be seen as spiritual rather than physical, as an excommunication of sorts, arousing repentance from serious wrongdoing and discipline toward correction, still with love. [This would build gratitude for the society made possible by adherence to the Law’s values and standards, which would restore freedom.]

Likewise, the U.S. Constitution upholds high regard for life and the good of citizens and people generally, when adhered to properly. The framers, in seeking a balanced federal government, addressed such things as free and fair elections, checks and balances in the power of government, a balance in Congressional power between larger states and smaller ones, and a Bill of Rights. [Thus the purpose of the new Constitution was to change the Articles to strengthen the central or federal government that proved too weak by the Articles alone for government to function as it should, and thereby promoting greater unity. The official name of the Articles was, after all, Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union.]

God’s Guidance on Good Government

Last episode we ended with the good of the U.S.Consitution. God’s spirit guided the Framers in seeking a balanced federal government, addressing such things as free and fair elections, checks and balances in the power of government, a balance in Legislative power between larger states and smaller ones, and a Bill of Rights. The American people should elect their highest officials, freely and fairly, with safeguards against unlawful interference, which if violated, needs attention. Executive power could be checked by legislative and judicial authority. Having two Congressional bodies allows larger, more populous states to have more influence in the House, with more members, while smaller states carry equal force in the Senate. There is evidence, however, that the original number of senators was three, not two, making possible a clear state vote on any issue—thus greater effectiveness. And the Bill of Rights clarifies personal protections under the Law.

With respect for the Kingdom of God and Holy spirit, respecting God’s word and wisdom understood correctly, in a reasonable and balanced way, and with what God had already done for a new heavenly rulership and new earth, the Constitution and other founding documents have made possible meeting the needs of society in a God-blessed way, but we need fully adhere to it, and stand up to attempted violations. In this way, the promise of God for good government and a blessed society can be realized.

This is Mark Allen Campbell

3 PARTY PROPOSAL

Due to recent surging and proven interest in Independent or Harmonley party concepts and the concept itself of having 3 parties represented in Congress, to make possible greater consideration and passage of proper bills to benefit the United States of America, I as Mark Campbell/Michael Camelangemy do make the following proposal:

It is understood that there are some members of the Republican and Democratic parties, who have gone public in support of the aforementioned Independent or Harmonley party general points, or the formation of the Harmonley party itself, being acknowledged for promotion of national and international stability, and adherence to Constitutional provisions, as explained on my website http(s)://www.findlifeandsee.com and on http(s)://www.findlife.com 

who are among many realizing the benefits that could accrue from either having Harmonley supporters or party members among the members of Congress, particularly noteworthy in the Senate, where the U.S. Constitution in print, but not the founding bylaws of the United States, makes mention of two senators being selected to represent each state in the Senate. The number of Senators for the states has made State decisions as representing each state challenging, as too often there may be a split among the two members. Many others agreed that there is something wrong with the number being 2, and at least a few that it was quite possible that the original number for Senators from each state was actually 3, this normally making it impossible for split decisions among state Senators, and allowing for more productive activity among these highly respected members of Congress. More evidence for this conclusion is in the aims of the Founders, that many Senate decisions be based on the decisions of States and not just the individual members. In such case, how could they possibly have set it up with just 2 Senators per state? There has been word that an Original Constitution on display has been found to indicate "3" Senators being elected for each state rather than 2! 

It is also of note that states being fully represented as either Republican or Democrat do usually nevertheless have many citizens ascribing to the other party, and therefore without much representation in that way in Congress. Also, many party members have begun changing somewhat, coming closer together in thinking so that the traditional divide is not as it once was. Therefore one possible approach being here recommended for consideration is, for the purpose of rectifying a system in Congress that has not been working as it was intended to work, due to the long-time establishment of a largely two-party arrangement, although a third party has long been permitted yet little utilized, that fresh perspectives be generated as to the meaning and intent of each party, all respectful of the Creator God, mentioned by the Founders, with a possible inclusion of a new Independent party named "Harmonley" with it's emphasis on respect among all 3 parties and additional divinely-inspired principles assisting all to prove successful in passing beneficial legislation for the Nation and-or beyond. In this light, there could be much support for a state ending up with a Senator representing each party being chosen/elected, and now recommending that one for each be elected, adding stability to this 3 party proposal, as there may likewise be three sorts of men, heeding God, a reason for such an almost equal divide in politics traditionally among 2 parties. The U.S. Constitution was established when there were yet no separate party groups, and the difficulties inherent in a two-party system within the framework of the Constitution were not anticipated. As for debate regarding a fourth party, much can be said further in defense of 3; Even the Bible's use of "one" from Hebrew actually means "three in one" or "three as one", and can be applied figuratively, 'in agreement'.

Also, the preamble to the U.S. Constitution additionally serves as a basis for this proposal, as it outlines the purpose of the Constitution itself, among other things to 'establish Justice', 'insure domestic Tranquility', and 'promote the general welfare' which we realize was intended to be accomplished more successfully with application of divinely-inspired wisdom. An amendment is being proposed, backed by many Senate members, to allow for a third member choice for further representation by each state of the Union, an official amendment to the U.S. Constitution as being permissible by the Constitution itself in very special circumstances such as this, the recommendation involving the voting selection by the public of one candidate for the Senate from among the 3 different parties, as has traditionally been possible, though not as commonly known or understood, to fill the now the proposed 3 seats, rather than the 2 seat​s, and with a 2 out of 3 vote understood to be permissibly affirmative among the 3, acknowledging though the preference of unanimity, in the Senate, and for the House, to fill the appropriate number by state. In fact, I only propose this with an official understanding that by doing so I am not in violation of my duty as rightful President of the United States, having given affirmation of this duty to 'preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.' I thus stand by my confidence that the proposal as presented below is in agreement with a President's affirmation of duty and authority, and the U.S. Constitution itself. It is also of note that there is mention in the Constitution of the need for a 2/3 majority among the states regarding special votes, sensible with 3 state seats, but again with only 2 seats, a state may have no vote if divided.

Regarding this proposal, then, an individual from among 3 parties may be voted for and lawfully elected by the public, you needn't belong to the same party to believe a particular candidate is best suited for that upcoming election term. This is in the belief that all three parties, Republican, Democratic, and Harmonley, can have aligned important priorities and objectives that all agree with the Founders intent respecting God and regarding good government, the genuine Republic that the U.S. Constitution and other founding inspired documents advance as the most capable to meet pressing needs. It is also being recommended for future election procedure, that up to a total of 3 candidates running for U.S. President be chosen if a lawful party governing body exists, in harmony with lawful public primaries/preference, to continue as candidates leading to each election year's general election, thus up to 9 candidates, or again 3 per post or party, for the selection of a U.S. President, as well as perhaps the 3 posts being elected to represent the Senate for each state, and the appropriate number of seats per state for the House. It is also being strongly recommended that each individual indicate or vote for just one candidate, the one that they most prefer, for each of the three posts. In the House, it may be that the total number of members may be representative of the balance of votes among the three parties, there being a mix, which should continue to take place as the top voted candidates are elected, according to the number for each state. 

It should also be understood that highly recommended is the practice of elected members of Congress in their duty upon election, voting on bills or other legislative action according to their individual consciences before God and as members of their party, in most if not all instances, rather than being demanded to vote along party lines, which is in no way recommended in or by the U.S. Constitution. Strong assertions could be made by a party to indicate why they wish members to vote a certain way on an issue, but then each one answers ultimately to God for the vote that may have important implications for the nation as a whole, the state they represent, and many citizens throughout. This works when such ones relate to the Creator God (as referred to in both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, among other founding documents), and gain good judgement, are well-rounded, able to get along with and discuss matters and debate with other members of Congress, and arrive at conclusions founded on truth, understanding, and good virtue, in agreement with divine law(l) and the best interests of all. This proposition acknowledges the stifling of good initiatives that has concerned many in the current arrangement, and that this adjustment, this amendment to the U.S. Constitution will serve to bring greater honor to the purpose of the Constitution itself, to demonstrate the greater effectiveness worthy of such an inspiring document and institution as the United States, whose foundings were blessed by God, were and are indeed intended to obtain and maintain, in the furthering or accomplishment of the better and more perfect Union that the Founders sought to establish.

