CONFUSION ABOUT CHRISTIAN LIVING

 

CONFUSION ABOUT CHRISTIAN LIVING

(Problem & Solution)

 

Not Knowing How to Pray Meaningfully

 

Solution:
Prayer isn’t about performance — it’s about presence. Start simple: talk to God like you would a trusted friend. No script required. Jesus gave a model in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13), but He also welcomed raw honesty. Prayer is less about the right words and more about a real heart. Just begin — He’s already listening.

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Overwhelmed by All the Bible Study Plans

 

Solution:
You don’t need a complex plan to hear from God. Start with one book — maybe the Gospel of John or Psalms — and read slowly. Ask:

• What does this show me about God?

• About me?

• How can I respond?

A little daily light is better than chasing the whole lighthouse at once. Let the Word shape you, not stress you.

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Feeling Guilt for Not Tithing

 

Solution:
Tithing isn’t a guilt-driven obligation — it’s a heart posture of trust and worship (2 Corinthians 9:7). If you’re not giving right now, start by inviting God into your finances. Ask for wisdom and a cheerful heart. It’s not about a number — it’s about learning generosity, one step at a time, with grace.

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Unsure How to Apply Scripture to Real Life

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Solution:
Ask three questions as you read:

1. What does this say about God?

2. What does this reveal about me?

3. What can I do with this truth today?

 

Scripture is alive (Hebrews 4:12). Don’t just study it — sit with it, and let it speak into your decisions, relationships, and emotions. One verse applied is better than a chapter forgotten.

 

Believing They Need to Earn Salvation

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Solution:
You don’t work for salvation — you live from it. (Ephesians 2:8–9) makes it clear: it’s a gift, not a paycheck. You’re not loved because you perform — you perform because you’re loved. Jesus paid it all so you could stop trying to prove yourself. Rest in grace. Live from gratitude.

 

Confused by Contradictory Teachings

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Solution:
When teachings clash, return to Scripture — and study it in context. Use multiple translations, consult trustworthy commentaries, and ask the Holy Spirit for discernment (John 16:13). The voice of Jesus is consistent: full of grace, full of truth. If something feels manipulative or condemning, hold it up to the life and teachings of Christ.

 

Wanting to Know Jesus Personally but Unsure How

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Solution:
Knowing Jesus isn’t about a formula — it’s about relationship. Start by spending daily time with Him: in prayer, in the Gospels, in silence. Ask Him to reveal Himself. Talk with others who know Him. Over time, what feels distant will become deeply personal. He wants to be known — and He’s already near (Jeremiah 29:13).

 

Feeling Obligated to Be “Radical” but Feeling Empty

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Solution:
Radical doesn’t mean loud or extreme — it means rooted (like “radix” in Latin). You don’t have to prove your faith by doing dramatic things. True faith often looks like quiet obedience, steady presence, and deep love. Jesus never called us to burnout — He called us to abide (John 15:4–5).

 

Thinking God’s Love Must Be Earned Daily

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Solution:
God’s love is not a wage — it’s a gift. (Romans 5:8) says He loved you before you ever did anything for Him. You don’t earn it, renew it, or requalify each day. You simply receive it, again and again. Let that truth break the cycle of striving — and live as one already loved.

 

Unsure How to Hear from the Holy Spirit

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Solution:
Hearing from the Holy Spirit often starts with learning to listen — not just speak. He primarily speaks through Scripture, conviction, peace, godly counsel, and that “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12). If it aligns with Jesus’ character and doesn’t contradict Scripture, it's likely Him. Practice pausing in prayer and saying, “Holy Spirit, what are You saying?” You’ll grow in clarity over time.

 

Not Understanding Grace vs. Works

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Solution:
Grace saves you. Works show that you’ve been saved. (Ephesians 2:8–10) holds the tension: you’re saved by grace through faith, and created for good works after that. You don’t obey to earn God’s love — you obey because you already have it. Grace is the root. Works are the fruit.

 

Paralyzed by Decision-Making (What’s God’s Will?)

