This Chapter Series is from the Book – “Take Me Out With The Crowd”
Welcome to the Continuation of The Game Changer!
Today, we continue our journey, exploring how your passion for sports intersects with your faith. In this chapter, we will delve deeper into how your love for sports can both inspire and challenge your spiritual life.
This chapter isn’t about criticizing sports fandom but finding a meaningful balance between your enthusiasm for sports and your spiritual commitments. We’ll examine how sports can be a source of joy and connection and discover ways to channel that passion to enhance your faith rather than overshadow it.
As we navigate this exploration together, we will uncover fresh insights into how sports can coexist with and even enrich your spiritual life. Our goal is to approach this with grace and wisdom, helping you find a harmonious balance that honors both your love for the game and your spiritual path.
I believe this message is inspired by the divine, and my hope is that it will bring inspiration and change into your life. Let’s continue discovering how sports can be a Game Changer in your spiritual journey. Welcome to the next step of our enlightening adventure!
The Game Changer Part Three
The story of Jesus teaches us a profound lesson about the power of following the crowd. Initially, the people were filled with love for Jesus and worshipped Him. They came to Him seeking healing and miracles because they truly believed in His power. However, a dramatic shift occurred when the religious leaders and the influence of the crowd took hold.
Suddenly, those same people who had praised Jesus with chants of “Hosanna!” turned against Him. They condemned Him, hurling insults such as “liar!” and “crucify Him!” The atmosphere became filled with evil and hatred, as rocks were thrown, and spit flew through the air.
This transformation is a stark reminder of the dangers of blindly following others without critical thinking. The once adoring crowd allowed themselves to be swayed by the religious leaders, leading to the betrayal of Jesus. Their faith was easily shaken, and they succumbed to the power of the crowd’s influence.
This cautionary tale urges us to reflect on the consequences of our actions when we follow the crowd without questioning their motives. It reminds us to stay true to our beliefs and not be swayed by the shifting tides of popular opinion. The story of the people’s betrayal of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder to always think independently and act in accordance with our own convictions, rather than succumbing to the pressures of the crowd.
Are we any different from the people who condemned Jesus after adoring Him when we are watching or even playing sports? It is a thought-provoking question that forces us to reflect on our behavior and attitudes. While trash-talking has become commonplace in sports, it is essential to consider if we are being mindful in our words and actions.
Trash-talking can be seen as a part of competitive sports, and many of us may even excel at it. However, we need to ask ourselves if we are aware of the impact of our trash-talk. Are we watching our language and avoiding the use of vulgar or offensive words? It is crucial to be mindful of the language we use, especially when we are in a public setting like a stadium, court, or field.
Ephesians 4:29 – New International Version – (NIV)
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Furthermore, we must examine if our trash-talk is crossing a line and provoking fights or conflicts. While banter and rivalry are natural in sports, it is essential to maintain a level of respect and sportsmanship. The words and actions we use can have a profound impact on those around us, including our teammates, adversaries, spectators, friends, and family.
To Be Continued …
Coming Soon – Revised Edition Part Four
Willie Torres Jr.
09/09/2024
If you feel inspired and uplifted by this content, please consider supporting my work at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/willie13. Every contribution helps me create more of what you enjoy!
If you are finding this story captivating, stay tuned for more tales in my upcoming works. You can also delve deeper into this and similar narratives in my book, “Take Me Out With The Crowd,” accessible on various platforms such as Amazon, Books-A-Million, Google Books, and Barnes and Noble. Explore a collection of stories and testimonies crafted for your enjoyment, edification, and study. Dive into the richness of these narratives and embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration.
When you purchase a book, you’re not just supporting me financially, but you’re also providing the encouragement I need to continue following God’s calling. Your support means the world to me. Thank you sincerely.
Willie Torres Jr. 
72 responses to “The Game Changer -3”
How often, we build up our heroes only to later tear them down. Even Jesus (:
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Exactly … Your comment perfectly captures the essence of the entire chapter in just one sentence.
Thank you for Reading and Commenting.
God Bless You today and always. Have a Wonderful Week.