---Michael Camelangemy (Mark Campbell)

FOUR PARTY (3-4) PROPOSAL

(1) Due to recent surging and proven interest in Independent or Harmonley party concepts and the concept itself of having more than 2 parties represented in Congress, to make possible greater consideration and passage of proper bills to benefit the United States of America, I as Mark Campbell/Michael Camelangemy do make the following proposal:

(2) It is understood that there are some members of the Republican and Democratic parties, who have gone public in support of the aforementioned Independent or Harmonley party general points, or the formation of the Harmonley party itself, being acknowledged for promotion of national and international stability, and adherence to Constitutional provisions, as explained on my website http(s)://www.findlifeandsee.com and on http(s)://www.findlife.com 

who are among many realizing the benefits that could accrue from either having Harmonley supporters or party members among the members of Congress, particularly noteworthy in the Senate, where recent versions of the U.S. Constitution in print, but not the founding bylaws of the United States, make mention of the number of senators being selected to represent each state in the Senate as two. This number of Senators for the states has made State decisions as representing each state challenging, as too often there may be a split among the two members. 

(3) Many others agreed that there is something wrong with the number being 2, and at least a few that it was quite possible that the original number for Senators from each state was actually 3, this normally making it impossible for split decisions among state Senators, and allowing for more productive activity among these highly respected members of Congress. More evidence for this conclusion is in the aims of the Founders, that many Senate decisions be based on the decisions of States and not just the individual members. In such case, and with all the care that we know wisely went into matters of government such as this, how could they possibly have set it up with just 2 Senators per state? There has been word that an Original Constitution on display has been found to indicate "3" Senators being elected for each state rather than “2”! 

(4) It is also of note that states being fully represented as either Republican or Democrat do usually nevertheless have many citizens ascribing to the other party, and therefore without as much representation in that way in Congress. Also, many party members have begun changing somewhat, coming closer together in thinking so that the traditional divide is not as it once was. Therefore one possible approach being here recommended for consideration is, for the purpose of rectifying a system in Congress that has not been working as it was intended to work, due to the long-time establishment of a largely two-party arrangement, although a third party has long been permitted yet little utilized, that fresh perspectives be generated as to the meaning and intent of each party, all respectful of the Creator God, mentioned by the Founders, with a possible inclusion of a new Independent party named "Harmonley" with it's emphasis on respect among all parties and additional divinely-inspired principles assisting all to prove successful in passing beneficial legislation for the Nation and-or beyond. In further reflection upon the natural God-given differences, not false but true and cooperative, we’ve come to understand among people, it could very well be that one more party would be most appropriate, to make four, just as 12 common groupings respecting God have been combined into groups of threes, making four common groups altogether.

(5) In this light, there could be much support for a state ending up with Senators representing three of the four parties often being chosen/elected, depending on support for each within that state, adding stability to this 3 or 4 party proposal, again as there may likewise be relatively four combined sorts of men, from twelve groups altogether, a reason for such an almost equal divide sometimes in politics traditionally with just the 2 parties. The U.S. Constitution was established when there were yet no separate party groups, and the difficulties inherent in a two-party system within the framework of the Constitution were not anticipated. Now this notion regarding a fourth party can be understood from the standpoint of four groups of three’s. This is noteworthy since the Bible's use of "one" from Hebrew actually means "three in one" or "three as one", and can be applied figuratively, 'in agreement'. Thus a piece of legislation that should reasonably be passed might not have the difficulty it would have had previously, while concern should be that majorities of all parties find agreement.

(6) Also, the preamble to the U.S. Constitution additionally serves as a basis for this proposal, as it outlines the purpose of the Constitution itself, among other things to 'establish Justice', 'insure domestic Tranquility', and 'promote the general welfare' which we realize was intended to be accomplished more successfully with application of divinely-inspired wisdom. An amendment is being proposed, backed by many Senate members, to allow for a third member choice for further representation by each state of the Union, an official amendment to the U.S. Constitution as being permissible by the Constitution itself in very special circumstances such as this, the recommendation involving the voting selection by the public of one candidate for the Senate from among the now four(4) different parties, as has traditionally been possible, though not as commonly known or understood, to fill the now proposed three(3) seats [not four(4)], rather than the two(2) seat​s, and with a 2 out of 3 vote understood to be permissibly affirmative among the 3, acknowledging though the preference of unanimity, in the Senate, and for the House, to fill the appropriate number by state. In fact, I only propose this with an official understanding that by doing so I am not in violation of my duty as rightful President of the United States, having given affirmation of this duty to 'preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.' I thus stand by my confidence that the proposal as presented below is in agreement with a President's affirmation of duty and authority, and the U.S. Constitution itself, along with evidence that the original Constitution likely contained the number three(3) and not two(2). It is also of note that there is mention in the Constitution of the need for a 2/3 majority among the states regarding special votes, sensible with three(3) state seats, but again with only two(2) seats, a state may have no vote if divided among them.

(7) Regarding this proposal, then, an individual from among four(4) parties may be voted for and lawfully elected by the public, you needn't belong to the same party to believe a particular candidate is best suited for that upcoming election term. This is in the belief that all four parties, Republican, Democratic, Harmonley, and one other, can have aligned important priorities and objectives that all agree with the Founders intent respecting God and regarding good government, the genuine Republic that the U.S. Constitution and other founding inspired documents advance as the most capable to meet pressing needs. If it seems that Republicans have been somewhat divided and Democrats have been somewhat divided, it may be that Harmonley supporters among Republicans and Harmonley supporters among Democrats could largely produce the two additional parties, with just the need to clearly articulate or define the God-given and cooperative differences among them that do not interfere with finding agreement on good legislation for the American people and beyond. Just as the addition of a third party was seen as making possible greater accomplishment, so the fourth party, situated properly, could contribute to greater clarity on issues and improvement in passage of good legislation.

(8) As regards a U.S. President, with this understanding, we would hope in one that seeks to bring parties together in cooperation, upholding the unity of the United States. It is thus being recommended for future election procedure, that eventually up to a total of 3 candidates running for U.S. President be determined per party, in harmony with lawful public voting primaries/preference, as more prominent candidates leading to each election year's general election, thus up to 12 candidates, or again 3 per party, which could reveal one each and then one for the selection of a U.S. President, as well as perhaps the 3 posts being elected to represent the Senate for each state, and the appropriate number of seats per state for the House. It is also being strongly recommended that each individual indicate or vote for just one candidate, the one that they most prefer, for each of the three posts. In the House, it may be that the total number of members may be representative of the balance of votes among the four parties, there being a mix, which should continue to take place as the top voted candidates are elected, according to the number for each state. 

(9) It should also be understood that highly recommended is the practice of elected members of Congress in their duty upon election, regarding bills or other legislative action, voting according to their individual consciences before God and as members of their party, in most if not all instances, rather than being demanded to vote along party lines, which is in no way recommended in or by the U.S. Constitution. Strong assertions could be made by a party to indicate why they wish members to vote a certain way on an issue, but then each one answers ultimately to God and to the American people for the vote that may have important implications for the nation as a whole and the world, the state they represent, and many citizens throughout. This works when such ones relate to the Creator God (as referred to in both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, among other founding documents), and gain good judgement, are well-rounded, able to get along with and discuss matters and debate with other members of Congress, and arrive at conclusions founded on truth, understanding, and good virtue, in agreement with divine law(l) and the best interests of all. This proposition acknowledges the stifling of good initiatives that has concerned many in the current arrangement, and that this adjustment, this amendment to the U.S. Constitution will serve to bring greater honor to the purpose of the Constitution itself, to demonstrate the greater effectiveness worthy of such an inspiring document and institution as the United States, whose foundings were blessed by God, were and are indeed intended to obtain and maintain, in the furthering or accomplishment of the better and more perfect Union that the Founders sought to establish.

---Michael Camelangemy (Mark Campbell)

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 14:13-18:

"13 Even in laughter the heart may feel pain, And rejoicing may end in grief. 14 The one wrong at heart will reap the results of his ways, But the good man reaps the reward of his dealings. 15 The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step. 16 The wise one is cautious and turns away from evil, But the mischievous one is reckless and overconfident. 17 The one who is quick to anger acts foolishly, But the man who thinks things out is loved less. 18 The naive will inherit foolishness, But the wise are crowned with knowledge."