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Solution:
God’s will isn’t a tightrope — it’s a pathway marked by peace, wisdom, and faithfulness. Start with what you know (His Word), and make decisions with wise counsel, prayer, and trust (Proverbs 3:5–6). If it doesn’t violate Scripture and brings clarity, it may be freedom — not indecision — that He’s offering.

 

Praying Out Loud Feels Awkward

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Solution:
Awkward isn’t ungodly — it’s just human. Start small. Pray short, honest prayers aloud in safe places (a group of friends, your car, your room). Prayer is relationship, not performance. You don’t need poetic words — you just need a sincere heart. God hears stumbles as clearly as sermons (Romans 8:26).

 

Don’t Know How to Lead a Devotional

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Solution:
You don’t need a theology degree to lead devotion — just a heart pointed at Jesus.

Start simple:

• Read a Scripture.

• Ask a question.

• Share one insight.

• Invite others to respond or pray.

 

Keep it real, not rigid. Devotionals aren’t about impressing people — they’re about drawing hearts closer to God.

 

Trying to “Get It Right” but Always Failing

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Solution:
The Christian life isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress and grace. God isn’t surprised by your setbacks. When you fail, confess it, learn from it, and move forward. (Philippians 1:6) promises He will finish the work He started in you. Stop chasing perfect — pursue Jesus.

 

Confused by Spiritual Gifts and What to Do With Them

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Solution:
Spiritual gifts are meant to build others up (1 Corinthians 12–14). Start by exploring what comes naturally, excites you, or blesses others. Then ask God, “How can I use this in love?” Don’t wait for a platform — start with people. Your gift will grow as you use it in humility and service.

 

Intimidated by the Word “Disciple”

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Solution:
A disciple isn’t a superstar — it’s a student. Someone who learns from Jesus and helps others do the same. You don’t have to be perfect — just willing to follow and grow. Discipleship is a long walk in the same direction with Jesus. Start where you are. Invite someone to walk with you.

 

Unsure How to Love Others Practically

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Solution:
Love is visible — not just felt. It looks like listening well, serving consistently, forgiving often, encouraging truthfully, and showing up when it’s inconvenient. Ask God, “Who needs love today — and how can I give it?” (1 John 3:18) reminds us: love is action, not just talk.

 

Never Taught How to Study the Bible

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Solution:
Start simple and stay consistent. Use the SOAP method:

• S – Scripture: Write down a verse or two.

• O – Observation: What’s happening in the passage?

• A – Application: What does it mean for me today?

• P – Prayer: Talk to God about what you’ve learned.

 

Don’t study for information only — study to meet God in His Word (Hebrews 4:12).

 

Thinking Holiness Means Perfection

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Solution:
Holiness doesn’t mean never messing up — it means being set apart for God (1 Peter 1:15–16). It’s about direction, not flawlessness. You’re made holy by Christ’s sacrifice, not by your scorecard (Hebrews 10:10). Spiritual maturity isn’t perfection — it’s progress marked by dependence on Jesus.

 

Obsessively Repenting for Old Sins

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Solution:
If you’ve confessed and turned from it, you don’t need to relive it. (1 John 1:9) says He is faithful to forgive. Satan reminds you of what God already erased. Repentance is real — but so is grace. Don’t dig up what Jesus already buried. Walk in freedom, not guilt.

 

Doing Good Things Out of Fear, Not Love

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Solution:
God isn’t a harsh boss — He’s a loving Father. If fear is driving you, pause and ask: “What do I believe about God right now?” (1 John 4:18) says perfect love casts out fear. Obedience flows best when rooted in love, not anxiety. Serve from security, not survival.

 

Living on Spiritual Autopilot

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Solution:
If faith feels robotic, slow down and reconnect to relationship. Go back to the basics: gratitude, silence, real questions, worship without performance. Ask Jesus, “Where did I stop listening?” Don’t just read or pray out of routine — engage your heart. He wants your presence more than your polish.

