Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Only One Fruit Will Help You to Unclog and Clean Your Arteries (Pomegranate)

Source Website: http://zonnews.com/health/4109-only-one-fruit-will-help-you-to-unclog-and-clean-your-arteries.html
Source: healthyfoodplans
By  Kate Ryna Daring, Zonnews, Zon Staff



Resent study has shown that pomegranate extract is extremely helpful with cardiovascular diseases as it prevents the thickening of the coronary arteries due to fat accumulation known as atherosclerosis.
PHOTO: Resent study has shown that pomegranate extract is extremely helpful with cardiovascular diseases as it prevents the thickening of the coronary arteries due to fat accumulation known as atherosclerosis. This fruit reduces inflammation and regulates high blood pressure. It also improves the blood flow in the cardiovascular system of heart patients and that it why it prevents heart diseases and heart attacks.
Posted by Kaizen
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOGNMDp6MXioV1g8zc2rRsdxrijudZFKbKaEy8m2hkis2DpU0Bq4hf_Q5l4kKYTJdn7YBQ6BEWHdp-IE2_hJmHcmwW-uzTtcs0pYI2NJudIBUW-54rsxy3FytAm3Iq3_PT9hbICV0TXc/s1600/whole-and-sliced-pomegranates.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMsjIBp9z4lLjNgtZtxah2DQMZX1lE-guMhGZw06_0DDBkIoo-yZ5jh20xoImTfGBR94vlZIZU1Nvo8KAyRuEfIbhExBhWnptH9PHO1RNOoVoej9VaXzYFP8OHW1OXGVgmq4e4HcfiKWg/s1600/whole-and-sliced-pomegranates.jpg
http://dinetha.blogspot.sg/



Newest research has discovered that the extract of pomegranate is extremely helpful in cases of cardiovascular diseases, for it prevents the thickening of the coronary arteries due to fat accumulation, otherwise known as atherosclerosis.

It seems that pomegranate offers superb benefits for our health, as it also reduces inflammation and regulates high blood pressure. Furthermore, this fruit improves the blood flow in the cardiovascular system, and that is the reason why its consumption prevents heart diseases and heart attacks.



This fruit improves the blood flow in the cardiovascular system, and that is the reason why its consumption prevents heart diseases and heart attacks.
PHOTO: This fruit improves the blood flow in the cardiovascular system, and that is the reason why its consumption prevents heart diseases and heart attacks.
Posted by Kaizen
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2hU793TkcoUO9rdzF1j7WYzGFv1ayNzyDNHLN9pU40PM4ae2hIhITMFsFAOWgrH5klA6w0BvOBpJ8nQWu9XWvY309xTVo4WMhNJyF1bHIKAlWPDKrZ9TJiEDbKtySK_IfTWvStiIqKA/s1600/artery_hardening.jpg
http://dinetha.blogspot.sg/2015/11/only-one-fruit-will-help-you-to-unclog.html



Pomegranate is an exceptional fruit, rich in powerful favorable components for out health, and thus it provides numerous benefits. Some of the most prominent are the following:

  • Decrease bad LDL cholesterol levels
  • Pomegranates have anti-inflammatory properties which can help in defeating inflammations
  • They are rich in antioxidants and that is why they effectively prevent heart diseases
  • Pomegranate is rich in vitamin C which helps in the fight against infections
  • Regular consumption of pomegranates prevents breast cancer, lymphoma, prostate cancer, and diabetes.
  • Pomegranate lowers the body fat, especially the most dangerous type of fat- visceral fat
  • Pomegranate protects DNA
  • It reduces plaque deposits in the arteries and prevents blood clots
  • Pomegranate improves liver function
  • Pomegranates protect the newborns. (Drinking pomegranate juice during pregnancy helps in protecting the baby’s brain, as shown in a study)
  • Pomegranate is also beneficial for your teeth
Additional info
Raw pomegranates are the best alternative, but you can also consume them in your salads or as a part of your desserts.

When purchasing your pomegranates, always pick the ones rich in color, without spots and cuts. The best ones are those large, smooth and firm.

Pomegranates should be kept on dry and cool places, and they will be eatable for a month. If kept in the fridge, they can last up to 2 months.


Source: healthyfoodplans
By  Kate Ryna Daring, Zonnews, Zon Staff


Lastly not only are pomegranates fun to grow they are also good for us.
PHOTO: Lastly not only are pomegranates fun to grow they are also good for us. Studies have shown that pomegranates can be effective in reducing heart disease, blood pressure, inhibit viral infections, and are high in antioxidants.
Pomegranate trees will make a nice addition to any landscape and is recommended to add this historic fruit to  garden.
Posted  by Isons Nursery on 24 October 2013
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7jC2VBTgwsgdv07G5CSx2zAz95eG-qHvnloWyGuocpFN4g6fG6UJXs6FNf7wKGK2_F6IoI3ZNidWEsx9lliIR-fd6-934Wwn-9GKdcsGAc2WS28YVmoAYRmb8idCYSvhpzc8audivbs/s1600/pomegranate-tree.jpg
http://8643565.sites.myregisteredsite.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/pomegranate-tree.jpg
http://isons.com/blog/pomegranates-an-isons-fall-favorite/




Reference

Fewer pomelos for CNY due to haze and rain

Source Website: http://www.soshiok.com/content/fewer-pomelos-cny-due-haze-and-rain
By Ivan Loh, The Star/Asia News Network, Tuesday, 26 January, 2016

Fewer pomelos for CNY due to haze and rain
PHOTO: Fewer pomelos for CNY due to haze and rain
Photo: The Star/ANN
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOx5Day8DtcGIVxKWM6afTwaqfM5gkiwT8HToy5okDMkFEPKwxD2cXaEYhgl-DyfKbqqbOk5s-SfJIKJVjs64TKSdrRzvGnAl7E1cgbhvlLMys-f0B_2WfH2aY7RErKeRztiM45CQoFcs/s1600/20160126_fruits.jpg
http://www.soshiok.com/sites/default/files/public/styles/article_main_image/public/article/images/featured/20160126_fruits.jpg?itok=fse25T1h
http://www.soshiok.com/content/fewer-pomelos-cny-due-haze-and-rain



POH - Last year's harvest of pomelo fruit has dropped by almost half due to the haze and rainy season, with fewer fruits being sold in the market.