Prove 14:13 Laughter and rejoicing may not always stem from the heart, or may be half-hearted, and not indicative of true inner joy, part of the fruitage of God's holy spirit. For example, some laughter may be out of harmony with God's love, which "does not rejoice over unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth." (1Cor 13:6). True joy is a deep-seated satisfaction in one's life, not simply displayed by occasional laughing. And may we "hate what is bad," that we not rejoice over harm caused to others, leading to grief or sadness.

"14 The one wrong at heart will reap the results of his ways, But the good man reaps the reward of his dealings."

Prove 14:14 If we would stray from God's direction, we will likely suffer the consequences of the wayward course. God is loving and warns us against the things that could cause us harm--it is foolish to ignore divine counsel. More than an "upright" man, a "good" man even goes beyond what is required, to benefit others, and will be rewarded for his acts of kindness.

"15 The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step."

Prove 14:15 One of the most vital proverbs, a child must eventually learn to examine what he hears, to test whether he is hearing the truth. The shrewd one is foresighted, and ponders the end results of doing or believing something, which may avert disaster. May we overcome any tendency to be naïve. And may we especially be careful to avoid believing religious lies, such as the teaching of hellfire, that could have serious repercussions on our relationships with God and other people. God "IS love", and looks out for the long-term welfare of all people. To a degree, Greek philosophy has contaminated some Christian teachings. According to the Scriptures, while all have a "spirit," only some have an immortal one, not referring to the human soul, which is of flesh, yet may still live forever. (1John 4:8; Ezekiel 18:4; Hebrews 4:12) See the article "Finding Truth" for more details.

"16 The wise one is cautious and turns away from evil, But the mischievous one is reckless and overconfident."

Prove 14:16 Such shrewd pondering mentioned in verse 15 will enable us to be cautious and reject an evil path, "hating what is bad." The mischievous one, however, doesn't ponder the right course. Such a person ignores danger, and pridefully trusts in himself more than God, bringing much trouble upon himself and others.

"17 The one who is quick to anger acts foolishly, But the man who thinks things out is loved less."

Prove 14:17 "Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger." (James 1:19). Seeking to compassionately understand the other's point of view or situation can slow down any rising anger, and we should quickly channel any energy into finding a solution to the problem, or seeking the best way to cope with it. Those who haven't yet learned to act so wisely should turn to God for more wisdom. James chapter 1 says this, verses 5 and 6, GNB: “But if any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously and graciously to all. 6 But when you pray, you must believe and not doubt at all. Whoever doubts is like a wave in the sea that is driven and blown about by the wind.” Look again at the words of verse 5, what is says about God. This is from God’s inspired Word, very truthfully written. We are to believe such words, but it’s okay to want to understand more about things. God gives us good reasons to believe the truthful things He tells us, so that we needn’t doubt or lack faith in God. It is true that sometimes things aren’t taught correctly, but they usually are; Still, focus most importantly on what God’s word and law really says, and Christ’s teachings. Seek and pray to understand things the right way. 

"18 The naive will inherit foolishness, But the shrewd are crowned with knowledge."

Prove 14:18 Believing every word, as in verse 15, causes one to act foolishly, while gaining foresighted shrewdness helps us acquire beneficial knowledge to thwart disaster. Thus, while a young person will tend to be naive to a certain extent, he or she must not remain so. Shrewdness must be acquired--learning to look ahead at the consequences of one's speech and actions--and acting accordingly, in order to avoid prolonged foolishness, which would only lead to trouble. At a reasonable age, parents should encourage their growing youth to learn to become more wise, understanding various aspects of wisdom as described and explained in Proverbs, for instance. Selected lessons from God's word certainly may be shared with the young. However, a detailed study of Proverbs should most likely not be encouraged for those still in their young childhood, learning and developing in other ways, before about age 10. Ultimately, parents or guardians should decide when their child may be encouraged to study such things in depth.

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 14:19-24

"19 Bad people will have to bow down before the good, And the twisted will bow at the gates of the upright. 20 The poor man is less loved even by his neighbors, But many are the friends of the rich person. 21 The one who despises his neighbor sins, But whoever shows compassion to the lowly is happy. 22 Will not those who plot mischief go astray? But those intent on doing good will receive loyal love and faithfulness. 23 There is benefit in every kind of hard work, But mere talk leads to want. 24 The crown of the wise is their wealth; But the foolishness of the devious is only foolishness."

Prove 14:19 Practicers of bad or corruption must one day acknowledge their path is not leading to the happiness they imagined it would, but rather, is leading to spiritual death. They must bow in respect of the good, or upright ones. If their acknowledgement humbles them, becoming repentant of their error, they may in God's mercy find the path of life and the true happiness they were missing.

"20 The poor man is less loved even by his neighbors, But many are the friends of the rich person."

Prove 14:20 Let's look at this from a spiritual standpoint: Spiritually wealthy ones are learning right, loving, peaceable ways and often do gain many friends, whereas those spiritually destitute may not have many. Once again, may we reach out to such ones, if they might respond to receiving loving, spiritual assistance, to look to God and His word for the wisdom and counsel needed (Prove 2:1-6; 3:5-8; James 1:5). Psalm 34:18 says of God, "Jehovahz is close to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit." In imitation of our God, may we willingly aim to help those in need, as the upright woman of Proverbs 31 "extends her palm to the lowly one, And she opens her hands to the poor." (Prove 31:20)

"21 The one who despises his neighbor sins, But whoever shows compassion to the lowly is happy."

Prove 14:21 The poor man of the previous verse really should not normally be "less loved." May our compassion overcome any tendency toward prejudice, which would be sinning. Thus we may maintain true happiness, as mistreatment of others does little to contribute to this. Rather, loving and even praying for others, including "those who persecute you," as Jehoshua instructed in his Sermon on the Mount, may prove to have a good effect on them, as well as ourselves. (Matth 5:44). May we realize that even those practicing bad are often desperately in spiritual need, and who will be there to lovingly help them? If we cannot do it ourselves, can we at least, with godly insight, overlook an offense, and compassionately pray for them to receive needed help? (Prove 19:11). This is not to say that serious violations should merely be overlooked or brushed aside. Depending on the situation, such conduct may need address according to Matthew 18:15-17 and/or brought to the attention of those authorized to provide assistance in some way (1Cori 5:11-13). Nevertheless, such ones with God's help can sincerely repent, genuinely ask forgiveness, and truly mend their ways, paving the way for extended mercy. (1Cori 6:9-11). Serious, but lesser sins may be addressed by following the counsel of Matthew 18:15-17. Minor sins, however, may be a different story. Colossians 3:13-14 says this: "Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovahz freely forgave you, you must also do the same. 14 But besides all these things, clothe yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union." May God reward the love you show!

"22 Will not those who plot mischief go astray? But those intent on doing good will receive loyal love and faithfulness."

Prove 14:22 The rewards are many for those "intent on doing good," rather than plotting mischief! Psalm 18:25 says of God, "With someone loyal you act in loyalty; With the blameless man you deal blamelessly." Thus, such ones receive of God's loyal love and faithfulness, as may be expressed by others. Recall that God "makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God." (Roman 8:28). May we rejoice to receive of God's blessings for pursuing an upright course before Him! On the other hand, how unkind and imprudent, failing to consider the consequences, are those planning to violate right conduct or even harm others! May we NEVER give thought to how we might deliberately ignore God's counsel and pursue a wrongful course, but rather, hope in God's blessing and favor, the rewards of righteousness, as we most certainly CAN learn and hold to God's standards and find prosperity and happiness in doing so!

"23 There is benefit in every kind of hard work, But mere talk leads to want."

Prove 14:23 While planning is beneficial and important, is it not the "hard work" that's needed in order to receive the benefits, actually accomplishing what we've set out to do? Merely talking, without appreciation for the effort necessary for success, brings little benefit. In harmony with this, praising others for their head knowledge, rather than for efforts to use their knowledge for the benefit of others, causes laziness. As ones gain knowledge of beneficial skills, that may for instance contribute to their ability to earn a living, why should they not put that knowledge to work, and practice those skills to benefit others and themselves if it is reasonable to do so? How much wiser and better to put good and beneficial knowledge to work, benefitting both ourselves and others!

