Archive

Secrets of Freemasonry: Decoding Its Symbols

A distinct symbol worn by every Freemason is the white apron. Far more than a piece of regalia, the apron signifies purity, innocence, and the dignity of honest labor. In ancient operative Masonry, stonemasons wore aprons for protection while working with stone.

What does gratitude mean?

Gratitude arises when we recognize that something valuable has come into our lives, often through the actions of others or through fortunate circumstances. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity.

Will the antichrist know who he is?

For instance, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 speaks of the coming of the lawless one "by the activity of Satan," with "all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception." Such language seems to imply self-conscious action, not blind participation.

What was Rahab saying spiritually in Joshua 2:12-14?

Spiritually, Rahab is stepping out in faith, trusting in the unseen and the unknown, and acting decisively based on her conviction that Israel’s God will deliver what He has promised. Her faith is proactive, not passive; she acts before seeing the evidence of deliverance.

Why didn't Nicodemus understand what Jesus meant by being born of water and spirit?

Jesus points out, “You are Israel’s teacher, and do you not understand these things?” (John 3:10). This rhetorical question suggests that Nicodemus, for all his learning, lacked spiritual perception.

Does manna exist today?

So, does manna exist today? The answer depends on how one defines “manna.” If we are speaking of the miraculous, heavenly bread described in the Bible—food that appears daily, in abundance, and disappears when not gathered—it does not exist in that supernatural form today.

Who does Moses represent in animal farm?

In “Animal Farm,” Moses the raven represents the Russian Orthodox Church and, by extension, the enduring power of organized religion as both a source of comfort and a tool of control.

20 Bible Verses About Helping Others

These verses remind us that compassion and generosity are at the heart of true faith. As you embrace opportunities to serve, remember that every kind deed—no matter how small—has eternal significance.

15 Bible Verses About Responsibility to Children

These verses remind us that parenting involves love, discipline, teaching, and encouragement. Children thrive when adults embrace their God-given role as shepherds of young lives.

Bible Verse Of the Day for Sunday, May 17th, 2026

It means that the messages contained within the Bible are not subject to the limitations, biases, or fallibility of human thought. Instead, they carry the authority of a source wholly other than ourselves—God Himself.

Breaking Chains of Hatred: A Biblical Response to Antisemitism

Hatred is consistently condemned in Scripture. 1 John 4:20 warns: “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar.” Antisemitism is a form of hatred that denies God’s command to love.

Gerrymandering and the Bible: Justice, Representation, and Faith

Isaiah 10:1–2 warns against those who “make unjust laws” and “deprive the poor of their rights.” Gerrymandering fits this description, as it often deprives communities of fair representation.

What Does the Bible Say About Border Patrol?

The danger lies in extremes: closing borders entirely denies hospitality, while ignoring security risks undermines justice. The biblical path is one of balance — guarding communities responsibly while extending compassion generously.

Faith Amid Fear: Understanding Hantavirus Through the Bible

Hebrews 11 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” In the context of Hantavirus, faith does not mean ignoring medical advice but trusting that God’s sovereignty extends even over unseen dangers.

Strait of Hormuz and Biblical Prophecy

In Ezekiel 38, Persia is listed among the nations that will align against Israel in the end times. This has led many interpreters to connect modern Iran’s geopolitical role with biblical prophecy, especially given its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz and its influence over regional security.

Stock Market and Biblical Principles

Impact investing—a growing trend—focuses on generating positive social and environmental outcomes alongside financial returns. This approach resonates with biblical calls to seek the welfare of the community (Jeremiah 29:7) and to care for creation (Genesis 2:15).

Will Jesus make a new world?

Revelation describes a city, the New Jerusalem, coming down to earth. This suggests continuity between the present world and the world to come, but without the brokenness that characterizes current existence.

The "Quiet Revival" — What Does the Bible Say About Spiritual Awakening?

Paul reminds believers that the Holy Spirit works within us, gradually producing the fruit of the Spirit rather than instant external change. The "Quiet Revival" resonates with these biblical truths, suggesting that the most important awakenings may be invisible to the world but fully known to God.

What Romans 2:4 Really Means About God’s Kindness

God’s kindness should not be mistaken for permissiveness. The fact that God does not immediately judge or punish is not evidence that He endorses sin; rather, it is a demonstration of His mercy and His hope that we will recognize our need for Him.

Cornelius in the Bible: The First Gentile Convert

Until Cornelius’s conversion, the Jesus movement was largely confined to Jewish communities, with Gentiles seen as outsiders. The events in Acts 10 and 11—later affirmed at the Jerusalem Council—establish that faith in Christ transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

Matthew 22:37 and the Call to Total Devotion

Jesus pointed to a deeper reality: God desires our whole selves, not just our outward compliance. This message remains relevant today. It is possible to attend church, observe religious rituals, and even serve in ministry without truly loving God with our whole being.