With a significant drop in harvest, prices are expected to go up by 10 per cent.

Pomelo farm owner Chin Too Kam said the shortage also caused a drop in exports.

"We've greatly reduced the number of fruits for export and are now catering to the local market.
"We want to ensure the locals and our regular customers are still able to get the fruit especially for the Chinese New Year celebration," he said.

Chin, who is also Tambun Pomelo Growers Association chairman, said the hazy weather that affected the country about seven months ago had stunted the growth of the fruits.

"Following the hazy season, the torrential rainfall also affected the pollination and this further affected the yield," he added.

"With fewer fruit to sell, we are expecting pomelo sellers to be affected by a drop in (overall) sales," he said, adding that the fruit could fetch good prices during Chinese New Year.

"Despite the drop in the produce, the quality of fruit sold in the market is still high," he assured.

Chin said the buying power of consumers have also weakened due to the global economic outlook.

"With an expected slight hike in prices, most sellers expect businesses to be slow," he said, adding that one fruit could fetch up to RM23 (S$7.70), depending on its size.

Chin said the pomelo was a good gift to be presented to friends and relatives during Chinese New Year.

He said the pomelo, or look yau as it is called in Cantonese, symbolised prosperity.

"The word look sounds like rolling, which means incoming and yau means have.

"Both words combined means abundance," he said, adding that the fruit was often used in prayers during the festivities.

A pomelo seller, who only wanted to be known as Ng, 56, said business was still slow with about two weeks to go for Chinese New Year.

"We hope business will pick up soon. I think most will buy the fruits at the eleventh hour," he said.

On normal days, Ng said most sellers relied on tourists.

"On and off, I get tourists from Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore, but they can't buy a lot because they can't bring these past the customs checkpoint at the airport," she said.

By Ivan Loh, The Star/Asia News Network, Tuesday, 26 January, 2016


A stall selling pomelos at a Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown.
PHOTO: A stall selling pomelos at a Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown.
PHOTO: BERITA HARIAN
Published by SPH Digital News, Singapore Press Holdings on Tuesday, 26 January, 2016

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIG-hTlpfJHxR-ZUZPvXMdvwmJguwC3-ti0Pyj-NtiM3uwGDyOh40-aU39VTAe4fymyOfrlHRP8oZKQp8E4bVBUorUSVIsLsUnlDBlHbdNc936E7Ua1OqtC5A05FY7qItX5yi0UiFO3Do/s1600/269.jpg
http://www.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/styles/x_large/public/articles/2016/01/26/269.jpg?itok=MaDQY3QJ
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/fewer-pomelos-for-chinese-new-year-due-to-haze-and-rain



Reference

The day my son was smacked in class

Source Website: http://news.asiaone.com/news/asian-opinions/day-my-son-was-smacked-class
By Tee Hun Ching, The Straits Times, Monday, Jan 25, 2016, 5:00 am SGT


Smacked by a teacher
PHOTO: Smacked by a teacher
Kids should be taught to raise the alert when teachers are out of line, but parents should also trust schools to handle any disputes.
Just as we don't appreciate being told how to do our job by outsiders, we should also accord educators the same courtesy and respect. But schools and teachers should also recognise that not all parents who voice their concerns are neurotic mother hens or insufferable know-it-alls who hold teachers in contempt.
Photo: The Straits Times
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguQVJfIcttvar6NQQm064BtOfq2AJYkpriazLFl4myRz2WQLIycoMSS9Y8Mjh7Fgcjs237ufxCeJPfTj-zKbYuj9oeFy9tf28vap-SS3dRYnbTkKZmz4FnasY3vZP1ZN-Baej1Gx1fnY/s1600/st_20160125_5eabooksesaf1_20147261.jpg
http://www.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/st_20160125_5eabooksesaf1_20147261.jpg
http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/the-day-my-son-was-smacked-in-class



I could tell that something was wrong as my son strode towards me after school one recent Friday.

His face seemed more flushed than usual and his jaw was clenched tight. He was one angry boy.

The minute I was within earshot, my eight-year-old let rip. "My teacher hit some of us with a ruler for getting an answer wrong. Two of my friends cried. Mama, go with me to the general office. I want to tell them what she did."

I was more amused than surprised. He looked rather cute as he gave vent to his ire, gesticulating wildly like a tight coil of spring that had finally been set free.

I tried to calm him down and had him recount the incident in detail. I wasn't about to confront anyone without first getting the facts.

By the time we had driven home, I'd got a full account, as well as several text messages from concerned mums of his classmates who had heard that my son had been smacked by a teacher.

According to him, he was first rapped a few times on his forearm with a wooden ruler because he got the answer to a health education assignment wrong.

Then, when he went back to show her his correction, the teacher hit him again several times because he had written something else she wanted above instead of below the first answer.

"She didn't say she wanted it below the answer," he insisted.

After he gave his side of the story, I probed him to see if he had provoked her first. "Were you rude or disobedient? Did you talk back to her? Were you fooling around? Did you pay attention in class?"

It wasn't right of her to lash out at him and his friends over what sounded like minor and honest mistakes, but I thought there could be mitigating factors.



The UK is coming under renewed pressure from europe to ban smacking and corporal punishment of children.
PHOTO: The UK is coming under renewed pressure from europe to ban smacking and corporal punishment of children.
Illustration by Sarah Lee, posted on Sunday 25 April 2010 at 16.29 BST
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRH7rb1WaTZcs-KfiIR8Rqqdny89zUOSwNPUCeCbPrT_6oGb02EwKnPi9otnyNxb9NXiKBWaNJAOs8lxYkxMqbaEBnaLKt-TjxjQyusISSYa0zIDYuAOjAFbsOoG57-7VfFHQMenNdCcc/s1600/Europe-pressures-UK-over--006.jpg
https://i.guim.co.uk/img/static/sys-images/Guardian/About/General/2010/4/25/1272209345350/Europe-pressures-UK-over--006.jpg?w=1200&q=85&auto=format&sharp=10&s=3e5367f22375ba77ba6c582a7830b489
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/apr/25/law-reform-smacking-europe-uk



As a parent volunteer with his school, I've been attached to different classes for various activities over the past two years, and I have nothing but respect and admiration for the teachers.

Managing 30 to 40 energetic boys at one go while trying to pump knowledge and, hopefully, some values into them is no walk in the park. It takes just one or two rascals to disrupt the lesson and throw the whole class into chaos.