"24 The crown of the wise is their wealth; But the foolishness of the devious is only foolishness."

Prove 14:24 Truly wise ones become successful in life, bringing wealth upon themselves and others. This wealth can be both material and spiritual, placing emphasis on one's relationship with God and the blessings of eternal life. However, the skills gained by true wisdom may indeed bring a measure of material wealth, with God's blessing. Still, such ones are typically content with the necessities of life, remaining humbly reliant upon God. Foolish ones rarely apply knowledge skillfully for the benefit of others--most often only rather selfishly for their own benefit. Any material wealth a foolish one may gain is not accompanied by spiritual wealth, and may even be spent in foolishness, lacking God's blessing. May we willingly continue growing in true wisdom, seeking to apply divine knowledge for the everlasting welfare of ourselves and others, cultivating true love for God and our neighbor.

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 14:25-30

"25 A true witness saves lives, But a deceitful one lies with every breath. 26 There is strong confidence in the awe of Jehovahz, And it will be a refuge for His children. 27 The awe of Jehovahz is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death. 28 A multitude of people are a king’s majesty, But a ruler without subjects is ruined. 29 The one who is slow to anger has great discernment, But the impatient one displays his foolishness. 30 A calm heart gives life to the body, But jealousy itself is rotten to the core."

Pro14:25 "Truthful lips will endure forever, but a lying tongue will last for only a moment." says Proverbs 12:19. The testimony of a true witness may more immediately save a life, but also encourages life by honest, truthful speech, and often sharing important truth with others. A deceitful witness, on the other hand, cannot be trusted to speak the truth, or to act in the best interests of others.

"26 There is strong confidence in the fear of Jehovahz, And it will be a refuge for his children."

Pro14:26 The "strong confidence" that comes with the fear or awe of Jehovahz is in Jehovahz himself, rather than in oneself. As Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, a help that is readily found in times of distress." Thus, having this healthy fear of displeasing God, confident in His goodness and power, and lovingly teaching it to one's children, will help the children to find this refuge as well. The importance of such a verse should not be diminished, with God having the greatest power with love, and seeking to please or fearing someone else more can threaten the stability or security of the peaceful world of God’s making. Thus having confidence in God’s mercy and love for all, and knowing how to seek God’s help by praying to Him, the Father, with awareness of the role of God’s Son, are vital.

"27 The fear of Jehovahz is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death."

Pro14:27 As Proverbs 8:13 says, "The fear of Jehovahz means the hating of bad." By seeing the ill consequences of badness, we may come to hate it, steering clear of "the snares of death," and remaining on the path to endless life. Having such fear or awe moves us to share life-giving truth with others, proving this fear to be a "fountain of life." Regarding God's son, Isaiah 11:1-2 says "A twig will grow out of the stump of Jesʹse, And a sprout from his roots will bear fruit. 2 And the spirit of Jehovahz will settle upon him, The spirit of wisdom and of understanding, The spirit of counsel and of mightiness, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovahz." This one sets an example for others, to grow in divine wisdom.

"28 A multitude of people are a king’s majesty, But a ruler without subjects is ruined."

Pro14:28 Proverbs 29:2 says: "When the upright are many, the people rejoice, But when the twisted one rules, the people groan." Thus a king does well to pursue true wisdom and righteousness, with the favor and blessing of God, on himself and his people. Turning from righteousness would bring corruption and be a poor example to his people, who thus may begin to fall into calamity.

"29 The one who is slow to anger has great discernment, But the impatient one displays his foolishness."

Pro14:29 To loyally have patience with others, both insight and discernment are shown to prove beneficial. Discernment enables one to judge properly between things, such as right and wrong, true and false, and so on. This makes it possible to have compassionate insight, seeing the real reasons behind someone's speech, actions, and decisions. If someone gets rude to us just after spilling coffee on his brand new shirt, can we not understand and exercise more patience with the person, being ‘slower to anger’? We have thus discerned the difference between that situation and another. Being impatient often results in "foolishness," and does little to help the situation.

"30 A calm heart gives life to the body, But jealousy itself is rotten to the core."

Pro14:30 One who is patient contributes to calmness of heart, as well as one who seeks to avoid the ravages of jealousy. What is jealousy? It is an unloving comparative spirit against others that seeks to prevent one from receiving anything that gives the impression that s/he is better in some way. This may cause the jealous one to attempt cruel interference along with enjoyment of any stolen honor or possession. The scripture says that jealousy itself is "rotten to the core." We also read, at James 3:16, "For wherever there are jealousy and contentiousness, there will also be disorder and every vile thing." EVERY "VILE," or UNWORTHY THING! Such jealousy does nothing to benefit humanity in any way. It is actually a corrupt form of a good quality--a godly jealousy or zeal to safeguard another from impurity or corruption (2Cori 11:2). May we reject any corrupt inclination, and rather, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." (Romans 12:15). Be sincerely interested in the welfare of others and look to God to bless your own life, to be successful in your own circumstances, doing things the right way, pleasing God.

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 14:31-35:

“31 The one who defrauds the lowly one insults his Maker, But whoever shows compassion to the poor glorifies Him. 32 The twisted one will be brought down by his own wrongdoing, But the upright one will find refuge in his integrity. 33 Wisdom rests quietly in the heart of an understanding person, But among the devious it must make itself known. 34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is disgraceful to a people. 35 The king finds pleasure in a servant who acts with insight, But his fury is against the one who acts shamefully.”

Pro14:31 Christ spoke against injustice and unfair treatment, even commanding his followers to "Stop judging...Stop condemning." Sometimes people sadly keep their distance from a poor person, perhaps not wanting to be seen by others and considered as someone “on their level.” They may be thinking of the popular adage, “Birds of a feather flock together,” or fear others may be thinking that way toward them. A more important Biblical principle, however, might be IMPARTIALITY ("freedom from bias or prejudice"), an aspect of both loyal love and true justice, as Peter stated at Acts 10:34-35: “34 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 him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” Some may mistakenly believe that God typically withholds material benefits from wrongdoers, but this is not necessarily so. Recall Asaph, in Psalm 73, lamented how the ungodly often seem to prosper, saying in verse 12: “Yes, these are the ungodly, who always have it easy. They keep increasing their wealth.” He came to realize, however, as we read in verses 18-19: “18 Surely you place them on slippery ground. You make them fall to their ruin. 19 How suddenly they are devastated! How sudden is their finish as they come to a terrible end!” Yes, even economic hardship can befall almost any person, upright or not. Proverbs 24:16 says “16 For the upright one may fall seven times, and he will get up again, But the ungodly will be made to stumble by calamity.” How fine, then, when we show compassion to the poor, after Jesus' own example! This would include those "poor in spirit," who may be in desperate need of spiritual guidance. While we may appreciate the blessings and benefits of learning godly wisdom, would not God wish for us to unselfishly share it with those we discern could truly appreciate it? Whether poor materially or spiritually, God's son is eager to assist. Notice this, as stated at Psalm 72:12, “12 For he will rescue the poor who cry for help, Also the lowly one and whoever has no helper.” No one should be taking advantage of their plight. For instance, might we be able to diminish the commonality of charging desperate ones exorbitant interest on a loan, perhaps ‘defrauding them,’ just because they don’t have the means or credit to receive a better rate? Recall that even fellow Israelites were to loan to one who became desperate, what they needed, even without additional interest. This is one of the best ways to help someone. Would it not be better in the future, when the economy has stabilized and there are fewer "poor" among us, to consider adjusting our monetary system, to help out the poor, with a temporary low rate, if they must borrow from a financial institution, still while having the means to work off and repay the loan? The government could even step in, matching the low rate to the financial institution for providing a loan with low interest to such a one in genuine need, and in no way squandering the resources. In fact, why couldn't these institutions contribute also by helping in an important way to educate their customers on financial responsibility, and effective budgeting, for instance? Actually, in accord with one of my policies, would it not be worth a reasonable monthly fee to our bank to provide such education and assistance, along with other financial services, even improving the security of the wealth of it's customers? Would not God himself reward those displaying a spirit of kindness toward desperate ones? Perhaps you might think of other ways that the plight of the poor may be taken into consideration. Happily, under the rulership of God’s son, more compassion will be shown to the poor, ‘saving them.’ Psalm 72:13-14 read: “13 He will have pity on the lowly and the poor, And the lives of the poor he will save. 14 From oppression and from violence he will rescue them, And their blood will be precious in his eyes.”

