One of the most remarkable aspects of Scripture is how God can take historic events and use them to point to massive spiritual realities. For example, in Exodus 16 God provided manna for the people of Israel to feed them daily. This was about more than just physical provision; it shows us that “Man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD” (Deuteronomy 8:3). It gives context to the Lord’s prayer, “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11).
In much the same way, we encounter the historic empire of Babylon in the Old Testament—they fought against Israel and eventually conquered and exiled God’s people. Those events led to the destruction of the temple, the displacement of the people from the promised land, and the fulfillment of God’s judgment for Israel’s rebellion. But Babylon is also representative of something even greater, even to a cosmic scale, as we find in Revelation 18.
An angel (that is, a messenger from God) loudly celebrates the destruction of Babylon—but he wasn’t referring to the fall of the Mesopatamian empire that conquered Israel. Babylon, throughout much of the Bible and especially in apocalyptic writings, represents the kingdom of rebellion against God. This is why the people of God are called out of Babylon (Revelation 18:4), not because we are citizens of this evil kingdom but because we are residents of a fallen world. In Isaiah 52:11, the people of God were called out in a similar fashion and told to “purify yourselves, you who carry the vessels of the LORD.”
So in Revelation 18, the angel is not merely encouraging God’s people to distance from this evil kingdom. We are reminded to be set apart to serve as priests in the presence of God. After God destroys Babylon, He establishes the new Jerusalem and resides there with His people (Revelation 19–22). We are all true citizens of that new kingdom, servants in the presence of our God.
Revelation 18 is a celebration of the final fall of evil, the destruction and judgment of all earthly opposition to Jesus in souls, societies, and kingdoms. It highlights the rulers and merchants, meaning those who have gained wealth and power by rebelling against God and have done so at the expense of God’s people (Jeremiah 51:49, Revelation 18:5). The promises of this chapter are why we can have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice or persecution. This is why we aren’t hopeless when the world around us seems to be growing in rebellion against God. He will bring judgment, and all God’s people are called to celebrate Babylon’s downfall: “Rejoice over her, heaven, and you saints, apostles, and prophets, because God has pronounced on her the judgment she passed on you!” (v.20). We rejoice in our God’s victory and perfect justice.
Written by Barnabas Piper
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105 thoughts on "The Fall of Babylon"
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“Come out of her, my people, so that upu will not share her sins….” vs 4
Goodness, we are living in a state and time of Babylon, aren’t we? The call and response from us is so much more than just coming out from that but to fully pursue true holiness. This chapter again feels heavy but with countless reminders that God’s justice and judgements will prevail, that there is hope. This portion of the devotional also stood out to me as it did for a few of you.
“The promises of this chapter are why we can have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice or persecution. This is why we aren’t hopeless when the world around us seems to be growing in rebellion against God. He will bring judgment, and all God’s people are called to celebrate Babylon’s downfall.”
Great words of encouragement and also appreciation all of your thoughts and insights for today. May we press on to be steadfast, confident and the Lord find us faithful.❤️
Called out to be all in with Jesus! Love how God calls us out be a light for others. Reading this book has been challenging and so beautiful as I have been reminded once again of the love of God and how He is faithful to those who belong to Him.
Hello, popping in to catch up on today’s comments and to give you a praise! Shalan received favor from the judge today! The judge even encouraged her and said she was giving her a hug across the room! Praise God!
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Amazing! What a beautiful kindness. thank you Lord ❤️
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Wonderful!! ♥️♥️♥️
Wow!!!
Come out of her, my people. Revelation 18:4… I just love that!
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He takes care of us. Let us remain women that He loves to rescue. Let’s make sure we are IN the world and not OF IT!
It has been suggested that Babylon the Great could be the United States. The US does not seem to appear in end-time prophecies. What happened to us? I read chapter 18 with that setting. We see our political system becoming more and more evil, both sides. Many politicians are taking advantage of their power to enrich themselves. Our society has become so self indulgent that people are willing to use evil means to gratify their desires. Our country has used money to fund abortions in other countries. Money has also been used for sex changes in other countries. It talks of other nations “drinking the wine of her adulteries.” Something to think about. It may be a sneak preview of the coming world order which I’m sure the US will play a part. Maybe we are just getting an appetizer of things to come. Praise God for the victory we have as God’s people. May we not be deceived and stay faithful to the end.
I agree, Elaine, that the US is not behaving properly!
I was thinking the same about the US but then I listened to the podcast with Lisa Harper which gave me a totally different perspective. Definitely eye opening!