My son denied misbehaving in any way, and I know he is usually more eager to please his teachers than his parents.

Besides, if he was guilty of any misdemeanour (a minor wrongdoing), I doubt he would have had the cheek to want to lodge a complaint against her. He knows a worse fate awaits him at home if he lies or tries to cover up any transgression.

I have, however, been hearing unsettling reports about the teacher from my son and his friends since the new school year started. These mostly revolve around how she shouts at them over seemingly trivial matters and sometimes uses hurtful words like "dumb" and "fat".

In the WhatsApp chat group for his class, several mums have also shared stories from their sons about this "very fierce" teacher, who has lessons with the boys four days out of five every week.

I had shrugged all this off as part of schooling and growing up. We can't all be blessed with gentle and caring teachers all the time, and even the most patient teacher can snap sometimes. The unwarranted physical punishment, however, was worrying.

I verified my son's account with some of his friends and decided to write an e-mail to the principal.

I know, I know. At this point, some of you are probably rolling your eyes and thinking: "Another one of those parents from hell who would kick up a fuss over the slightest thing."

I don't blame you. Today's mollycoddling parents have acquired such a poor reputation that any negative feedback from them is likely to be dismissed as an over-reaction or mocked as yet another example of over-protectiveness.

In fact, I did wonder if I should send the e-mail for fear of being labelled a monster parent.

But I wasn't so much upset that my son was hit as concerned about the teacher's behaviour. My son's case was not an isolated incident. Neither was the smacking confined to his class. Going by the feedback I'd gathered, this teacher seemed to have a volatile temper that led to angry outbursts nearly every day.

There is a clear difference between strict and erratic. If she could not keep her emotions in check, worse could follow.

The mums who heard about the incident were mostly shocked by the use of physical force. The question that often followed was: "Is that still allowed these days?"

I am in favour of corporal punishment in serious cases of grave or repeated misconduct, which I believe is the Education Ministry's stand.

I wouldn't complain either if my son was rapped for disobedience or insolence. I would think he deserved it. One of my biggest fears is to have my children grow up to be self-centred brats who are a liability to society.

In this case, however, the teacher was not dealing with a bunch of rebellious or recalcitrant (having an obstinately uncooperative attitude towards authority or discipline) teens, but eight-year-olds who are still getting used to the faster academic pace of Primary 3.



Obstinately uncooperative attitude towards authority or discipline (Brat)
PHOTO: Obstinately uncooperative attitude towards authority or discipline (Brat)
Posted by Samantha Kurtzman-Counter on 24 February 2011
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ehlgNtlv_fIRkttXgIM47Qgx4eED5z8oxgTZw0hWqtsloBM0q-U5PQQwaCK9DTliwI4QKle8K5wthFo8Ga7vI1pWFet5AqHT3R88-dYlhOX1fVaS8TtFbk3lvf9JCkPbuW1eeY3mB3c/s1600/Brat-544x800-881x499.jpg
http://www.themotherco.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Brat-544x800-881x499.jpg
http://www.themotherco.com/2011/02/help-my-kid-is-a-brat/



At this age, most of them still hold their teachers in awe and would not think to question what they do or say.

Even if they sense inappropriate behaviour, lower primary kids might not be able to articulate their fears.

To them, the word "fierce" likely covers the whole spectrum from stern to psychotic.

I wrote to the school because I wanted a clearer picture of what went on in the teacher's class and, to be fair to her, hear her side of the story. If she was, indeed, wielding her ruler or hand too carelessly, we should find out why.

The school's prompt response was heartening. The principal replied the next morning, vowing to look into the matter right away.

Several boys, including my son, were asked to give verbal and written accounts of what had happened. That same afternoon, the principal called to say they had issued a stern warning to the teacher, who admitted to hitting the kids because "she lost it".

He stressed that corporal punishment cannot be carried out by staff without his consent and parents' knowledge, and promised to monitor the teacher closely.

All has been well since and, as one of my son's classmates reported, the teacher is "not so screamy" these days.

Some friends thought I should have confronted her in person or perhaps asked for her removal. But I believe there is a line that parents should not cross, and calls that are not ours to make.

While younger kids should be taught to raise the alert when teachers are out of line, we should also trust schools to handle any unhappy or unfortunate incidents once we flag them.

We parents have drawn enough bad press in recent years for our supercilious attitude and lack of respect for teachers, which critics say have caused student discipline and staff morale to suffer.

Just as we don't appreciate being told how to do our job by outsiders, we should also accord educators the same courtesy and respect.

But schools and teachers should also recognise that not all parents who voice their concerns are neurotic mother hens or insufferable know-it-alls who hold teachers in contempt.

Just as how there are kids with issues who require extra attention, some teachers may also face challenges that need addressing.

The stakes are too high these days for us not to work together. We do our kids a big disservice when parents and schools view each other with distrust and disdain (contempt).

My son now knows that his school and parents will always look after his welfare. But we have also stressed that he can expect no support from us if he acts up in school and risks being whacked.

By Tee Hun Ching, The Straits Times, Monday, Jan 25, 2016, 5:00 am SGT



Tee Hun Ching
PHOTO: Tee Hun Ching, a former editor and copy editor with The Straits Times, is now a freelance journalist.
Published on 25 January, 2016 at 5:00 am SGT
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYzMg3u29xBoaIiTV58ugvRDP30JsmsBlbrHYaLYy6Fam_8z3mGH78vlBljpHfTLoLLDRdUR2UqN55-mWNMnJ4UuQdWC9PKsor7Af6qKXVF9r31i3-QI37W6J71mdWGasrXxaLvugdcM/s1600/byline-tee-hun-ching.png
http://www.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/author/2015/07/27/byline-tee-hun-ching.png
http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/the-day-my-son-was-smacked-in-class




Reference

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Reflection - Double duty of Christians

Source (book): "Faithful to the end", Question 1, Page 107.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