"32 The twisted one will be brought down by his own wrongdoing, But the upright one will find refuge in his integrity."

Pro14:32 Various faithful ones of Bible record demonstrated qualities or aspects of God's dealings with humankind, as well as aspects of Christ's life or personality--not just a few characters, but practically all. At Psalm 57:6 David says “6 They have prepared a net to ensnare my feet; I am bowed down with distress. They have dug a pit ahead of me, But they fell into it themselves.” David was essentially a man of integrity. Firmly holding to God’s right standards benefits and protects us in many ways. This is the course He blesses. Integrity is wholeness or completeness without corruption. We should never choose to act corruptly, out of harmony with God’s laws or ways. May we continually look to Jehovahz for support in pursuing a right course in life, to faithfully endure not uncommon trials, finding and maintaining divine favor, with eternal happiness in view.

"33 Wisdom rests quietly in the heart of an understanding person, But among the devious it must make itself known."

Pro14:33 Of course, "quietly" here does not mean we shouldn't compassionately share divine wisdom with others, to their everlasting benefit! Rather, this indicates that a truly wise person is not a know-it-all, but instead, is humble. Proverbs 1:5 says “5 A wise person listens and takes in more instruction...” An overly proud or morally foolish person often no longer sees the need to listen to others, especially those they consider “beneath” them. James 1:19 says “19 Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” Most persons are going to have some knowledge that we ourselves do not, that we can benefit from. So should one believe he is so smart that he must always do all the talking? Perhaps such a person is lacking understanding in some respects, as true “wisdom rests quietly,” not loudly, in the heart of an understanding one. One not consistently doing right may be seeking his own glory above God’s, and therefore may deem it necessary to make known his own “wisdom” over and above others. May we be careful to humbly acknowledge God’s right to a good reputation, praising His wisdom as found in His divine word, as bringing the greatest satisfaction and spiritual astuteness to man.

"34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is disgraceful to a people."

Pro14:34 May we thus encourage such rightdoing among others, as leading to true success and happiness before God and mankind. Who knows better what we need to make us truly happy than our Maker, God Jehovahz himself? For instance, aren’t we happy to embrace a beloved family member, to have the feeling of touch, along with the other senses? Have you ever had your lower mouth numbed for dental work? How did it feel to touch your chin right afterward? Or, how did it NOT feel? It seems as though your chin is dead, no longer able to feel. Do we appreciate the Creator who Himself placed such sensors over our entire body for our protection and emotional well-being? May we recognize Jehovahz as the giver of “every good gift and every perfect present,” and appreciatively use whatever gifts and talents we have in harmony with His right standards and ways, not sinning disgracefully. (James 1:17). God knows how we tick, and what will lead us to the best life we can enjoy! We thus benefit greatly by adhering carefully to His right and wise guidance, proven true, loving, and correct. May we be mindful of God’s eternal purpose, and live for the joy that is set before us, not only in serving God now, but everlastingly.

"35 The king finds pleasure in a servant who acts with insight, But his fury is against the one who acts shamefully.”

Pro14:35 Acting with insight requires compassion, looking at things from another person’s perspective, seeing beyond the obvious. Proverbs 19:11 says “The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, And it is beauty on his part to overlook an offense.” In this case, understanding why a person was rude to us, for instance, helps us take the action of “overlooking an offense,” letting the offense go, forgetting it. Perhaps they had just spilled coffee on their brand new dress shirt. Understanding this can stir patience with people, smoothing over what could otherwise cause hurt feelings. This is contrasted with acting “shamefully,” or disgracefully, void of thoughtfulness or consideration for others or their feelings. Such insolence upsets the king, whereby he takes pleasure in the empathetic, insightful one. While Jesus or Joshualz Christ is ultimately the king representing Jehovahz, any anger this one displays is under control, looking for ways to assist, even crooked ones! (Isaiah 55:7-9). Why, if the king takes pleasure in one acting with insightful compassion, would not he himself do so? Another translation reads: "The king's favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, but his anger is toward him who acts shamefully." (NASB). May all who would live forever in truly peaceful conditions come to fear God, turning aside from badness, hating shameful conduct. Also, those in authority as kings submitting to Christ's dominion, also taking pleasure in God’s divine wisdom and integrity, may react similarly.

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:1-5:

"1 A mild answer turns away rage, But a harsh word stirs up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise makes good use of knowledge, But the mouth of the stupid blurts out foolishness. 3 The eyes of Jehovoe are everywhere, Watching both the bad and the good. 4 A calm tongue is a tree of life, But twisted speech causes despair. 5 A fool disrespects his father’s discipline, But a prudent person accepts correction."

MILD ANSWER. Pro15:1: How wise! When anger flares, a mild, gentle response can defuse the situation, while a painful or harsh response escalates the problem. A person truly having mildness always prefers a gentle approach in their pattern of life, with a calm heart. While such a one might still become irritated about something, especially serious matters, one with self-control can maintain enough calm to think through the problem or see how to cope with it. We should typically care enough about the other person and his or her feelings to avoid speaking harsh or painful words to this one, even if we're irritated about something. The wise quality of shrewdness enables us to look ahead and see the outcome or consequences of our speech or actions, and avert a disastrous course by making a better decision. (Prove 22:3). The qualities of mildness and self-control are part of the fruitage of God's holy spirit, which we can pray for (Galatians 5:22-23).

"2 The tongue of the wise makes good use of knowledge, But the mouth of the mischievous blurts out foolishness."

GOOD USE OF KNOWLEDGE, GOOD LISTENER! Pro15:2: Even the tongue can put knowledge to good use, benefitting others by our encouraging wise words. The mischievous one, morally, may know the right thing but often won't do it, choosing foolishness which is in his heart. "Out of the heart's abundance the mouth speaks." He needs to humble himself before God, accepting His loving correction. Also, it is good for such a person to realize a purpose to our having two ears and only one mouth. How much better and wiser to become a good LISTENER! We have much to learn from others, and shouldn't usually be a constant barrage of words everywhere we go, or there will often be transgression of speech and lack of consideration for others. In the words of James 1:19: "Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger." And that’s a lesson for all of us, not just some!

"3 The eyes of Jehovahz are everywhere, Watching both the bad and the good."

GOD SEES GOOD WE DO. Pro15:3: Yes, Jehovahz can see both the good and the bad--angels are watching as well. Will we make Jehovahz’s heart glad by practicing what is good? Proverbs 27:11 says "Be wise, my son, and make my heart rejoice, that I may make a reply to the one taunting me." How wise and loving to please Him! Yes, God so appreciates our faithfulness. Also, we are accountable to our Creator--we must answer to Him for what we say and do--and want to live life in a way that honors and respects or appreciates Him.

"4 A calm tongue is a tree of life, But crooked speech causes despair."

WISE TONGUE FOR HEALING. Pro15:4: Literally, "a tongue of healing" uses wisdom aright, to refresh others, helping them find and remain on the road to endless life in peace and happiness. Crooked or corrupt speech brings nothing of value. Another proverb says "the tongue of the wise is a healing..." This reveals how important it is to God that we typically speak in a peaceable, gentle manner, promoting the genuine happiness that God purposes for mankind. James 3:17-18 says "But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, reasonable, ready to obey, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, not hypocritical. 18 Moreover, the fruit of righteousness is sown in peaceful conditions for those who are making peace." Thus to obtain genuine righteousness, or adherence to God's right and loving standards, built on faith that leads to eternal life, a peace-loving heart is necessary, as one desiring to promote true peace with others.

"5 A foolish one disrespects his father’s discipline, But a prudent person accepts correction."

WISE ACCEPT ADVICE. Pro15:5: Once again the foolish one needs to humble himself and listen to God's counsel. The prudent, or wisely foresighted person, looks ahead at the consequences, good or bad, of his decisions and actions, and has learned to appreciate the good that can come from accepting advice and correction. Our ultimate heavenly Father, Jehovahz, offers us advice leading to genuine security and happiness. As He states in Proverbs 1:23,33 "Respond to my reproof. Then I will pour out my spirit for you; I will make my words known to you...33...the one listening to me will dwell in security And be undisturbed by the dread of calamity.”