The Hope Within: 1 Peter 3:15 Explained

By revering Christ as Lord, being prepared to share the reason for hope, and doing so with gentleness and respect, believers can shine light in a world that often feels dark. The hope within is meant to be shared, not hidden.

Faithfulness in Small Things: A Study of Luke 16:10

Small acts of dishonesty or laziness can gradually erode our character and credibility. The person who cuts corners in minor matters may eventually face temptation in major ones. Faithfulness is cultivated one decision at a time.

What does love never fails mean in 1 Corinthians 13:8?

Love is the very essence of God Himself (1 John 4:8) and is therefore as unending as God’s own nature. While spiritual gifts are temporary, love is permanent. This is why Paul concludes the chapter by saying, "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love"

What does the shedding of innocent blood mean in the Bible?

In the eyes of Scripture, any act that harms the defenseless—whether through direct violence, legal injustice, or societal neglect—can be seen as the shedding of innocent blood.

What is Shalom in modern Israel?

Israel is a diverse society, home to Jews from around the world, as well as significant Arab, Druze, and other minority populations. Tensions exist along religious, ethnic, and economic lines, and the pursuit of shalom is recognized as an ongoing effort to build a more just and inclusive society.

What does Isaiah 60 say about mighty forces?

In Isaiah 60:5 and 60:11, “mighty forces” refers to the wealth, power, resources, and influence of other nations. It signifies not just material riches, but also the talents, skills, and homage that the world’s peoples will bring to Zion in acknowledgment of God’s glory.

What is a good Bible verse for the month of May?

Psalm 118:24 reminds believers to embrace each day as a gift from God. Choosing this verse for May can cultivate gratitude and a spirit of rejoicing, even amidst challenges.

What is the meaning of departed souls?

In many traditions, the soul is seen as the true self—the vital force or consciousness that animates the body. Upon death, this soul is believed to leave the physical realm and enter another form of existence, whether that be an afterlife, reincarnation, or a state of rest.

What does Proverbs 8:19 say?

Wisdom claims that the outcomes she brings are more valuable than even the finest gold and the most precious silver. These metals, used as symbols of earthly wealth and status, pale in comparison to the benefits that wisdom offers.

What is the meaning of 2 Timothy 2:22?

While sexual temptation is certainly included, scholars agree that Paul is referring to all the impulsive desires and behaviors often associated with immaturity—such as pride, argumentative spirit, impatience, ambition for recognition, rashness, envy, and a tendency toward controversy.

What does 2 Timothy 3 say about the last days?

Instead of loving God and others, people will love themselves, money, and pleasure. This distortion of love leads to arrogance, ingratitude, and cruelty. Paul’s description resonates with modern culture, where self-centeredness and materialism often overshadow humility and compassion.

What is the difference between called and chosen?

While many are called, not all respond positively. The chosen are those who answer the call in faith and obedience. This does not necessarily mean that God is excluding others, but that the response to the call is crucial in moving from called to chosen.

Who are the primary matriarchs in Genesis?

The matriarchs of Genesis are far more than background characters in the patriarchal stories. Each woman—Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah—brings a unique perspective, set of challenges, and spiritual journey to the unfolding history of Israel.

Why did Jesus not condemn the Pharisees in the Bible?

In summary, Jesus did not condemn the Pharisees outright because his mission was rooted in redemption, not destruction. He saw the potential for change. His interactions with the Pharisees serve as a warning against religious hypocrisy and as an example of compassionate correction.

What is the first and last book of the Bible?

Understanding that Genesis and Revelation are the first and last books of the Bible is more than a matter of trivia. The story begins with God’s creative purposes and humanity’s fall, and it ends with God’s ultimate victory and the restoration of all things.

Is Logos the best Bible software?

So, is Logos the best Bible software? The answer depends on perspective. For those who require depth, scholarly resources, and advanced tools, Logos is unmatched. However, for casual readers or those seeking affordability, other options may be better suited.

What is the significance of the verse Ezekiel 25:17 in the Bible?

Here, God promises to punish the Philistines for their actions against Israel, making it clear that their deeds will not go unanswered. This serves as a reassurance to the Israelites that, despite their current suffering and displacement, God remains sovereign and just.

Why doesn’t the Protestant Bible mention archangel Raphael?

When Protestant reformers in the 16th century revisited the contents of the Bible, they chose to follow the Jewish Masoretic Text, which does not include Tobit or other Deuterocanonical books. Consequently, any figures unique to these texts, such as Raphael, are also omitted.