 

Not Knowing When to Rest VS Serve

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Solution:
Even Jesus rested and walked away from needs (Mark 1:35–38). Let peace, not pressure, guide your rhythm. Ask: “Is this an assignment or an expectation?” God calls us to faithfulness, not burnout. Rest isn’t unspiritual — it’s essential. Sabbath isn’t a break from ministry — it’s part of it.

 

Feeling Spiritually Useless

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Solution:
No part of the Body is useless (1 Corinthians 12:22). Even if others don’t recognize your gift, God does. Start small. Love someone. Pray quietly. Serve where no one sees. Often, your most powerful ministry flows from your wounds, not your strengths. You are needed, seen, and called — even if you feel invisible.

 

Not Knowing the Difference Between Soul & Spirit

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Solution:
Your soul is your mind, will, and emotions — the seat of your personality. Your spirit is the part of you that connects with God (Romans 8:16). When you’re born again, your spirit is made new. As you grow, your soul is renewed. Understanding this helps you discern what’s emotional vs. what’s spiritual.

 

Feeling Fake in Worship

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Solution:
Worship isn’t about feeling perfect — it’s about showing up with what you do have. If you feel fake, start by being honest with God: “Here I am, messy but willing.” He values sincerity over sound (John 4:24). Even showing up in dryness is an act of worship. Don’t wait for emotion — lead your heart with truth.

 

Confused by Biblical Symbols or Parables

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Solution:
Jesus used symbols and stories to reveal deeper truths — but He also explained them to those who asked (Mark 4:34). If you’re confused, you’re not alone. Use study tools (Study Bibles, commentaries), ask leaders, and pray for clarity. The Holy Spirit loves revealing truth to the curious heart (John 16:13).

 

Not Understanding Old VS New Covenant

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Solution:
The Old Covenant was law-based — showing our need for a Savior (Galatians 3:24). The New Covenant, sealed by Jesus’ blood, offers grace, access, and Spirit-filled life (Hebrews 8:6–13). You no longer strive to earn God's acceptance — you live from it. Understanding this changes everything: from striving to abiding.

 

Believing Ministry Is Only for Pastors

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Solution:
Every believer is called to ministry — not just the pulpit (Ephesians 4:11–13). Ministry simply means serving others in Jesus’ name. Your workplace, your family, your friendships — that’s your mission field. The Spirit fills every believer for Kingdom impact. You don’t need a title to carry God’s presence.

 

Unsure If Their Faith Is Growing

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Solution:
Growth often feels subtle — not spectacular. It looks like softer responses, deeper convictions, quicker repentance, and greater love (Galatians 5:22–23). Ask: “Am I becoming more like Jesus, even slowly?” Growth isn’t about how loud your faith looks, but how deep your roots go. Stay planted.

 

Not Knowing How to Fight Temptation

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Solution:
Temptation isn’t sin — but giving in is. Jesus fought it with Scripture, not willpower (Matthew 4). Arm yourself with truth, avoid triggering environments, and bring your struggle into the light with someone you trust (James 5:16). You don’t win by being strong alone — you win by being submitted and supported.

 

Seeing Obedience as Legalism

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Solution:
Legalism obeys to be loved. True obedience obeys because it’s loved. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commands”

(John 14:15) — not to control, but to free you. Obedience isn’t oppression — it’s alignment with God’s best. Grace fuels obedience — it doesn’t replace it.

 

Desiring Revival but Not Transformation

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Solution:
Revival isn’t emotional hype — it’s deep heart change. It begins when individuals surrender, repent, and say, “Have Your way, God.” True revival leads to lifestyle change, justice, holiness, and love. Want revival? Start with personal renewal. Let it begin in you (Psalm 51:10).

 

Comparing Modern Christianity to Acts Church

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Solution:
It’s good to long for the simplicity and power of Acts — but don’t idealize it. Even that church had issues (Acts 5 & Acts 15). Instead of criticizing today’s church, ask: “How can I live out those values now?” The Spirit who empowered them empowers you. Be the kind of church you’re longing for.