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:6-10:

"6 In the house of the upright one there is abundant treasure, But the produce of the mischievous one brings him trouble. 7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But not so the heart of the mischievous one. 8 The sacrifice of the ungodly is detestable to Jehovahz, But the prayer of the honest one is a pleasure to Him. 9 Jehovahz detests the way of the ungodly one, But he loves the one who pursues rightdoing. 10 Discipline seems bad to one forsaking the way, But whoever hates reproof (strong correction) will die."

TREASURES OR TROUBLE. Pro15:6: The word "house" can refer to the family of a man and woman, as in Proverbs 14:1, which says "the truly wise woman builds up her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands." The wise woman is not necessarily doing literal carpentry or demolition work, but rather, is building up her family spiritually. Likewise, the upright one builds up his family's spirit, and this results in abundant spiritual treasures in the lives of family members. They live peaceably, and learn to love one another, and their neighbors. The mischievous or ungodly one, on the other hand, may not care completely for the spiritual needs of his family, producing negative traits in others and bringing trouble upon himself. Of course, as one learns from God, cleaning up his life, with help from the Father, he may come to receive both spiritual and material treasures.

"7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But not so the heart of the mischievous one."

SHARING THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE. Prove 15:7: The wise one "does good with knowledge," sharing divine truth with others, strengthening them spiritually, and in practical ways. The mischievous one, who often will not do the right thing, does not love divine truth, and would prefer most often to speak about himself or foolish things. Having something good to share with others, what a delight to do so! Verse 23 of Proverbs 15 says "A man rejoices in giving the right answer, And a word spoken at the right time—how good it is!" It may certainly be considered a gift from God to be able to share something with someone that may prove helpful in some important way in their life--which help they may truly appreciate. May we all see such things as ultimately coming from our loving God and Father, Jehovahz, who "makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God." (Romans 8:28a).

"8 The sacrifice of the mischievous is detestable to Jehovahz, But the prayer of the honest one is a pleasure to Him."

MAKING TIME FOR PRAYER, A DIVINE GIFT. Pro15:8: Jehovahz does not value the so-called sacrifices of those pursuing an evil course, who may give up things or give gifts with a selfish or self-serving motive. At the same time, the sincere prayers of honest, right-hearted ones bring Jehovahz delight. We can all at some time or another get too busy to speak with God as often as we really need to--let's aim that that not be the case, even if it's just a few simple sincere words of thanks or appreciation for a good gift from Him we've happened to stumble upon that day! Just approach Him as ‘your Father’, and express your feelings, reminding yourself that it’s "in Jesus's or Joshualz's name", through the Son, that approach is possible. We may come to express ourselves much like the psalmists, who poured out their hearts to Jehovahz with sincerity and love for Him! David, for instance, realized what a grand privilege it is to dwell with the Most High God, as in the opening verse of Psalm 15: "O Jehovahz, who may be a guest in your tent? Who may reside in your holy mountain?" May we likewise appreciate our loving God, and do what we can to ever remain in His favor, helping others to do so as well!

"9 Jehovahz detests the way of the mischievous one, But he loves the one who pursues righteousness."

GOD LOVES THOSE PURSUING HIS WAY. Pro15:9: Jehovahz does not approve of the self-centered way of one practicing badness, but loves and blesses the one "pursuing righteousness," or seeking adherence to His laws and standards. Such righteousness is the framework of a happy and successful life and family, with eternal life in view. Jesus or Joshualz showed the importance of this, when discussing God's ability to care for our needs. In Matthew 6:33 this one concludes: "Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and His [God's] righteousness (integrity to His standards), and all these other things will be added to you." Seeking first the Kingdom often involves making sacrifices in pursuit of the will of God. While this can please Jehovahz well, it only does so if we are at the same time practicing what is right--a sacrifice should never take the place of obedience to God. As Samuel once said, "Look! To obey is better than a sacrifice. To pay attention than the fat of rams!" While Jesus and James teach us that Jehovahz is "very tender in affection and merciful," still we should never presume upon God's mercy, lacking appreciation. Rather, as the second verse of Psalm 15 begins to describe the kind of person who may dwell with the Most High: "The one who is walking faultlessly, Practicing what is right And speaking the truth in his heart." These are among the vital aspects of one "pursuing righteousness," and pleasing the true God, Jehovahz.

"10 Discipline seems bad to one forsaking the way, But whoever hates reproof (strong correction) will die."

LOVING DISCIPLINE, CORRECTION TO BE VALUED. Pro15:10: What an important lesson! The footnote says this could be: "Discipline seems 'severe' to one forsaking the way." Such a person views discipline as harsh, when it is normally given with love, seeking to lovingly and patiently guide and correct a person or child. Let's make sure any discipline we offer follows the Scriptural pattern, firm for what's right, being "slow to anger", remaining calm if possible, with understanding, wanting the person or child to see love as the motive behind the correction, as Jesus/Joshualz did with his disciples, using punishment only when necessary, and the motive and lesson(s) being made clear. For the receiver, Hebrews 12:5-6 exhorts: "5...“My son, do not belittle the discipline from Jehovahz, nor give up when you are corrected by him; 6 for those whom Jehovahz loves he disciplines, in fact, he scourges every one whom he receives as a son.”

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:11-14:

"11 The Grave and the place of destruction are in full view of Jehovahz. How much more so the hearts of men! 12 The scoffer does not love the one correcting him. He will not consult the wise. 13 A joyful heart makes for a cheerful countenance, But heartache crushes the spirit. 14 The understanding heart seeks knowledge, But the mouth of the mischievous feeds on foolishness."

GOD'S LONGING. (Pro15:11) How much more Jehovahz is interested in our hearts--our spirituality, our knowledge and personality along with our affections, desires, and goals, the way we deal with others, and our relationships with friends and loved ones. Jehovahz wants our hearts to be stirred by His great love for us, to love Him and others in return. We are reminded here that He is fully aware of those who have lost their life in the current system, especially in an unjust way, and He longs to restore them to life in His new world of peace and righteousness! Regarding this time and God's yearning or "longing" to restore life, Job says at Job 14:15, "You will call, and I will answer you. You will long for the work of your hands."

"12 The scoffer does not love the one correcting him. He will not consult the wise."

SEE EVIDENCE OF GOD'S LOVE. (Pro15:12) The scoffer disregards God's law, and truth which eminates from the "God of truth," Jehovahz. John 3:20 says "For whoever practices vile things hates the light and does not come to the light, so that his works may not be reproved." One not appreciating the good in others cannot be truly happy, viewing negatively many beautiful things from God. May they see the evidence of God's love in creation, and be moved to repent of such a critical spirit, finding joy in life's gifts and loving, peaceable dealings with one another. By Scriptures such as this one, many may perhaps see the error of their way and come to appreciate loving correction from others before it leads to more unhappy consequences.

"13 A joyful heart makes for a cheerful countenance, But heartache crushes the spirit."

SEEK MORE JOY. (Pro15:13) Hopefully, we can maintain a joyful heart, appreciating spiritual things and God's love for us, having many reasons to love God and others as ourselves, following what Jesus/Jehoshua called the two greatest commandments of the God's Law. (Matth 22:37-39). If we must face heartache, however, may we rely on God, whom David says "will not reject" a heart "broken and crushed," and whom Paul called "the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our trials so that we may be able to comfort others..." (Psalm 51:17; 2Cori 1:3-4) JOY itself is among the fruits of God's spirit, so we may pray for more of it, as He tends to give His spirit to those asking Him, and to those "obeying Him as ruler." (Luke 11:13; Acts 5:32).

"14 The understanding heart seeks knowledge, But the mouth of the mischievous feeds on foolishness."

‘REJOICE WITH THE TRUTH’. (Pro15:14) True understanding is empathetic, and enables us to see how all the pieces fit together of something, to make the whole. When we have a heart of understanding, we are wise to seek an understanding of divine knowledge, to know well the course of spirituality, as well as knowledge of things that enrich our lives, enhancing our ability to grow and to know and love others more. The morally foolish have little interest in such things, often ignoring what they know to be right. They feed on foolish things rather than spiritual truths, or truly beneficial knowledge. This is not in harmony with the spirit of true godlove, which 1Corinthians 13:6 says "does not rejoice over wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth."