I think a far bigger issue than abortions or sex changes (which are in some cases medically necessary to save lives), is the moral corruption among so many of our nation’s leaders, who will do anything to stay in power, including what they have stated in the past is morally wrong. Jesus never spoke about abortion or sex changes, but he spoke extensively about how we treat our neighbors and about caring for the poor and the immigrant and orphans and widows. Our government is far more concerned about helping the rich get richer than about following the very basic commands Jesus gave to his followers.
Yes! The immortal politicians are evil! I am sick of it. I am sick of abortion (destroying lives/God’s creation -I understand sometimes the mother’s life is in danger, but most of them time it isn’t) and sex changes (destroying lives/God’s creation) too. Babylon had a myriad of sins, not just certain categories. Evil is evil. Sin is sin in God’s eyes. The old testament talks about a lot of situations and Jesus believed it. He called us to higher living; He wanted us to know the Father’s heart for us. “Little“ sins in our lives lead to “bigger” ones. Sin is ugly and blinds us from what God wants. There is forgiveness for all of these sins. The sad thing is that Babylon did not repent and then was destroyed. In any case, one side is not more right than the other. Let’s continue to work on being citizens of God’s kingdom; We should hold onto His truth with eyes open than picking sides in Babylon.
Today’s reading really helped me to stay positive. To feel at peace. To not loose hope as I see so much rebellion in this world. To remember that God is victorious.
” God warns his people to “come out”of Babylon (18:4). This is a call to holiness, but we must not misunderstand holiness. Holiness is not simply a matter of avoiding certain kinds of activities,as some traditional churches have emphasized; holiness is separation from world to God. Thus one can express holiness by immersing oneself in God’s word rather than in the world’s values emphasized by social media; or by turning down a better- paying job because someone felt God wanted him to work in a different place,perhaps among the poor. Such holiness may cost us our place in Babylon and much more.”
NIV Application Commentary on the Bible
Caribbean Medley Lyrics by Donnie McClurkin
Clean LyricParagraph Lyric
Well we gon’ sing us some Jamaican songs
Chorus:
I’ve got my mind made up
And I won’t turn back
Because I want to see my Jesus someday
I’ve got my mind made up
And I won’t turn back
Because I want to see my Jesus someday
(Repeat 2x)
They say this goodbye world
I stay no longer with you
Goodbye pleasures of sin
I stay no longer with you
I’ve made up my mind to go that way the rest of my life
I’ve made up my mind to go that way the rest of my life
(repeat 2x)
They say born born born again
Thank God I’m born again
Everybody say born born born again
Thank God i’m born again
Try it again say born born born again
Thank God i’m born again
Let me hear you say it now
Born born born again
Thank God i’m born again
They used to say
Born of the water spirit and the Lord
Thank God I’m born again
Just say it now
Born of the water spirit and the Lord
Thank God I’m born again
Sat it again say it
Born of the water spirit and the Lord
Thank God I’m born again
Yes I am yes I am
Born of the water spirit and the Lord
Thank God I’m born again
(Chorus)
They say I am under the rock
The rock is higher than I
Jehovah hide me I am under the rock
Go tell my enemies
I am under the rock
Jehovah hide me I am under the rock
Say Jesus name’s so sweet
Emanuel name’s so sweet
Say now Jesus name’s so sweet
Emanuel name’s so sweet
Jesus name’s so sweet
Emanuel name’s so sweet
Jesus name’s so sweet
Emanuel name’s so sweet
Every rock me rock upon Jesus
Jesus name’s so sweet
Say every rock me rock upon Jesus
Jesus name’s so sweet
Every rock me rock upon Jesus
Jesus name’s so sweet
(Chorus)
We say it like this we say
Oh I want to see him, look upon his face
There to sing forever, of his saving grace
On those streets of glory, let me lift my voice
All my cares have past, home at last, ever to rejoyce
(repeat2x)
(Repeat Chorus 2x)
Fire fire fire fire fall on me
Fire fire fire fire fall on me
Just like on the day of Penticus the fire fall on me
On the day od Penticus the fire fall on me
(repeat until fade)
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Good words, Tanya.
Today’s reading was so encouraging to stay strong in faith and know our God has already won!
Beautiful comments today! You have blessed me!
Praying for all!
Stand fast til the end and always choose Jesus over this world!
It’s so reassuring to see so many of you latch on to “The promises of this chapter are why we can have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice or persecution. This is why we aren’t hopeless when the world around s seems to be growing in rebellion against God.”
It was such a needed reminder of the hope we have and the confidence we can stand on that God is truly just and will exact it someday.