 

Wanting to Live “Set Apart” but Not Weird

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Solution:
Being set apart means being aligned with God — not being socially awkward. You don’t need to be weird to be holy. Jesus was relatable and righteous. Let your distinctiveness come from love, integrity, peace, and purpose (Romans 12:2). People are drawn to authenticity, not religious theatrics.

 

Confused by Prosperity VS Suffering

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Solution:
Both blessing and hardship exist in the Christian life. Jesus promised both provision and persecution (John 16:33). Prosperity is not proof of favor, and suffering is not proof of failure. God’s presence can be found in abundance and affliction. Don’t pursue ease — pursue Jesus. He’s with you in both.

 

Unclear What Spiritual Maturity Looks Like

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Solution:
Spiritual maturity isn’t about how much you know — it’s about how much you love (1 Corinthians 13). It looks like humility, consistent obedience, deep joy, generous grace, and steady faith under pressure. Maturity shows in how you treat others, not how much theology you can quote.

 

Treating God Like a Genie

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Solution:
God isn’t here to grant wishes — He’s here to transform hearts. He wants relationship, not transactions. Prayer is not a wishlist — it’s a dialogue. Ask boldly, yes — but trust deeply. He’s not just the Giver of good things; He is the Good Thing (Psalm 73:25–26).

 

Using Spirituality to Avoid Responsibility

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Solution:
Spiritual maturity isn’t about escaping life — it’s about transforming it (Colossians 3:23–24). If prayer or “waiting on God” becomes a way to avoid hard decisions or accountability, that’s not faith — that’s fear in disguise. The Spirit empowers action. Faith walks, works, and shows up.

 

Not Knowing When to Speak or Stay Silent

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Solution:
Wisdom often lies in timing. (Ecclesiastes 3:7) says there’s a time to speak and a time to be silent. Ask the Holy Spirit daily, “Is this the moment to speak, or to listen?” If love is your motive and peace follows, speak with grace. But if pride or impulse leads, it may be time to pause.

 

Feeling Like Their Daily Life Has No Spiritual Value

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Solution:
Every task becomes holy when done unto the Lord (1 Corinthians 10:31). Changing diapers, making spreadsheets, cooking dinner — it all becomes sacred when surrendered to Christ. Don’t chase “big ministry” to feel valuable. Abide, and let your life preach quietly through consistency, integrity, and presence.

 

Believing God Is Distant When Things Go Wrong

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Solution:
Feelings lie — God doesn’t. (Psalm 34:18) says He is close to the brokenhearted. Even when He feels far, He’s never left (Hebrews 13:5). Doubt and disaster don’t push Him away — they draw Him closer. Don’t judge His presence by your pain. Look for Him in the quiet, not just the rescue.

 

Misunderstanding What “Dying to Self” Means

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Solution:
“Dying to self” isn’t about becoming less human — it’s about laying down pride, control, and ego to become more like Jesus (Galatians 2:20). It’s not self-hatred — it’s self-surrender. You don’t lose your identity; you discover your true one in Him. It’s a death that leads to life.

 

Treating Bible Study Like Homework

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Solution:
God’s Word isn’t a textbook — it’s a love letter, a mirror, a feast (Hebrews 4:12). If study feels dry, shift your posture: ask, “God, what do You want me to see today?” Approach Scripture relationally, not religiously. It’s not about mastering the Word — it’s about being mastered by it.

 

Struggling to Trust Scripture That Feels Harsh

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Solution:
Some verses do feel hard — especially out of context. Ask, “What does this reveal about God’s heart in its full context?” Wrestle honestly, and seek wise teaching. God’s Word is sharp, yes — but never cruel. He wounds to heal, not to harm (Hosea 6:1). Don’t walk away — dig deeper.

 

Not Knowing If They Should Share Their Faith

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Solution:
If you know Jesus, you have something to share — even if it’s just your story. Evangelism doesn’t require a sermon, just a conversation (1 Peter 3:15). Ask God to open a door and give you courage. You’re not the Savior — just the signpost. Point to Him with humility and love.