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:15-17:

"15 All the days of the afflicted one are bad, But the one with a cheerful heart has a continual feast. 16 Better is a little in the fear of Jehovahz Than great wealth along with anxiety. 17 Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love Than a fattened bull where there is hatred."

COMBATING PESSIMISM. Pro15:15 The "afflicted one" could take a negative, or pessimistic, view on life, and may therefore be unhappy no matter what good comes his way. One with a "cheerful heart," on the other hand, sees and appreciates the good things in life, is often thankful to God for such gifts, and therefore "has a continual feast." Nowadays there may be emotional or even biological imbalances with some taking a negative view--correcting one's thinking can be helpful for many. Some may be overly critical of others or even themselves, perhaps even being unduly suspicious of others' motives. They may be having a hard time forgiving or overcoming their own past failings, and are viewing others in a similar way. We should remember that Jehovahz "is good and ready to forgive." (Psalm 86:5). Also, Psalm 130:4-5 says "If errors were what you watch, O Joez, O Jehovahz, then who could stand? 4 For with you there is true forgiveness, So that you may be (respectfully) feared." May such ones continue trusting in God's love and mercy, gaining in the fear of God, hating badness, looking to Jehovahz for His support and blessing as regards their everlasting welfare and happiness, and that of others.

16 Better is a little in the fear of Jehovahz Than great wealth along with anxiety. 17 Better is a dish of vegetables where there is love Than a fattened bull where there is hatred."

SAFEGUARD PEACE AND LOVE WITH GODLY FEAR. Pro15:16-17 Great material wealth, or even great knowledge, can bring much anxiety, or stress, depending largely on one's reliance on God or failure to do so. We can pray to God for help to allay anxiety, relying on Him for His peace (Phili 4:6-7). It is possible to have money and wisdom and serve God faithfully, with due caution to continue relying on God, trusting Him. The proverb acknowledges the importance of cultivating godly fear—a high regard for Him and His power that moves us to seek never to displease Him--along with the spirit of contentment. Focusing too much on money or worshiping it, or even boasting of one's knowledge, may bring contention and hatred into our family--how important to maintain the right perspective, keeping such things in their place, and safeguard more important things, such as our love for one another! Let's find ways to safeguard the peace among all men, if possible, but especially among those willing to serve God faithfully, as in our family and among our friends. The Scriptures place a high value on safeguarding such peace among one another, and it is God’s will for all mankind (ROMans 12:18; MATth 5:23-24; 2PEter 3:9).

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:18-25:

"18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But one who is slow to anger calms a quarrel. 19 The way of the lazy one is like a hedge of thorns, But the path of the honest is like a level highway. 20 A wise son makes his father rejoice, But a mischievous man despises his mother. 21 Foolishness is a joy to one lacking good sense, But the man of discernment walks straight ahead. 22 Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers. 23 A man rejoices in giving the right answer, And a word spoken at the right time—how good it is! 24 The path of life leads upward to one with insight, To turn him away from the Grave below. 25 Jehovahz will tear down the house of the haughty, But he will preserve the boundary of the widow."

CALM TENSIONS, SEEKING PEACE. Pro 15:18 As James 1:19 says, "everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger." For the world to sustain peace in the future, we all must learn not to be "hot-tempered," but to treasure Christian mildness and slowness to anger, or patience. Christian mildness is a gentleness of spirit that should pervade our life throughout each day, affecting all we say and do. It is a gentle manner, that is sensitive to the ideas and feelings of others, not wanting to hurt them but rather help and heal. Anyone impatient and quick to anger threatens true peace among humans, 'stirring up strife.' We should learn to quickly recognize when we are beginning to be agitated by something--that is the time to act to think through the situation, seeking to fix the problem, find a solution, or see how to cope with it until we can. Try not to get to the point of angry words escalating tension with another dear person. However, serious sin committed against us may rightly cause hurt or angry feelings. God's word says, at Ephesians 4:26, "Be [agitated] but do not sin; do not let the sun set while you are still angry." We should resolve the matter in a God-approved way. Especially among true Christians, who are not seriously sinning against one another, we should be "forgiving one another freely even if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Just as Jehovahz freely forgave you, you must also do the same. But besides all these things, clothe yourselves with godlove, for it is a perfect bond of union." With true love and patience, we can often 'calm a quarrel,' seeking true peace with others in harmony with God's lawls and guidance for us. We should tend to patiently react to any temper of others with a gentle, calming response, thus defusing an otherwise hurtful or irritating conversation. (Prove 15:1).

"19 The way of the lazy one is like a hedge of thorns, But the path of the upright is like a level highway."

BECOME DILIGENT, UPRIGHT. Pro 15:19 A lazy person tends to focus on or imagine the difficulties and thorny problems in situations and does not want to get involved, thus excusing his inactivity. Also, the inactivity itself, not addressing real needs properly, may lead to more ‘thorny’ problems for himself. Such laziness is often brought on by the idea that knowledge by itself is somehow an accomplishment, an end goal. Rather, it is effort or actually using such knowledge for a beneficial purpose, to help other people, the community or society in some way, that should be praised and encouraged. And this is one of the best ways of overcoming a pattern of laziness that may have developed. A diligent upright person, on the other hand, has learned how to cope with most problems, trusting God's help in good faith, while focusing on the rewards of accomplishment--to such ones the path is smooth, "like a level highway."

"20 A wise son makes his father rejoice, But a mischievous man despises his mother."

HELP YOUTHS GAIN UNDERSTANDING. Pro 15:20 How important to seek to correct a child going morally astray, to help him or her become wise, as godly insight shows such a one is actually 'despising his own mother.' This one is resentful of his own mother's correction, no matter how loving it may be offered. May parents ensure their discipline is rendered with genuine love, in imitation of the way Christ corrected his disciples, offering illustrations and stories to teach important lessons. We can get to know these teachings and share them with our children, helping them to understand the way of true Christianity. Still, the child needs to come to both understand and appreciate such loving guidance and instruction. Helping him or her gain understanding in matters of life and spirituality will go a long way in helping him appreciate counsel. Proverbs 17:10 says "A rebuke makes a deeper impression on one having understanding than striking a mischievous person a hundred times."

"21 Foolishness is a joy to one lacking good sense, But the man of discernment walks straight ahead."

YOUTHS TO GAIN SHREWDNESS, DISCERNMENT. Pro 15:21 Foolishness in the Scriptures is clearly a negative trait, causing one to "go astray," even "die" for lack of discipline. (PROve 5:23). Remaining naïve will result in foolishness, and it also comes out in one who is impatient (Prove 14:18, 29). Thus young ones need to be taught to look ahead with foresighted shrewdness at the consequences of their speech and actions, and to act accordingly to steer away from badness, and its resulting troubles, problems, and grief. This would include the dire consequences of being impatient, running ahead of Jehovahz rather than waiting on Him to provide for our needs and wants, or desires. We could impatiently let go of God's loyal love, leading to treachery and spiritual ruin. Let God satisfy us, as we are "content with the present things," until we reach our goals--for instance, a loyal Christian marriage partner, most beneficially obtained by a true engagement as meant for that purpose. Foolishness is also here contrasted with discernment, to see true from false, and right from wrong. And with shrewdness, we're better able to choose what we believe more carefully. Proverbs 14:15 says "The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step." May we avoid merely believing everything strangers may say, but rather learn to examine their words, checking facts if necessary, to accept what is true, right, good and wise. Thus we may walk straight ahead, successfully.

"22 Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers."

CONSULTING OTHERS. Pro 15:22 A wise person "listens and takes in more instruction." (PROve 1:5). Thus may we be humble, as truly wise persons are, considering others superior to us. They have gifts and talents we may not possess, and may have knowledge to share of which we do not know. May we consult especially with ones affected or impacted by our decisions, taking their points of view into consideration, benefitting from their advice.

"23 A man rejoices in giving the right answer, And a word spoken at the right time—how good it is!"