Yesterday was a BATTLE in my little world. All I could do was pray for a miracle and wouldn’t you know – by the time I was falling asleep at the end of the day I realized He had indeed shown up and blessed me in ways only He could have.
Happy Tuesday, Sweet She’s!
How wonderful, Miss Molly!
To God be the glory!
Amen! ❤️
SO much here this morning. Called out because we are residents of a fallen world. When things go sour, I’ve always kept in mind I am a sinful person living in a fallen world, why would I expect perfection, I can’t. BUT God…We are citizens of the New Kingdom. Loved when I read, the promises of this chapter are “why” we have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice (and there’s been a lot lately) or persecution. HE will bring judgement. He will take better care it then if we were to take matters in our in hands. Better HIS hands than mine. Today is our last day before Thanksgiving Break. I’m going to miss those little munchkins! Wish you could see how cute they are and love SO much! Happy Tuesday sweet She’s.
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I have been enjoying this study and all your insights. They have helped me to understand so much.
I have been so busy with here with my daughter and the grandkids I haven’t had any time to even read the devotion till I get home at night and especially an update on Joann whom you have been praying for.
She only allows her friend Pat to see her, so I rely on her for updates. Pat was called to the hospital twice last week because Jo has a UTI which is making her delirious. If all goes well with the antibiotics working for her, they found her a rehabilitation center in Schenectady NY which is about 4-5 hours from her home. Still no movement in her body. Praying God works miracles in rehab.
praying, Therese, for Joann, for healing and for her team of therapists. Praying family and friends (if she will accept) can visit regularly to confirm her daily care needs are being met in addition to her therapy needs.
Thank you, Searching. We all want to see her but honor her request for no visitors at this time. I hope once she settles, she will let friends come.
“The promises of this chapter are why we can have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice or persecution. This is why we aren’t hopeless when the world around us seems to be growing in rebellion against God. He will bring judgment, and all God’s people are called to celebrate Babylon’s downfall.”
Verse 20 was the ‘focal passage’ for me today so I am glad to see Barnabus use it in closing!
THANK YOU BARNABUS PIPER for your clear and concise devo!
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Sisters, if you have time, go back and read Jeremiah 50 as well. Wow!
v. 8-10
“Flee out of Babylon;
leave the land of the Babylonians,
and be like the goats that lead the flock.
9 For I will stir up and bring against Babylon
an alliance of great nations from the land of the north.
They will take up their positions against her,
and from the north she will be captured.
Their arrows will be like skilled warriors
who do not return empty-handed.
10 So Babylonia[b] will be plundered;
all who plunder her will have their fill,”
declares the Lord.
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Notes:
Wiersbe Study Bible
“This admonition parallels Jeremiah 50:8 and 51:6, 45. In all ages, God’s true people have had to separate themselves from that which is worldly and anti-God. When God called Abraham, He ordered him to get out of his country (Gen. 12:1). God separated the Jewish nation from Egypt and warned the Israelites not to go back. The church today is commanded to separate itself from that which is ungodly (Rom. 16:17–18; 2 Cor. 6:14—7:1).
we are commanded to rejoice at the overthrow of Babylon, because in this judgment God will vindicate His servants who were martyred (see 6:9–11).
18-20-
We must not think that this voice of celebration calls us to be glad because sinners are judged. The fact of divine judgment ought always to break our hearts, knowing that lost sinners are condemned to eternal punishment. The joy in this section centers on God’s righteous judgment, the fact that justice has been done. Comfortable Bible students can easily discuss these matters in their homes. If we were with John on Patmos or with the suffering saints to whom he wrote, we might have a different perspective. We must never cultivate personal revenge (Rom. 12:17–21), but we must rejoice at the righteous judgments of God.”
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Gotta run!! No time to proofread!
Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
Thank you for the research! ❤️
Yes thank you!
❤ You’re most welcome, sisters! I ran out of time, but I will have to read through the commentaries again to see what I missed. ❤
I’m thankful to serve a God of justice. He doesn’t sit idly by when we are hurting or the world comes against us. He will repay. He will do whatever the just thing is. He has us in the palm of His hand!
Amen
It is so difficult to be in this world and not of it! I do my best to “fit in”, but I always stand out. I don’t drink, smoke, or partake in activities most people in their 20s do. I used to feel sad that I wasn’t more adventurous, but now I see what a blessing it is to know I never had to try those things because I knew deep down that they would never satisfy like Jesus!
Amen, Susan! You have been protected from the consequences of this world’s sins!
So wise, Susan. ❤️ I could’ve saved myself a lot of problems and heartache if I had been as wise as you are.