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Your blog post does a great job of intertwining sports with faith, using the story of Jesus to highlight the importance of staying true to one’s convictions despite external pressures. The examination of trash-talking in sports against the backdrop of Ephesians 4:29 is a thoughtful approach to promoting respect and mindfulness.👍👌🌷
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Thank you for Reading and for your Comment. I’m glad you found the connection between Sports and Religion meaningful. It’s important to me to explore how staying true to our convictions can impact our actions, both on and off the field as well as watching or playing sports.
I appreciate your insight on using Ephesians 4:29 to frame the discussion on respect and mindfulness in sports.
Your comment encourages me to continue blending these themes in my writing.
Be Blessed and Continue to be a Blessing.
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🤝👏🙏🙇🏄♂️✔️
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As believers, we must know that we will give account for every idle word (Matthew 12:36). With that in mind, we must be able to recognize the value of what we are saying and know whether or not it is necessary. We don’t always think about what we say to others, it is why we apologize for something we said to offend someone. Other times we speak in anger, being self-content that we are just in what we have said, only to find later on that it didn’t need to be said.
We should learn to have a mind like Christ, one with love and compassion; one that takes the insult and returns love and understanding for it.
“Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?” 1 Corinthians 6:7
I realize that I probably went off on a tangent, but this is what came up in my spirit. Bless you, brother.
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Thank you so much For Visiting, Reading and for sharing your thoughts and reflections on the importance of our words and actions as believers. Your post highlights a crucial aspect of living out our faith with integrity and love.
You make an excellent point about the need for careful consideration of our words and the value of speaking with kindness and compassion. Matthew 12:36 reminds us of the gravity of our words, and 1 Corinthians 6:7 challenges us to embody humility and forbearance in our interactions with others.
This is a very strong series and I only Hope that people understand and are open to receiving God’s Message.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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Amen, I take a personal comfort that God places it before those who need it. I believe that you have many followers, and not everyone can digest what you’re talking about, but it will satisfy someone who really needs an answer.
Blessings brother
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Amen
I understand that not everyone may fully grasp these posts, and honestly, I’m still learning as I go. When I pray about these issues and seek guidance from the Lord, I believe He provides answers not only for me but also so I can share them with others. This is why I started writing books, which eventually led me to WordPress.
On platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, many people seem focused on worldly matters, parties, showing off, and some event venting. Even on my Facebook ministry page, where people often like or comment with an “Amen,” I sometimes wonder if they truly received and understood the message. With my book sales, I suspect that most copies sold (which unfortunately weren’t many) were more about supporting me rather than genuinely engaging with the content or message. I believe that only a few have truly read and been touched by the books.
My goal is not for personal Recognition but to give All the Glory, Honor, and Praise to the Lord. I trust that He will reach the individuals He intends to touch, and I am simply grateful to be a vessel for His message.
Thank you again so much for your Comments and for Engaging with this important series.
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You’re welcome, Willie, I feel the same way about my few responses, but I know that it is an important work, keep up the good fight, brother, it will pay off in greater rewards.
Blessings
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Thank You 🤗🤗
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GREAT job 💓💖💚
Blessed and Happy monday 🌞
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Thank You so much.
To God Be All the Glory, Honor and Praise.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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Very good point Willie. The masses are fickle, they go out to praise their supposed leader and may end up hanging him. And one should always be mindful of being caught up in that form of “enthusiasm” that can end up in violence… And of course, what comes out of one’s mouth corrupts the soul. Bless you my brother.
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Amen 🙏🤗 Brother, Amen 🙏
God Bless You Today and Always.
Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and for sharing what was put in your heart to share with us.
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It is always a pleasure my brother! All the best!
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Same to you. Que Dios Te Bendiga.
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Ephesians 4:29 is one of my favorite verses and I love how you intertwine your message with sports. Great message, Willie!
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Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and Commenting. To God Be All the Glory, Honor and Praise.
I wish I could distill this entire series into one short paragraph, but where’s the fun in that? 😆😁🤣 The truth is, while this series is lengthy, it’s packed with insights that aim to open our hearts, minds, eyes, and ears. It’s about recognizing where we might fall short and where we need to step up to truly score a win.