What is the difference between a Spiritual gift and a talent?

Talents grow with investment and effort, and their expression can change or evolve over a lifetime. Spiritual gifts, on the other hand, are considered endowments rather than skills to be mastered.

Should we read the Apocrypha?

The Jewish community did not accept these books as Scripture, and Jesus and the apostles do not quote directly from them as authoritative. For traditions holding to “Sola Scriptura” (Scripture alone), the Apocrypha’s secondary status means it should not be used to establish doctrine or practices.

What does the phrase "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood" mean in Ephesians 6:12?

Humans, with their weaknesses and limitations, are not the ultimate source of evil. While conflicts with individuals may arise, Paul insists that these are surface-level manifestations of deeper spiritual realities.

Can you explain what John 3:16 means?

John 3:16 is often called the "Golden Verse" because it succinctly summarizes the core message of the Christian faith: God's love for the world, the giving of Jesus as a sacrifice, and the promise of eternal life through belief in Him.

What is the true meaning of Philippians 4:13?

Paul's statement is not a general claim about unlimited potential, but rather a testimony to his ability to face any circumstance—abundance or poverty, comfort or hardship—because of the strength he receives from Christ.

Does 1 Timothy 2:4 indicate everyone will be saved?

Most Christian traditions interpret passages like 1 Timothy 2:4 as expressing God's loving heart, not a guarantee of universal salvation. They affirm that salvation is offered to all, but it must be received through faith in Jesus Christ.

In the Bible, what did Lazarus do to deserve being resurrected?

Lazarus did not do anything to deserve being resurrected in the sense of earning it through his actions. His resurrection was an act of divine love, intended to reveal Jesus’s authority and inspire faith in the community.

What is the significance of the Bible stating that Abraham's descendants will be as numerous as the grains of sand on the seashore?

Sand grains are so tiny and numerous that counting them is an impossible task. By choosing this imagery, the Bible emphasizes that Abraham’s descendants would be beyond human ability to tally, highlighting the sheer scope of God's blessing.

What is the difference between sin and iniquity in the Bible?

Sin can be committed in ignorance or weakness. Iniquity implies a greater degree of awareness and deliberateness. It is ongoing, hardened disobedience—a refusal to repent or turn away from wrongful behavior.

From Death to Life: What It Means to Be Spiritually Dead

To be spiritually dead is to be cut off from God, enslaved to sin, and unable to save oneself. It is the universal human condition apart from Christ. But the good news of the gospel is that God delights in bringing the dead to life.

St. Peter’s Basilica: The Beating Heart of Vatican City

It is one of the largest churches in the world, capable of holding more than 60,000 people. Yet, for all its size, the space feels intimate and sacred, filled with golden light, intricate mosaics, and an atmosphere of reverence.

Ever-Present: Embracing Jesus’ Promise, “I Am With You Always”

“Always” signifies an unbroken continuity, a presence that is not limited by time or circumstance. “To the end of the age” stretches this promise into the future, assuring believers that there is no expiration date for Christ’s companionship.

Mary of Nazareth: The Life and Influence of Jesus’ Mother

Perhaps the most poignant moment in Mary’s life was witnessing the crucifixion of her son. The Gospel of John records that Mary stood by the cross, enduring unimaginable grief as she watched Jesus suffer.

Jerusalem’s Temple Mount: Heart of Faith, History, and Conflict

For Jews, it remains the place where the Divine Presence once dwelled and where prayers are still directed. For Christians, it is a reminder of Jesus’ ministry and the hope of fulfillment. For Muslims, it is a sacred space tied to the Prophet and to centuries of devotion.

The Saint Thomas Christians of India: A Legacy of Faith and Tradition

They trace their spiritual heritage to the apostle Thomas, who, according to tradition, arrived on the Malabar Coast around 52 CE, preached the Gospel, performed miracles, and established some of the earliest Christian churches in India.

What are the 14 Stations of the Cross in order?

Each station presents a moment of suffering, sacrifice, and love, inviting us to meditate on the depth of Christ’s commitment to humanity. The stations offer a framework for prayer, self-examination, and gratitude.

What angers God the most?

God’s anger is ignited when those with power use it to exploit, oppress, or marginalize the vulnerable. This righteous anger is not just a passing emotion; it is a deep, moral response to the corruption and cruelty that violate His creation and His image in humanity.

What does the Bible say about dripping water?

Just as the steady drip of water can erode stone or drive a person to distraction, so can constant bickering, nagging, or conflict wear down relationships. The message is clear: ongoing issues, left unaddressed, can accumulate and cause significant emotional or relational damage.