John Stott summarises what is required to grow into holiness

PHOTO: John Stott summarises what is required to grow into holiness - fleeing from sin and pursuing righteousness. It is the ruthless rejection of the one in combination with the relentless pursuit of the other which Scripture enjoins (instruct or urge (someone) to do something) upon us as the secret of holiness.
Painting by Konstantin_Flavitsky - Christian Martyrs in the Coliseum
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9KhzGmQiOUxhGhAiZP0efJykEjwSMXLAkidQY6Un9UoId_VeSClNL5BfHcfqJA1WaAKBmwO02VEzfTHs2lBDi8K_qDX3l_lx86PDvhIbpaFoatlmCN5BnJQiz3YTRjbnVgo6qeKV07U/s1600/konstantin_flavitsky_christian_martyrs_in_colosseum-christian-martyrs-in-the-coliseum-1.jpg
https://sarwataj.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/konstantin_flavitsky_christian_martyrs_in_colosseum-christian-martyrs-in-the-coliseum.jpg?w=1200
https://sarwataj.wordpress.com/2014/09/04/the-monk-tells-of-nero-35/
https://sarwataj.wordpress.com/2014/09/04/the-monk-tells-of-nero-35/konstantin_flavitsky_christian_martyrs_in_colosseum-christian-martyrs-in-the-coliseum/#main



According to John Stott, the secret of holiness is in faithfully pursuing the "double duty of Christians" (refer to page 101). Discuss this double duty and share how it can show up in everyday life. Why is holiness needed to please God and to be useful to Him? Reflect on your current state with regard to this double duty and express your thoughts to God in prayer.

According to John Stott, the secret of holiness is in faithfully pursuing the "double duty of Christians" (refer to page 101).
[2]

John Stott summarises what is required to grow into holiness - fleeing from sin and pursuing righteousness:
"This double duty of Christians - negative and positive - is the consistent, reiterated teaching of Scripture. Thus, we are to deny ourselves and follow Christ. We are to put to death our earthly members and to set our minds on heavenly things. We are to crucify the flesh and to walk in the Spirit. It is the ruthless rejection of the one in combination with the relentless pursuit of the other which Scripture enjoins (instruct or urge (someone) to do something) upon us as the secret of holiness. Only so can we hope to be fit for the Master's use. If the promise is to be inherited ('he will be a vessel for noble use'), the condition must be fulfilled ('if any one purifies himself from what is ignoble [not honourable in character or purpose]')." [3]



We are to put to death our earthly members and to set our minds on heavenly things.
PHOTO: We are to put to death our earthly members and to set our minds on heavenly things. We are to crucify the flesh and to walk in the Spirit. Only so can we hope to be fit for the Master's use. If the promise is to be inherited ('he will be a vessel for noble use'), the condition must be fulfilled ('if any one purifies himself from what is ignoble [not honourable in character or purpose]').
Posted in Dreams, Time, tenacity, Life on 26 march 2012
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https://sacredspiritdance.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/ad957947.jpg
https://sacredspiritdance.wordpress.com/2014/07/09/%E2%99%AC%E2%99%AC-sacred-spirit-dance-%E2%99%AC%E2%99%AC-1269/
https://sacredspiritdance.wordpress.com/category/sogni/page/146/



Discuss this double duty and share how it can show up in everyday life.
Double duty of Christians [1]
Timothy is urged by Paul to remain faithful and useful to the Lord. He has to have the right attitudes in the ministry to which he had been called. Like a devoted soldier, a disciplined athlete, and a diligent farmer, Timothy is to serve the Lord with all determination, faithfulness, and sincerity as he received God's grace.


Timothy is urged by Paul to remain faithful and useful to the Lord.
PHOTO: Timothy is urged by Paul to remain faithful and useful to the Lord. He has to have the right attitudes in the ministry to which he had been called. Like a devoted soldier, a disciplined athlete, and a diligent farmer, Timothy is to serve the Lord with all determination, faithfulness, and sincerity as he received God's grace.
Picture posted by on 9 April 2013 (last modified) at 17:00
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0iGwSCJyLsNtvAMkZbvm_R7bWTiinXMAla6D_VFpKsryjSx3-r01gBV4Q0EtsRPspDUJ1BMqVCh3RiVrl2ohKrVXr6hD8JXPja4LJ5kGNKc_q0cmpdjHtWrwtycqI_t64i6Gq8IqPuE/s1600/I_have_fought_a_good_fight_2_Timothy_4-7.jpg
http://www.marysrosaries.com/collaboration/images/8/80/I_have_fought_a_good_fight_2_Timothy_4-7.jpg
http://www.marysrosaries.com/collaboration/index.php?title=Category:Second_Letter_of_St._Paul_to_Timothy



Because Timothy was a pastor, he had to teach well in the church and ensure that no false teaching crept into his congregation. He had to fight false doctrines because of the danger they posed to the  people. They must be fought and overcome like doctors battling gangrene that is spreading across a limb. Also, as a pastor, Timothy was to be a model disciple of Jesus; he had to show what it meant to love Jesus, and follow Him in holiness and service.



Because Timothy was a pastor, he had to teach well in the church and ensure that no false teaching crept into his congregation.
PHOTO: Because Timothy was a pastor, he had to teach well in the church and ensure that no false teaching crept into his congregation. As a pastor, Timothy was to be a model disciple of Jesus; he had to show what it meant to love Jesus, and follow Him in holiness and service.
Picture posted by Jerold Aust on 21 May 2001
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyulSBJRycy8-pvvDVgY9CYTtWEo4iYYriirdEoxnqtuB9TGmEtu-tOjEc9gMKfho3NuJ2F7VP6vvJ2eyt1tGbab7CkMji4sd4IDM9_OC-oXF4lcEQFuQodoldYgm6D7Ha0MhNwgfcS0A/s1600/profiles-of-faith-timothy-pauls-son-in-the-faith.jpg
http://www.ucg.org/system/storage/serve/151131/profiles-of-faith-timothy-pauls-son-in-the-faith.jpg?itok=23x4Zci4
http://www.ucg.org/the-good-news/profiles-of-faith-timothy-pauls-son-in-the-faith



In other words, Timothy had to watch both his doctrine and life (1 Timothy 4:16). Only with pure doctrine and life can he effectively minister to the lost, to bring the word of truth to them, and exhibit the power of the gospel in his life. What was true for Timothy is true for all of us as well. All Christians are called to serve the Lord as His servants and witnesses. This work cannot be done in the spirit of mercenaries. We are called to serve not only with our hands, but also with our hearts; not only with our lips, but also with our lives. Without our whole-hearted involvement as the Lord's witnesses, we cannot be effective in reaching out to the lost.