Your Comment on the relationship between Sports and Religion is an invaluable contribution to this discussion, guiding us in reflecting on how these aspects influence and shape our lives and values.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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This chapter is a righteous post Willie, I find myself in a position of failing on a daily basis when trying to follow these words exactly as written. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ‘a stark reminder of the dangers of blindly following others without critical thinking.’
I can only have the faith placed in my heart from our savior concerning my entry into heaven. I try not to judge others beliefs as this is a sin to me. Asking for forgiveness is something I do multiple times on a daily basis and hopefully Gods grace will shine on me on judgement day and I hope you are not offended by this comment. With that said what’s up with ‘Resisting the Tide? I hope it only applies to blindly following someone or thing, kinda like the ducks! love ya brother.
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Thank you so much for Reading and for sharing your thoughtful comment your reflections. Your honesty about the challenges of living out these teachings is something many of us can relate to, and it’s encouraging to see your commitment to seeking forgiveness and striving to align your actions with your faith.
Ephesians 4:29 is indeed a powerful reminder of the impact our words can have and the importance of using them to uplift and encourage others. It’s a call to be mindful of how we communicate and to focus on what truly benefits those around us.
Regarding “Resisting the Tide,” I appreciate your good-natured approach to the pun—or perhaps it was intentional, haha! In any case, I see “Resisting the Tide” as a metaphor for standing firm in our values and beliefs, especially in a world that often pressures us to conform. It’s about being thoughtful and discerning, rather than following the crowd without question.
I’m not at all offended by your comment. In fact, your openness and willingness to engage in these discussions are valued and appreciated. We’re all on this journey together, and it’s through sharing and reflecting that we can grow in our faith and understanding. We are all Growing In Christ Together.
Love you Brother, and Thank you again for your kind and engaging response.
Be Blessed and Continue to be a Blessing.
You Are Loved.
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An excellent perspective on the dense energies caused by competitions in sports. I believe that sports are healthy for the body and mind and we feel more vigorous and grateful to God. But, as you mentioned, it is necessary to analyze how we are conducting sports in our lives. Competitions are not healthy and do not please God, because in order to win the game we are wishing the other person would lose, in addition to the feelings of anger and harsh words. Thank you, I wrote a lot. God bless! 😉🙌🏻✨
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Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and for your Insightful Response.
I’m grateful for your perspective on how sports can be both a blessing and a challenge. While they contribute to our physical and mental well-being, it’s important to reflect on how we approach them. As you pointed out, the competitive spirit can sometimes lead to negative feelings and attitudes, which we should be mindful of.
No need to apologize, I genuinely appreciate your Engagement and Comment on this Series.
May God Bless you, today and always, and thank you for sharing your thoughts.
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It is a great lesson to change the rules of the game and direct the masses to adhere to the rules of etiquette and adhere to God’s teachings
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I really like what you’re saying. Changing the way things are done and encouraging everyone to follow good manners and spiritual teachings can make a big difference. It’s amazing how adjusting our approach and sticking to these values can lead to more respect and harmony.
Thanks for pointing that out, it’s a great reminder of how important it is to lead by example.
Thank you so much for Reading and Sharing your Thoughts, Dear Sister.
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Thank you for the good participation. I wish you good luck, happiness and success, my dear brother Willy Torres, for you and your family. 🥰🙋🏻♀️🌺🌺
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Thank you. May the Lord Bless You and Your Family as well; today and always.
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It’s wild how quickly the crowds can turn against someone. You’re absolutely right to point out the dangers of blindly following someone and how we need to be able to think critically for ourselves.
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Amen 🙏🤗
To God Be All the Glory, Honor and Praise.
Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and Commenting.
God Bless You today and always.
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profound thoughts shared, Willie…
bless url 🙏🤍
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Thank you so much for Reading and Commenting. To God Be the Glory, Honor and Praise.
Blessings to you today and always.
You Are Loved.
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pleasure and thank you too, Willie 🤍🙏
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This is really cool, Willie! I love how you’re looking at how our love for sports and our faith can go hand in hand. It’s a great reminder to keep things respectful and stay true to our beliefs, even when we’re caught up in the game.