 

Avoiding Sin Out of Fear, Not Love

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Solution:
Fear may start the journey, but only love will sustain it. (1 John 4:18) says perfect love drives out fear. If you're only obeying out of dread, invite Jesus to restore the joy of your salvation. Love God, and sin will start to lose its grip — not because you’re scared, but because you’re full.

 

Believing God Is Always Mad at Them

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Solution:
God’s wrath was poured out on Jesus so that grace could be poured out on you (Romans 5:9). If you’re in Christ, you’re no longer under wrath — you’re under mercy. His discipline is love, not rage. His posture is open arms, not clenched fists. He’s not mad at you — He’s mad about you.

 

Unsure How to Explain Christianity to Others

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Solution:
You don’t need a perfect gospel presentation — you need a personal story. Tell people what Jesus has done for you.

Keep it simple:

Creation → Sin → Jesus → Response.

Focus on relationship, not religion. The gospel is about grace, not a spiritual sales pitch

(1 Peter 3:15). Be real. Be kind. Let the Spirit do the work.

 

Struggling to Find God’s Will for Their Career

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Solution:
God’s will isn’t always a specific job — it’s who you are in the job (Colossians 3:23). Ask: “Where can I love well, grow deeply, and bring light?” Use wisdom, peace, wise counsel, and your own God-given desires. His will is less about titles and more about character and calling.

 

Wanting a Personal Word but Hearing Nothing

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Solution:
Silence doesn’t mean absence. Sometimes, God grows your trust in the waiting. Don’t chase mystical experiences — stay grounded in His Word, where His voice is always available (Hebrews 1:1–2). Keep showing up. He’s not playing hide-and-seek. Sometimes, the clearest word is the one He already gave you.

 

Not Understanding Spiritual Disciplines

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Solution:
Spiritual disciplines aren’t rules — they’re rhythms that create space for God. Think of them as soul training — practices like prayer, fasting, solitude, Scripture, and generosity. They don’t earn love; they align your life with love. Start with one: do it consistently, with grace, not guilt (1 Timothy 4:7–8).

 

Tired of Surface-Level Sermons

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Solution:
You’re not being picky — you’re hungry. Shallow teaching leads to shallow roots. Find (or help build) a community that values depth, context, and real-life application. Supplement with sound podcasts, books, and mentors. The Church grows strong when it stops avoiding the deep end (Hebrews 5:12–14).

 

Feeling Stuck Between Grace and Growth

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Solution:
Grace and growth are not enemies — they’re partners. Grace gives you identity; growth shapes your maturity. You don’t grow to earn love — you grow because you’re already loved (Titus 2:11–12). Let grace be your foundation, and let growth be your joyful response.

 

Never Invited Into Real Spiritual Formation

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Solution:
If you were handed behavior management instead of transformation, you’re not alone. True formation is slow, relational, and deeply rooted in Christ (Galatians 4:19). Look for mentors or groups that prioritize becoming, not just behaving. Formation happens in community, with intention, and over time.

 

Too Busy to Sit With God

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Solution:
Your schedule reveals your worship. If you don’t have time for God, it’s time to make time. Start with five minutes of stillness — no agenda, just presence. Jesus withdrew often (Luke 5:16), not because He was lazy — but because He was full. Slow down. Your soul depends on it.

 

Trying to “Be Good” Instead of Being Changed

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Solution:
“Good” isn’t the goal — transformed is. Moral effort without Spirit-led change leads to frustration. Let Jesus form you, not just correct you (2 Corinthians 3:18). It’s not about trying harder — it’s about abiding deeper. Goodness is the fruit of surrender, not self-effort.

 

Burned Out on Bible Checklists

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Solution:
If your quiet time feels like a chore, trade checklists for connection. One verse that moves your heart is better than three chapters you forget. Ask God to meet you in the Word, not just through it. Read slower. Reflect longer. The Bible isn’t homework — it’s holy conversation (Psalm 119:103).

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