Timothy had to watch both his doctrine and life (1 Timothy 4:16).
PHOTO: Timothy had to watch both his doctrine and life (1 Timothy 4:16). What was true for Timothy is true for all of us as well. All Christians are called to serve the Lord as His servants and witnesses. We are called to serve not only with our hands, but also with our hearts; not only with our lips, but also with our lives.
Post by Yvonne
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https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/29/e6/ec/29e6ec43cec11b81a360a892ec924db9.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/53902526766561950/



Instruments for Noble Purposes [1]
Paul used the example of a typical house in which one finds different kinds of containers (2 Timothy 2:20-21). There will be vessels made of gold and silver as well as those made of wood and clay. This is similar to what Paul wrote to the Corinthians warning them to watch how they built their lives and ministry, whether they used costly materials such as gold and silver or whether cheap alternatives such as hay and straw were used. The quality of each man's work will be shown when tested with the fire of God's judgement (1 Corinthians 3:12-15).



 Paul wrote to the Corinthians warning them to watch how they built their lives and ministry, whether they used costly materials such as gold and silver or whether cheap alternatives such as hay and straw were used.
PHOTO: Paul wrote to the Corinthians warning them to watch how they built their lives and ministry, whether they used costly materials such as gold and silver or whether cheap alternatives such as hay and straw were used. The quality of each man's work will be shown when tested with the fire of God's judgement (1 Corinthians 3:12-15).
Picture posted by Watchtower on 1 April 1996
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnu2CdPA55SFjqbsz-lumfiuFLjSY-dXEQaf4Do7xdx3rlhG3RmR-LaLpMJKMur-wA-C6A36zAOYeKhZgCty5cNuml5bhe4kyjhgh8W1e9RDMO1L-vw4YPSBXTBwpf8RhElNq_Umku6d4/s1600/THE-MAN-OF-FIRE3.jpg
http://e-watchman.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/THE-MAN-OF-FIRE3.jpg
http://jehovah-is-king.com/judgment/



Similarly, Paul used the metaphor of vessels in a house here. Vessels made of gold and silver would not be used for ignoble purposes but for noble ones. Few, if any, would think of using a costly jar as a container for rubbish. Paul used the metaphor of a variety of vessels to differentiate between true servants of God who taught and maintained the truth of the gospel of Christ, and false teachers who introduced spiritual poison through their teaching instead of feeding the flock. Church history shows that in the church, there have been both faithful and unfaithful people, as the Lord predicted in His parable of the wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30). The Master told his frustrated and puzzled servants who saw both wheat and weed growing in the field: "Let both grow together until the harvest", and "the harvest" refers to the judgement day when the weeds will be burned and the wheat will be 'barned' - that is, brought into the Master's barn.



The wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30)
PHOTO: The wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30)
The Master told his frustrated and puzzled servants who saw both wheat and weed growing in the field: "Let both grow together until the harvest", and "the harvest" refers to the judgement day when the weeds will be burned and the wheat will be 'barned' - that is, brought into the Master's barn.
Picture by artist Eugène Burnand (1850-1921) 

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG453jHKwbgLXaluFavXUZ31vpVGYhX6TkaNZDPnewGmDq7_dWjlD8_WA06HM5M4BJK0_Z0HPm9-tggXt1oEM_MXRrauzRLn4qe5Rb02DVYIKGTmDtqlfErii1XRYOA8GTN3Z97jNLkFs/s1600/tares1.jpg
http://www.eugene-burnand.com/Parables/parables%20images/tares1.jpg
http://www.eugene-burnand.com/Parables/tares.htm



In the early 4th century, intense persecution broke out against the Christians under the Roman emperor Diocletian. Many Christians remained faithful to Christ, willing to suffer pain and death for their Lord. Others compromised, handing over the Scriptures to the authorities to be burned, thus escaping further persecution. Some even gave lists of fellow Christians to the Roman authorities so that they could win favour while putting their Christians brothers and sisters in danger. Those who compromised in these ways were called traditores, which means "those who handed over holy things".



In the early 4th century, intense persecution broke out against the Christians under the Roman emperor Diocletian.
PHOTO: In the early 4th century, intense persecution broke out against the Christians under the Roman emperor Diocletian. Many Christians remained faithful to Christ, willing to suffer pain and death for their Lord. Others compromised, handing over the Scriptures to the authorities to be burned, thus escaping further persecution.
Posted by  John M on Thursday, 23 April 2015 at 18:08
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuw8FCvpHj3rxLc2dN2yPD0ic4A10VAKbttMUoGK4HZdW2Sz8OTyWMUjRd_Fd6gQ-W_wtgDcBabKXTAPBOup0VPN1noAl28bgWdbuifz-4Gus7Lypy58vKpuJrjfJEgvWNhdXciZu0i10/s1600/myths-of-persecution-1.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcmgmW1SqvwQwn10YKbV2IWCgmz3upgAPjIUzKnLcJHzlppQt3_CGS8KtW-tw-Qtvgfx8AY4Qmiux3fRopQXHbVDujHxLEJnptreKY008zvyYXdsIS7tTarvA-L2mJOFpi-OBvHdfyE4k/s1600/myths-of-persecution-1.jpg
http://archaeology-heritage-insurance.blogspot.sg/2015/04/georgios-and-great-persecution.html



When Christianity become legal and made the official religion in the Roman Empire soon after this season of persecution, the church struggled with what to do with the traditores. Most chruches forgave, restored and accepted them into the church. But there was a group of churches in North Africa that was against that practice. They were known as the Donatists and rejected the traditores, and even considered baptisms performed by such people when they became pastors as invalid.