Me too… you are very wise, Susan. ❤️
Your comment brings joy to my heart. I was just in Nashville over the weekend and couldn’t believe the behavior of so many young people. Clothes that didn’t cover areas it should. Drunkenness. I felt sorry for them. They probably just want to fit in and it is what so many are doing. But at 64 I know the heartache, pain, sadness all those behaviors bring. The shame as I was one of these young people so many years ago. Susan keep you eyes up for you will be blessed. God’s love will envelop you and be enough. Then you will see God’s blessings surrounding you.
Yes, so agree Traci. It’s sad to look at the behaviors and know that they really don’t even get it. The things we do to fit in, drinking to belong- but always leave us empty. You said it perfectly “I know the pain, sadness, and heartache all those behaviors bring.” I think that’s why I have a heart for going to jail…they are just trying to make it, and end up worse. They truly get there, and it’s their chance to FIND Jesus! Or rather accept his calling!
Brilliantly spoken, dear Susan!!
Praise God for His justice.
“The promises of this chapter are why we can have confidence and faith even in the face of injustice or persecution.”
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One day God will right all the wrongs of this world. This is the one thing that gives me peace in this fallen world. The battle has already been won – Jesus is the victor! Knowing this, I must not let the way of the world that we live in weigh me down. Justice is coming and one day we will celebrate!
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Happy Tuesday She’s!
I have been weary lately. Seeking employment as I pursue my LCSW. My car does not have tags on them due to a toll bill I’m working on. I miss road trips and visiting places and people that bring me joy. I’ve been in a restful place but lately I feel like there’s not much traction. My daughter and her children returned home so it’s extra tight here yet it’s been a joy. Pray for my weariness to be release as I pursue God’s purpose and my assignment. In Jesus name. Amen❤️
This reading and study of Revelation has been insightful. We definitely rejoice in our Gods victory and perfect justice in his timing. I’m glad I’ve returned to SRT.
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In my prayers, sweet sister.
Praying for you!! May the Lord bless you & your family! He will make a way!
Praying, Latrilla, may God continue to provide all you need during this difficult season in your life.
Praying for the weariness to be lifted, provision for sorting out the toll ❤️
Thanks sis. Amen.
Praying g ft or you and your family.
Praying ❤️
Dear Latricia
May you find rest & release from troubles – under His wings.
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Thanks sis.
Lord, thank You for being God over everything.
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Nothing is outside Your control, and that gives me so much peace.
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You see what I can’t see, You rule over what I can’t touch, and You hold the whole world in Your hands.
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Thank You for being so patient with me—
for being merciful when I fall short,
for forgiving sins I can’t undo,
for loving me in ways I don’t deserve.
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Thank You that You save and keep Your people,
that You don’t forget us or abandon us,
and that You always know how to lead us home.
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I’m grateful that You judge the sin and evil in this world.
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Nothing gets past You.
Nothing is ignored.
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You deal with what’s wrong with perfect justice and perfect timing, and You protect Your own even when everything feels shaken.
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Thank You that in the end, You win.
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You always prevail.
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Your kingdom stands, Your truth lasts,
and Your promises never fail.
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Lord, thank You for being who You are—
sovereign, merciful, forgiving, just, and victorious.
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I trust You, and I’m grateful to belong to You.
Amen.
Amen!
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This is a beautiful prayer Kimberly, I wrote it all down in my book. Thank you!
Thank you for the beautiful prayer, Kimberly
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Yes, Kimberly!
His Kingdom stands…
“sovereign, merciful, forgiving, just, victorious”!
I am so thankful for the hope that we carry because we know that victory belongs to our God!
Amen ❤️
Come out of her “Tami”, so that you will not share on her sins or receive any of her plagues. Lord, help me to distance myself from the things of this world that draw me in, some that I am aware of, others just “seep” in. Forgive me when I share in her sins. Amen.
Amen ❤️
Amen! ❤
Amen! ❤️
So grateful for the reminder that we are to keep hope even when the world around us seems to grow in rebellion against God daily. Once day the final judgment will come for evil and all who oppose Jesus will fall.
Praying for our family members and loved ones who still need to repent and accept salvation before it’s too late!
May we go out spreading the gospel and rejoicing in God’s victory and perfect justice!
Yes!
Yes. Amen
“We rejoice in our God’s victory and perfect justice.”
John saw an “angel with great authority coming down from heaven, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor.”
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I wonder if that angel was Gabriel or Michael…
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So thankful to have been called out of the kingdom of rebellion against God. Thank You, Lord, that Your call continues to go out, drawing more people to Your kingdom of Light and Love.