Wishing you a blessed and wonderful day!🤗🌷✨
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Amen 🙏🤗 Sister.
Thank you so much for Reading and Commenting.
This series addresses a challenging topic, especially for those who might feel convicted by it. My intention is not to criticize sports or condemn anyone but to share what the Lord places on my heart. I observe these issues frequently, and as the series progresses, it will delve even deeper.
I believe that enjoying sports is not inherently wrong, but !!! and yes, there is a but, we must ask ourselves important questions: Are we prioritizing these events over God? Do we love sports, our teams, and athletes more than we love Him? Are we spending more on games, memorabilia, and gatherings than we give back to God? These are the questions meant to challenge us and reveal whether we might be guilty of idolatry.
Just as I mentioned in your blog post, we should reflect on whether we truly love the Lord above all else, as Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me? Feed My sheep.” Are we placing God first, or is He secondary to our passions and interests?
Thank you again for the Comment.
Be Blessed and Continue to be a Blessing.
God Bless You Sister.
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AMEN to all of that. I no longer want to identify myself by a sports team, or any brand other than a Child of God. Thank you for the scripture and verse on foul language. I think it’s an outlet to vent rage that only the Creator can heal, and God is willing to listen to all our feelings.
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Amen 🙏🤗
Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading, and Commenting on my post. I appreciate your engagement! Just to clarify, this is part 3 of The Game Changer Series. If you haven’t been following this series, the previous parts are listed in the section above, or you can check my blog for the first 2 parts. There’s another continuation coming, possibly next week. This series will be lengthy, but I feel it’s an important topic that needs thorough exploration.
Many people are aware of these issues but may not see the errors in their ways, while others might be too unaware to hear the truth. As long as the Lord provides me with the Words and Direction, I will continue to share what He places on my heart. My Hope is that no one feels offended, and for those who might feel convicted, that they seek the change needed.
May the Lord Bless you, today and always.
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The Truth will reach those with the eyes to see and the ears to hear. Some people need to be offended by the Truth to raise the question. Blessings on your work – I’ll check out the series as I’m able. THANK YOU again.
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Amen
Thank you, Looking forward to your thoughts.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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Words coming out of mouth should be thought upon carefully before. A balance is a need. A balance inside is helpful for the balance outside.
Thank you for this enriching post. A great way to explain.
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Thank you for your Visiting, Reading and for your thoughtful Response. I’m glad you found the post on The Game Changer enriching. I completely agree, careful consideration of our words and finding balance within ourselves can truly impact how we interact with the world.
God Bless You today and always. Your insight is much appreciated.
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: ) : )
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Beautiful post! It’s a powerful reminder to stay true to our values and be thoughtful about our actions and words.☺️🌻
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Amen 🙏🤗
Thank you so much for the Visit, for Reading and for The Comment.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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So when I used to teach skating in CO and would walk into the rink where hockey was being taught I would cringe at the words being said to young boys. It was awful. It bothered me so much that I started teaching Hockey 1 & 2 so I could have some influence. Boys need just as much encouragement as girls do. I loved doing it and it is one of my most fav memories.
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I wish there were a way for schools or youth sports programs to distribute my book Take Me Out With The Crowd to young athletes, as it offers valuable lessons for them. Often, parents don’t push such resources because we ourselves are influenced by the competitive mindset we teach—where “winning is everything,” there’s “no room for second place,” and “doing whatever it takes to come out on top” is encouraged. We set high expectations and fail to set boundaries on competition. We need to be the example of positive behavior and prioritize putting God first. This series tackles crucial issues, and though I still don’t fully understand why God chose or called me to write this book, I trust that there is a purpose behind it. I’m surprised it hasn’t gained more attention, not for the sake of sales, but because it addresses common issues we all face. Without engaging with this message, change remains elusive.
Thank you so much for Reading and sharing your story . Thank you for your kindness and support.
God Bless You today and always.