Soon after this season of persecution, the church struggled with what to do with the traditores.
PHOTO: Soon after this season of persecution, the church struggled with what to do with the traditores. Most chruches forgave, restored and accepted them into the church. But there was a group of churches in North Africa that was against that practice. They were known as the Donatists and rejected the traditores, and even considered baptisms performed by such people when they became pastors as invalid.
Picture  from traditores.org 

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLImAQab3nbcdZbpXQj3nyJc0DdXCmXXUBWoYjvDn37dqhVLZcbudOIErwiMPX0N8VbQ-cv5HUQI-cFuFgjF2kb1vYw9Q7FREX-PAVuovr6siZz8_uhmXhXCLgsxYW1uFzfVOS-A8jDxY/s1600/1e822df74a7cb93cb4a5f8089999d23a.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1e/82/2d/1e822df74a7cb93cb4a5f8089999d23a.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/118219558945313893/



The Donatists were a force to be reckoned with during the time of Augustine of Hippo (in North Africa). Augustine argued against the Donatists and pointed to the Lord's parable of the wheat and the weeds. It is not possible to be rid of all "weeds" in the church; in any case, it is the Lord who will separate the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31-46). Augustine also argued for the doctrine of ex opera operato - that the validity of sacraments does not depend on the person performing the sacrament but the sacrament itself - as a counter to the Donatists. In time, the teachings of Augustine prevailed and the Donatists became a diminished movement. Many centuries later, Martin Luther used Augustine's arguments to counter the Anabaptists who called for a "pure church" of true believers only.



Saint Augustine of Hippo (in North Africa) argued against the Donatists and pointed to the Lord's parable of the wheat and the weeds.
PHOTO: Saint Augustine of Hippo (in North Africa) argued against the Donatists and pointed to the Lord's parable of the wheat and the weeds. It is not possible to be rid of all "weeds" in the church; in any case, it is the Lord who will separate the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31-46). Many centuries later, Martin Luther used Augustine's arguments to counter the Anabaptists who called for a "pure church" of true believers only.
Painting by Charles-André van Loo (15 february 1705 – 15 july 1765)- St. Augustine arguing with donatists
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBD4SkVEob0fnbP8QRMBFizRTeraG2y9Ph9xVBcl26Lg2LeduB_tbfGhZK_VXcQFspVsX6ivT_JLc0GzpWP1hGbIrHvzJBOpmD6xIz4b2eUqeaW9W_sueEIu3QHQ7ro61lOTvpc6hF1U/s1600/Charles-Andr%25C3%25A9+van+Loo+-+St.+Augustine+arguing+with+donatists.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFaZu4gGXBHj95IoNbFqDKfT-y-ihH50oTybLCJYHUIZragy6S2rnbNNFnU-du2wbgsoG__Z1cWMI3TJ59Nx-Ied0uk0kLx4Isp2xCsEo4J3jEK1G2QebOQcvSlibgyqbXEVZvJtoR8U/s1600/Charles-Andr%25C3%25A9+van+Loo+-+St.+Augustine+arguing+with+donatists.jpg
http://galeriidearta.blogspot.sg/2014/02/charles-andre-van-loo15-februarie-1705.html



In the church, there will always be those who are not born again, those who are deliberately living in sin, and those who are uncommitted or unfaithful to the Lord. We must seek to minister in such a way as to make everyone true to the Lord, but this is done not by removing people from the church but through teaching and pastoring. But here, Paul was dealing not with Christians who needed to be more committed to the Lord but false teachers who were teaching falsehood. What should Timothy do about them?

Should he drive them away from the church? If he focused his attention on getting rid of false teachers in the church, things may descend to the level of political actions and power play. To avoid going in that direction, we must remember that the proper response to false teaching is not aggressive political action but determined pastoral teaching.



In the church, there will always be those who are not born again, those who are deliberately living in sin, and those who are uncommitted or unfaithful to the Lord.
PHOTO: In the church, there will always be those who are not born again, those who are deliberately living in sin, and those who are uncommitted or unfaithful to the Lord. We must seek to minister in such a way as to make everyone true to the Lord, but this is done not by removing people from the church but through teaching and pastoring.
The proper response to false teaching is not aggressive political action but determined pastoral teaching.
Picture posted by Vimeo, LLC.on May 2015

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3By4yCpaof5BZ3VGigOZDi4f8ZMNCnrQ2sW2_bH2tk8dtCGM8rlI_FRWQtOeRx-BmvB849g35mS9FzX43MvLTGKivI9pqXRb48Y2dVXXB2ty0or5jx6Em5Fm3YnDI24qPRtPVuBmqTc/s1600/518917835_1280x640.jpg
https://i.vimeocdn.com/video/518917835_1280x640.jpg
https://vimeo.com/127957719



Most importantly, Timothy must himself seek to be God's "instrument for noble purposes." He could do this by "cleansing himself" and being "made holy". The first phrase is active while the latter is passive. It is God in His grace who makes us holy, but He does this as we cooperate with Him by responding in faith and obeying the Lord.



 It is God in His grace who makes us holy, but He does this as we cooperate with Him by responding in faith and obeying the Lord.
PHOTO: To be God's "instrument for noble purposes", we could do this by "cleansing ourself" and being "made holy". It is God in His grace who makes us holy, but He does this as we cooperate with Him by responding in faith and obeying the Lord.
Picture from youtube.com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHUx6mlyeA40MPL7IOtbDnkwmURNX3tX1CsN3wpOxZV3oQhZiVMJXRW7sEmyhyphenhyphenhLuYLTmYH4G9ZlAzOmAbMaRH9WoYYg-J2MEsMR16_IAgn_HxXowtfrVgAJlBRIFIbHehpJ0_Nlt8eI/s1600/683284328e9a294b371b246ceef050e0.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/68/32/84/683284328e9a294b371b246ceef050e0.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/203436108143118288/



Why is holiness needed to please God and to be useful to Him?
Remain Holy [1]
We are only useful to the Lord when we are holy. Our usefulness depends on what happens inside us. Notice that the phrase "useful to the Master" follows the phrase "made holy". When God works within us to make us holy, we are "prepared  to do any good work" (2 Timothy 2:21). We become proper instruments of the Lord for the work He is doing in His church and the world. Timothy must do all he could to become and remain God's instrument for noble purposes. If a leader in the church is not a holy instrument, then his attempts to deal with opponents will have more to do with politics than ministry, more to do with self-preservation than the preservation of the gospel. In the midst of false teaching in the church, the pastor must first look inside himself to ensure that there is purity of life and doctrine.