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UPDATE: City’s building dept has “approved” our plumber of choice and repair plan. So after paying their fees we can move forward.
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RHONDA J – thinking of your butterflies today and God’s call to them to come out from the world’s ways and into His marvelous light. May Holy Spirit continue to strengthen you to shine that light on their paths and encourage them to take the next right step away from the lure of Babylon
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Praying for the tender hearts of those grieving.
So happy to hear the plan has been approved!!
Oh Kelly, how could you know that I was pausing throughout reading today and listening to the radio teaching….thinking of our butterflies. What can I teach, why can’t I say these great things I hear, Lord, help me with the lessons and words. I keep going back and forth on what to teach for tomorrow’s Thanksgiving time. And then I scroll to your message and see my name and your words of encouragement! Thank you Lord, for putting that on Kelly’s heart! You are so dear to this community Sister!
I also go to court today with Shalan. She had a fail on a test, I am praying the judge will give favor, that it was only 1 time, and that she is trying. It would be really bad if she had to go back to jail.
AND your sentence…call them out of the world into his marvelous Light! Don’t you just know that is the theme I had decided on…”Dark to Light!?” That in all circumstances, we can be thankful that we are in HIS Light through Salvation! I might have to rename it “Darkness to Marvelous Light!”
Praying for the judge to have mercy on Shalan!
Thank you DW!
Thankful the green light, praying good progress is made!
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Glad to hear you are on the go side of repair. Whoo Hoo!!!
Praying along with your prayer mentions. ❤
Out of time already this morning …
MERCY, TANYA, CHERYL BLOW, CEE GEE, GWINETH52, MARI V, KELLY (NEO), WENDY B – such good insights and challenges on Day 15, thank you! ❤️ I’m not one to listen to podcasts so thank you GWINETH52 for sharing Team satan or Team Jesus. Easy choice, right? But when we choose Team Jesus, there is I think both a challenge and a responsibility to be a 100% team member, being alert 24/7 to keep our words, thoughts and actions in line- being discerning and on guard for what we condone and let seep into our hearts and minds, as mentioned by y’all yesterday.
May you be blessed tofay, Searching!
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Searching, the podcasts are so good! I often have to sit and take notes.
I’ve tried to listen using various tips – it’s just not something I enjoy, or can even complete – 20 min is about the max I’ve ever made, was ready to climb the walls and bailed out. Not just SRT, I feel that way about any podcast or videos …
And on the opposite end of the spectrum, there’s ADRIENNE I think who said she was a lover of all things podcast ❤️
I’m right with you, searching. I’ve tried several times with the podcasts, but soon give up. I enjoy doing my own research.
Same here on the pidcasts/persinal research! I max out at 15-20 munutes, too, and leave, intending to finish in another sitting. I maybe have actually done that once! lol
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Hahahahaha! Yes, I am a lover of podcasts! They are especially good to listen to while driving or cleaning house. To me, it’s like having the radio on… “talk” radio, but still… So much good content out there… wish you enjoyed listening to them. I really do!
Yea I love a good podcast – my commute is about 30min so can listen to SRT on my way to work:)
I have not listening to the Podcasts either this month even though I had intended to!! But I love that too- Team Jesus or Team Satan. Most people don’t really realize that if they aren’t a believer of Jesus, that they are by default of Satan and his world. They wouldn’t think they are on Team Satan, yet they are. I think that might have to be a lesson for my Wednesday ladies. It might be something easy to tell their bunkies and Pod mates that don’t want to hear about Jesus.
❤ as the saying goes ” not choosing is making a choice” – or something like that.
Truth!
Great word, Searching! As Clemson coach Dabo Swinney says- “All in!” ❤
I wonder if you podcast haters would enjoy reading transcripts of them? I haven’t even noticed if the SRT podcasts have transcripts, but it’s worth asking for if they do not.
Beautifully written.
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Thankfully.. understood.
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Gratefully received.
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Wonderfully enlightened.
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Thank you Barnabas!
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It is well.
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BUT GOD..
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AMEN.
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Happiest of Tuesdays my dears.. covered in prayers, sprinkled with warming love, and wrapped in grateful hugs for you, from across the pond..❤️❤️❤️
Praying you are feeling better!
Yes, praying Tina the Sciatica Pain has subsided in intensity and you are moving better without pain!
SWEET Tina!! I was praying for you this morning. Hope you’re feeling better! AND your comment is spot on! Exactly how I felt. Well written devotion this morning! Love you sweet lady!
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