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Oh wow, I could have used it when I was coaching! I used to tell my students that you really don’t learn anything at the top of the podium. You learn everything at the bottom or when you come in last. Yes competition is a whole other “thing”. I never liked it……..ever. Judges are biased and coaches in general favor certain students. It’s all due to our fallen nature. I just tried to follow what GOD told me to say to my students to be encouraging and loving. Some of us were like a family with one another. GOD even sent me another believer who was my choreographer. We loved working together. Yes blessings on your Sunday and Adam’s message on Ephesians and GRACE was amazing yesterday. I couldn’t write fast enough! YOU ARE LOVED!
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BUON GIORNO
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Good Morning and Happy and Blessed Day 🤗
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GRAZIE, CONTRACCAMBIATO
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Um texto muito inspirado baseado no equilíbrio entre as competições esportivas e o compromisso com a vida espiritual, com Deus. Realmente, precisamos estar mais próximos de Deus para sermos pessoas melhores e consequentemente termos discernimento e fazer dos esportes algo saudável, sem idolatrias e brigas. Obrigado por compartilhar prévias de seu livro. 😉🇯🇵🙏
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A very inspired text based on the balance between sports competitions and the commitment to spiritual life, to God. In fact, we need to be closer to God to be better people and consequently have discernment and make sports something healthy, without idolatry and fights. Thank you for sharing previews of your book. 😉🇯🇵🙏
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Thank you for your unwavering Support, Encouragement, and Kindness. I’m so Grateful for you. May the Lord continue to Bless you with Hope, Mercy, Grace, and His Enduring Love.
You Are Loved 🤗❤️
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Obrigado pelo seu apoio incondicional, incentivo e bondade. Estou muito grato por você. Que o Senhor continue a abençoá-lo com esperança, misericórdia, graça e Seu amor eterno.
“Você é Amada” 🤗❤️
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Great post 🌹🌹
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Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and Commenting.
Blessings to you today and always.
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It’s never a good plan to follow people blindly or support anything human-made unilaterally. We must endeavor to be as fully informed and aware as possible. Good connections between faith and sports. 🙏
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Amen 🙏🤗
Thank you so much for Visiting, Reading and for sharing your Insightful Comment.
This series, “The Game Changer,” from my book, “Take Me Out With The Crowd,” is likely to stir a range of reactions. It may open the eyes, ears, minds, and hearts of some, while it might also challenge or convict others. Some may find it laughable or dismiss it as trivial, but my hope is that the Lord will touch the hearts of those He intends to reach. For those who may not yet understand, I want to clarify that my intention is not to condemn sports or anyone, but to offer insights and provoke thoughtful reflection. May this series be a catalyst for growth and understanding, guided by grace and truth.
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😍🙏🏻👋🏻💚💚Happy, blessed Friday to you, Lord
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Happy and Blessed Weekend to you and your Family.
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This is a great post, worth a read for everyone! 💞
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Thank you so much for Reading and for your Heartfelt Comment! This series is quite lengthy, and I worry that some parts might be challenging for readers, but I hope everyone sticks with it and embraces the message. I truly appreciate your feedback.
Have you had a chance to read the first two parts? I plan to post the fourth part in a few days, and as it’s a long series, I hope you’ll continue to join us on this journey. Thanks again for your support.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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I will go back and catch up with the first two parts. Your posts are always positive and enlightening! 💯
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Powerful post. Thanks for sharing.
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To God Be the Glory, Honor and Praise.
Thank You so much for Visiting, Reading and Commenting.
God Bless You today and always.
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What a awesome GOD we serve. Without him I’m nothing.
Continue doing what you love.
May GOD blessings continue to shine upon you.
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Amen 🙏🤗 Amen 🙏🤗
Thank you so much for your Kindness and Encouragement and Thank you for Reading and Commenting.
May the Lord Be Glorified and Praised.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing.
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wow!! 74The Game Changer -4
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I love the art work that you put in your articles. You are very gifted in that area of your sharing of thoughts.
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Thank you so much for that Heartfelt Comment. To God be All the Glory, Honor and Praise for I am but a humble servant. I truly appreciate your time to Read and Comment. Have a Blessed Day and know that You Are Loved.
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Thank you; you are very kind.
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You are very welcome
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