We are only useful to the Lord when we are holy.
PHOTO: We are only useful to the Lord when we are holy. Our usefulness depends on what happens inside us. When God works within us to make us holy, we are "prepared  to do any good work" (2 Timothy 2:21). We become proper instruments of the Lord for the work He is doing in His church and the world.
Posted by Lyn McSweeney on 20 May 2007 at 4:23pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmPLelA9i7K34UJeEQ2FQUhW8I_Jpx3UU-4zZMAEh8CAR-j8BvDbl0C-8HGr2dAHJiwpZaK4ryEuVKcM02dEHRTOEct_Sn-tv-zWlAOr0GaYcBwKosMj-cGoaxBHtHpExmfbM7sDLsT0/s1600/28B_dicianni_-_clay_the.jpg
http://www.openheaven.com/forums/uploads/LynMcSweeney/28B_dicianni_-_clay_the.jpg
http://www.openheaven.com/forums/printer_friendly_posts.asp?TID=16140



Flee the Evil Desires of Youth [1]
Paul continues his point about purity of life and doctrine by exhorting Timothy: "Flee the evil desires of youth" (2 Timothy 2:22). The evil desires of youth are not confined to sexual lust, but also youthful unbridled (uncontrolled) ambition, hot-headed impulsiveness, provocative aggression and so on. As biblical scholar Robert Mounce observes, the "desires and craving of youth are those attitudes and actions that contrast with Christian maturity." [3a] Timothy must grow up from immaturity to the fullness of Christian maturity in Christ. The word "flee" (Greek pheugō) refers to the determined and urgent actions taken to escape from danger, just as we are to "flee from the coming wrath" (Matthew 3:7). Joseph fleeing from the seductive whispers of his master Potiphar's wife is an illustration of this (Genesis 39:12).


Potiphar’s wife failed to seduce Joseph, who resisted this temptation by saying it would be a sin against God. sexual sin is not just between two consenting adults. It is an act of disobedience against God.
PHOTO: 'Flee the evil desires of youth' (2 Timothy 2:22)
The evil desires of youth are not confined to sexual lust, but also youthful unbridled (uncontrolled) ambition, hot-headed impulsiveness, provocative aggression and so on.  The "desires and craving of youth are those attitudes and actions that contrast with Christian maturity."
Painting by  Carlo Cignani (Italian, 1628–1719), Joseph and Potiphar's Wife
Posted by Christie

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngLAlywb4XLeiyK-AHuGjZjuZJ90IoSoTY2bVMOoOabod7AqBzfJjQRAgAGmDzZg427UsoO6UOR9JAY82-9oWbo6OCt0kGBHOK3rAinC0FFASQZ6TGGRVLjERj2Cw6sgAHlkgsVXOVDQ/s1600/after_carlo_cignani_joseph_and_potiphars_wife_d5744784h-1.png
http://www.christies.com/lotfinderimages/d57447/after_carlo_cignani_joseph_and_potiphars_wife_d5744784h.jpg
http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/paintings/after-carlo-cignani-joseph-and-potiphars-wife-5744784-details.aspx



We are to resist the devil by standing our ground in spite of persecution (1 Peter 5:9). When we do so, he will flee from us (James 4:7). In the case of temptation, however, instead of resisting, the biblical advice is to flee. The person who foolishly tries to fight temptation is like the man who closes his door when temptation knocks but leaves the door unlocked. Hid dealing with temptation is not wholehearted and his actions hide an unconscious collusion with sin.



 In the case of temptation, however, instead of resisting, the biblical advice is to flee.
PHOTO: In the case of temptation, however, instead of resisting, the biblical advice is to flee. The person who foolishly tries to fight temptation is like the man who closes his door when temptation knocks but leaves the door unlocked.
Picture posted by Chris Hall on 3 November 2013
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXallp5j0MTynrq55lUEMHqoS4p09Ovc2Ao5l-dbW3IttEeRdH92rP7_g63oM6OuapWTAG9lMG2z6gpAnODs8yH9y0VPbOJyGWPt6zbVZv4fr61nIEdfVuIALXukld96rRDl1GexBnog/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RpJGPMc4Au4/maxresdefault.jpg
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPbOZoVJDb9PhDRo96P9-xg



Sin must be taken seriously, with no compromise and tolerance. There must be zero tolerance for sin if we are keen to become holy. Sin has a way of entering in cute baby versions, which then grows to become the ugly reality which it is. It must he nipped in the bud. This is why Paul urged Timothy not to give any place for sin - by fleeing from the smallest of temptations with all speed and strength, God will not use one who has a false life within as an instrument to fight false doctrines in the church. Only he who has a sound life and doctrine will be an effective instrument against unsound doctrines.



The Bible mentions that Joseph was well-built and handsome.
PHOTO: The Bible mentions that Joseph was well-built and handsome. So it's no surprise that he caught the attention of Potiphar's wife.  When she attempted to seduce her husband's young slave, we hear Joseph say, "How could I do such a wicked thing and sin against the Lord!"  But how many of us are so chaste, so noble, so pure? How Can I Resist Temptation?
Posted by Beliefnet, Inc.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCGmX1aOYOwMdlFEMMoeb4RrvGvCXx6jKG63c4zQtIPJA6PucyUEquNHdJh1LK0j6lXx8RC3uPjzODgxakoHYWFwul2jSeQK436FTsclzurdhGbabwaiKa_rr75WJlT9mH2kaZUhEr0Q/s1600/A2AB2802D5C64C5E9799970A643C24B6.ashx.jpg

http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Galleries/How-can-I-resist-temptation.aspx?p=2


Perhaps those who are older, and who are not so youths, may regard Paul's exhortation as irrelevant to them. But as they say, those who consider themselves to be "young at heart" even though they may be in their later decades, must also watch against "youthful desires". We see too many seniors these days regress into their character in their younger days, such as seeking to look young in appearance or singing the adolescent songs - they must heed Paul's advice, for it applies to them too. They must flee youthful desires and grow up to Christian maturity.



Those who are older, must also watch against 'youthful desires'.
PHOTO: We see too many seniors these days regress into their character in their younger days, such as seeking to look young in appearance or singing the adolescent songs - they must heed Paul's advice, for it applies to them too. Sin has a way of entering in cute baby versions, which then grows to become the ugly reality which it is. It must he nipped in the bud.
Picture posted by Gregg Prescott, M.S.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOjooqfJXrYpd1uvkySc8PkPqwunJYi659mYNYjtlaNzbD1OWcaaurboTd0u_8tF1X6Fypn0rDDMUyQ5YeT3_zf1RPzfCj4FmgCl7JRNjfO96Hh3lGOlxkrNEM03SjjoAd8r5757Sa28/s1600/6ce1141c5a7126d2e5a481d43c310ab1.jpg
http://in5d.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/6ce1141c5a7126d2e5a481d43c310ab1.jpg
http://in5d.com/so-your-spiritual-awakening-cost-you-some-friends/



Pursue Holiness [1]
Not only must Timothy flee from sin, he must also pursue holiness (2 Timothy 2:22). The Christian life is not only running away from evil but also the conscious and deliberate pursuits of God's righteousness. No one becomes holy simply by running away from temptation and sin. Holiness also involves the positive action of obeying God's commands - not only the commands not to commit sin, but also the commands to do what is good and right. This is the reason Jesus summarised the Law and the Prophets into the call to positive action: loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighbours as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40).



Loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighburs as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40)
PHOTO: Loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighbours as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40)
The Christian life is not only running away from evil but also the conscious and deliberate pursuits of God's righteousness. No one becomes holy simply by running away from temptation and sin. Holiness also involves the positive action of obeying God's commands - not only the commands not to commit sin, but also the commands to do what is good and right.
Posted in Wonderful Words of Life on 12 October 2010
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsGgQhXC0hJmznty3HWoPewgybLEcGT4W23bC8-FT8Zgwi8JORC5JT4qO9a4g9ndBF3L7lWvMTdttAeat4NEaf9M9MBZHTnurU0-MJoOVzJ4k_RUlJW8Pq51_HSCXt__bW1V66vxm1JU/s1600/3994962381_a7cea6fb37_o.jpg
https://thewayandthetruth.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/3994962381_a7cea6fb37_o.jpg?w=500&h=624
https://thewayandthetruth.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/matthew-2237-40/



The Greek word diōkō (translated as "pursuit") is the opposite of pheugō (flee). The opposite of running away with all haste is chasing something with all determinatiion - like the resolute and relentless pursuits of an animal hunting its prey. Timothy is urged to "pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace" (2 Timothy 2:22). We are to "go in hot pursuit" [3b] of these things that characterise the godly life. Elsewhere Paul uses the same word diōkō in relation to the pursuit of love (1 Corinthians 14:1), peace (Romans 14:19), and righteousness and faith (1 Timothy 6:11). The list is not comprehensive, but we can summarise by saying that the pursuit of godliness is the pursuit of Christ. When we follow Christ we gain His likeness.



We are urged to 'pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace' (2 Timothy 2:22)
PHOTO: We are urged to "pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace" (2 Timothy 2:22)
We are to "go in hot pursuit" [3b] of these things that characterise the godly life. The pursuit of godliness is the pursuit of Christ. When we follow Christ we gain His likeness.
Picture posted by imgarcade.com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaSFAHjQuyHwKwowPwTflfGoUYDsiH3hRVjDzEyf_GSxuy_C_03QwQB0X6G8XVXJ-qHKCgSJc0PFvMI1Z9ff5k__13V5XT7Sj64dqit5E-_WULTSnlgRcRSzYPRJ8RuYXR-U5E1XgFMs/s1600/jesus-praying-in-gethsemane-39591-wallpaper.jpg
http://media.ldscdn.org/images/media-library/gospel-art/new-testament/jesus-praying-in-gethsemane-39591-wallpaper.jpg
http://imgarcade.com/1/jesus-in-gethsemane/


Reflect on your current state with regard to this double duty and express your thoughts to God in prayer.
Fleeing from sin
Still haven't reach Christian maturity. Tempted by many "youth desires" and unable to flee from all.

Pursuing righteousness
Pursuit of righteousness is gaining momentum but not yet resolute and relentless.



Pursuing Christian maturity and righteousness are duties of Christians
PHOTO: Pursuing Christian maturity and righteousness are duties of Christians
Jesus summarised the Law and the Prophets into the call to positive action: loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighbours as we love ourselves (
Matthew 22:37-40).
Posted by Naoko Family
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGcJyIylsYpV3_QAWeFwEiCi9jG1zKpUl5OJBS6kDsmWAZgnVcChtknfOctfP7lbF_i8Q1romRv9aWKkOWHUrAXxXCqjW3dignF5xrrpiFGfzKr-aX5_tykoxN6npzRLHFf4llPGDPRw/s1600/Maturity-shows-edited1.jpg
http://jehovahstrumpet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Maturity-shows-edited1.jpg
http://jehovahstrumpet.com/naoko-family-presses-on-to-christian-maturity/



Prayer [4]
Dear Lord, We pray for being successful in performing the Double duty of Christians.
Fleeing from sin
Mentally fleeing: bouncing our thoughts away from lustful imaginations.
Visually fleeing: bouncing our eyes away from lustful images.
Physically fleeing: walking (or running) away from tempting situations.

Pursuing
Righteousness (real integrity, a passion for justice, and a life pleasing to God)
Faith (strong and welcome conviction and trust in God)
Love (benevolent affection toward God and others)
Peace (tranquility in the heart and harmony with God and others)

Run With
. . . along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Amen!



We pray for being successful in performing the Double duty of Christians - fleeing from sin and pursuing righteousness.
PHOTO: We pray for being successful in performing the Double duty of Christians - fleeing from sin and pursuing righteousness.  It is the ruthless rejection of the one in combination with the relentless pursuit of the other which Scripture enjoins (instruct or urge (someone) to do something) upon us as the secret of holiness.
Posted by Gabrielle Bernstein on 2 December 2014
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Reflection - Double duty of Christians
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Reference
[1] From "Faithful to the end" A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, Copyright © 2014 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-241-0, PART TWO: USEFUL TO CHRIST, Chapter 7 "Ministering to the lost" (2 Timothy 2:20-26), Page 96-101.

[2] From "Faithful to the end" A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, Copyright © 2014 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-241-0, PART TWO: USEFUL TO CHRIST, Chapter 7 "Ministering to the lost" (2 Timothy 2:20-26), Page 101-102.

[3] Ibid (Latin, short for ibidem, meaning in the same source (used to save space in textual references to a quoted work which has been mentioned in a previous reference, endnote or footnote)). Stott, The Message of 2 Timothy, 75.

[3a] Mounce, Pass It On, 1 and 2 Timothy, 131.

[3b] Stott, The Message of 2 Timothy, 75.

[4] Biblical Strategies for Fighting Lust , by Luke Gilkerson, Educational Resource Manager, http://www.covenanteyes.com/2010/05/13/3-biblical-strategies-for-fighting-lust/

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