TIMELY ENCOURAGEMENT. Pro 15:23 May we delight in words spoken "at the right time," and with joy to seek to give the right answer to one in genuine need or peril. This, of course, is one of the treasured benefits of growing in true divine wisdom and godlove. We become better able to lovingly share with others timely encouragement, giving them what they need and when they need it. May we continue to absorb divine instruction from our loving Father, Jehovahz, through His precious divine gift--God's word.

"24 The path of life leads upward to one with insight, To turn him away from the Grave below. 25 Jehovahz will tear down the house of the haughty, But he will preserve the boundary of the widow."

TREASURE GOD'S ELEVATED WAYS, HUMILITY. Pro 15:24-25 God's ways are elevated above mere human ideas and thinking. God told the wayward nation of Israel, at Isaiah 55:8-9: "“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, And your ways are not my ways,” declares Jehovahz. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So my ways are higher than your ways And my thoughts than your thoughts." May we benefit from God's elevated thinking as we learn to think as He does. Remember, Jesus/Joshualz once strongly corrected Peter for thinking, 'not God's thoughts, but those of men,' which at the time implied a threat to his course of faithfulness. (Matth 16:23). Peter was soon helped through a vision to maintain his own humble respect for Christ. May we always let God's word trump mere human ideas, even if it means we may be 'proved a liar.' (ROMans 3:4). This takes honesty and humility before God, to acknowledge a mistake, but will bring God's favor and blessing. Those arrogant, or haughty in spirit, refusing to humble themselves before God, and whose arrogance gravely threatens the fine spirit of others, should take a lesson before they suffer the loss of their "house," their good family name and reputation, or even by their pridefulness causing the spiritual downfall of their own family. On the other hand, Jehovahz looks out to support faithful widows, especially those serving God while lovingly waiting to be reunited with their dear husbands in the resurrection.

PROVERBS B COMMENTARY

Proverbs 15:26-33:

"26 Jehovahz detests the schemes of the crooked one, But pleasant sayings are pure to Him. 27 The one making dishonest profit brings trouble on his own household, But the one hating bribes will keep living. 28 The heart of the upright one meditates before answering, But the mouth of the ungodly blurts out bad things. 29 Jehovahz is far away from the crooked, But he hears the prayer of the upright. 30 Bright (or, Enlightened) eyes make the heart rejoice; A good report invigorates the bones. 31 The one who listens to life-giving reproof Is at home among the wise. 32 Anyone refusing discipline despises his life, But whoever listens to reproof acquires understanding. 33 The fear of Jehovahz is a training in wisdom, And before glory there is humility."

HATE EVIL SCHEMES AS GOD DOES! (Pro15:26) The "crooked" or corrupt one spends time plotting schemes out of selfishness, greed, or jealousy, for instance. Proverbs 24:8 says "Anyone who plots evil will be called a master schemer." How much better to spend time pondering pleasant and wise sayings! Such sayings are "pure" to Jehovahz God, and if from Him, "refined" and entirely good. Proverbs 30:5 says "Every saying of God is refined." By pondering what is good and upright, ones may develop heart appreciation for goodness, and learn to hate and turn away from what is bad, or evil.

"27 The one making dishonest profit brings trouble on his own household, But the one hating bribes will keep living."

MAKE A LIVING CONTRIBUTING TO GOD'S PURPOSE. (Pro15:27) Jehovahz rewards and blesses the upright, not those making "dishonest profit." Lacking God's blessing, and encouraging greed among even family members, such ones open themselves up for trouble on their own household, for instance, by jealous trouble-makers, wanting their "piece of the pie." Life may even be involved, as the contrasting statement says that the one hating unjust bribes "will keep living." We should therefore seek God's blessing on our life by making an honest living, seeking our means of maintenance in ways that are in harmony with God's lawls and standards of truth, justice, and righteousness. Proverbs 10:22 says "It is the blessing of Jehovahz that makes one rich, Hard work alone doesn’t add to your wealth." And Psalm 127:1 says, in part, "Unless Jehovahz builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it..." Also, the importance of living and acting in accord with God's standards, in whatever we do, is emphasized by one of the first Proverbs beginning in chapter 10. Proverbs 10:2 says "The treasures gained by wrongdoing will be of no benefit, But righteousness is what rescues from death." Therefore, choose to find your treasures the right way, in accord with God's lawls and standards, giving you heartfelt reason to rejoice over your contributions to a peaceful, happy, and prosperous new world.

"28 The heart of the upright one meditates before answering, But the mouth of the crooked blurts out bad things."

MAKE IT A HABIT TO THINK HOW TO ANSWER. (Pro15:28) Perhaps the lesson of this verse is summed up by the saying "Think before you speak." The upright ponder before answering someone, as they wish to say the right thing, in the right way, in a way their specific audience may comprehend and benefit from. The crooked, on the other hand, may often have no such concerns, rather 'blurting out' what is bad. Such ones are usually prideful, being 'wise in their own eyes,' perhaps believing their every idea is great, worthy of speech. (PROve 3:7). Proverbs 18:2 says "A mischievous person takes no pleasure in understanding; He would rather disclose what is in his heart." Such ones should learn to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger." (JAMes 1:19).Thus we should become excellent listeners, and be cautious when we choose to speak, that what we say may be in line with God's loving will and word.

"29 Jehovahz is far away from the crooked, But he hears the prayer of the upright."

SEEK CLOSENESS TO GOD. (Pro15:29) If such crooked ones do not repent, Jehovahz is "far away" from them, but in contrast hears the intimate prayer of the upright. Who should not want to be close to the Grand Creator of the Universe? (Eccle 12:1). What a privilege! The crooked instead have no appreciation for this privilege, choosing to be "close" to others still thinking as they do. Perhaps they are feeling unworthy of such, but repentance can turn such notions around! May they investigate reasons to appreciate the Giver of Life and of every breath, Jehovahz, and ponder His tremendous love and mercy, that they may come to have more heart appreciation for Him, and be moved to respond obediently to His loving correction and counsel. Psalm 103:2-5 says, for instance, to those determined to obey Him with integrity: "Let me praise Jehovahz; 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 love and mercy. 5 He satisfies you with good things all your life, So that your youth is renewed like that of an eagle." (See all of Psalm 103).

"30 Bright (or, Enlightened) eyes make the heart rejoice; A good report invigorates the bones."

SEEK THE LIGHT OF TRUTH. (Pro15:30) Bright, or "enlightened" eyes, receiving light of truth from God, brings rejoicing to the heart. Psalm 97:11 says "Light has flashed up for the upright And rejoicing for those honest in heart." Of course, it is responding in action to the enlightenment we receive from God that brings true rejoicing, and upright ones will typically respond to beneficial knowledge with faithfulness, holding to God's standards. As 1Corinthians 13:6 says, godlove "rejoices with the truth." Thus a good report also "invigorates the bones," refreshing our spiritual core.

"31 The one who listens to life-giving reproof Is at home among the wise. 32 Anyone refusing discipline despises his life, But whoever listens to reproof acquires understanding."

TREASURE ‘LIFE-GIVING REPROOF’. (Pro15:31-32) Proverbs 12:15 says "The way of the fool is right in his own eyes, But the wise one accepts advice." May we aim to appreciate advice, even strong, but loving, discipline from others. Such correction is often given with much considerate forethought, even prayer. We need such discipline to remain squarely on the path of eternal life. Strong correction should add to our understanding of life, aiding us to continue walking in the fear of Jehovahz, hating what is bad. (PROve 8:13). However, such discipline must be given in love to be most beneficial, after the example of Joshualz'z/Jesus's loving treatment of his "disciples." To refuse such correction would reveal a lack of appreciation for one's hopes of eternal life, as Proverbs 6:23 says "...the reproofs of discipline are the way to life."

"33 The fear of Jehovahz is a training in wisdom, And before glory there is humility."

HUMBLY SEEK TO PLEASE GOD. (Pro15:33) The healthy fear of displeasing God is shown to be the "beginning" of both divine knowledge and wisdom. (PROve 1:7; 9:10). Thus, this should be taught at a young age, helping youths to eventually grasp the qualities of both discernment and understanding (PROve 2:1-5). Humility must also be treasured among genuine servants of God, truly considering others as superior, valuing their gifts and knowledge that many may benefit from. How appropriate that one receiving just or due honor have this view of themselves in relation to others.

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