Are there different types of discernment in the Bible?

The kinds of discernment in the Bible include spiritual discernment, moral discernment, doctrinal discernment, relational discernment, situational discernment, and discernment of spirits.

What is different about the Tyndale Bible?

The Tyndale Bible’s difference is measured not just in words and phrases, but in the world it helped create—a world where the scriptures could be read, pondered, and cherished by all.

Does the Fountain of Youth exist in the Bible?

If we are searching for a magical spring that reverses aging or grants physical immortality, the Bible does not provide such a formula. Instead, it offers something far more profound: the promise of spiritual renewal, resurrection, and eternal life through faith in God.

What is the largest Oneness Pentecostal organization in the world?

The United Pentecostal Church International is undeniably the largest Oneness Pentecostal organization in the world. With millions of members, thousands of congregations, and a strong missionary presence, it has shaped the global landscape of Pentecostal Christianity.

Is Fox's The Faithful: Women of the Bible Biblically Accurate?

Fox’s The Faithful: Women of the Bible is not strictly biblically accurate. While it draws inspiration from Genesis and highlights important female figures, it often reshapes scripture into a modern drama, adding perspectives and liberties that stray from the original text.

Who was the most faithful in the Bible?

Abraham, Moses, Ruth, Job, Daniel, and many others each demonstrated remarkable faithfulness in their unique contexts. Yet, the life and work of Jesus Christ surpass all, providing the perfect model of faithfulness that believers are called to emulate.

Which countries will fight in Armageddon?

While the Bible does not name specific modern countries, it uses ancient place names and symbolic language—such as "Gog and Magog," "the kings of the east," and references to the north or the coastlands—which have been interpreted in various ways over centuries.

How is the date of Easter determined?

The rule established at the First Council of Nicaea was: Easter is to be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the vernal (spring) equinox.

How do you respond to Christ has risen?

When someone says, “Christ has risen,” the traditional response is, “He is risen indeed!” This exchange serves as a joyful affirmation of the resurrection. Many churches, especially during Easter services, incorporate this greeting into their liturgy.

What are the 7 foods on the Seder plate for Passover?

While the seven foods described here are widely recognized, there is some variation among Jewish communities. Sephardic, Ashkenazi, and Mizrahi Jews might use different ingredients for charoset or substitute different vegetables for karpas and chazeret.

Who are the four demonic mothers?

The Four Demonic Mothers—Lilith, Agrat bat Mahlat, Naamah, and Eisheth Zenunim—are more than just figures of horror. They are complex symbols, woven from the fabric of ancient fears and desires, and their stories continue to resonate even today.

What is the real meaning of Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever?

The same Jesus who walked the dusty roads of Galilee, healed the sick, forgave sinners, and laid down His life on the cross is the Jesus who reigns today and will continue to reign for all eternity.

What sins block deliverance?

Pride is a subtle but deadly sin that can block deliverance even when other issues are addressed. The Bible says, “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

What does Biblical Cosmology mean?

Biblical cosmology is not a scientific field but a theological and literary perspective found in the Bible. It explores how biblical writers understood the world, including the heavens, earth, and underworld, and how these beliefs influenced their faith and worldview.

What does it mean that Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith?

To say that Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith is to affirm that He is both the beginning and the end of our spiritual journey. He initiates faith in our hearts, sustains us through life’s challenges, and will bring us to ultimate maturity in Him.

Enemies of God? The Bold Message of James 4:4

Here, “world” does not refer to the physical earth or humanity at large, but to the system of values, desires, and priorities that are opposed to God’s ways. To be a friend of the world is to adopt its mindset—pursuing status, possessions, pleasure, or power as ultimate goals.

Death in Scripture: Exploring the Bible’s Teachings on the End of Life

Job, in the midst of suffering, declares, “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:25-26).

The Gospel of Nicodemus: Exploring the Lost Stories of Christ’s Passion and Descent

Perhaps the most fascinating part of the Gospel of Nicodemus is its account of the Harrowing of Hell—a term used to describe Christ’s descent into the realm of the dead between his crucifixion and resurrection.

Exploring the Meaning and Mystique of the Tree of Life in the Bible

The tree represents the gift of life that comes from God alone. Its placement in Eden, its association with wisdom, and its reappearance in the vision of the New Jerusalem all point to God’s desire for humanity to share in divine life.

Becoming Christlike: The Journey Toward Imitating Jesus

Christlikeness is marked by the cultivation of specific virtues that Jesus modeled perfectly. Among these are humility, forgiveness, patience, and sacrificial love. Humility is the foundation, as Jesus Himself “made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant” (Philippians 2:7).

The Harrowing of Hell: Exploring Christ’s Descent and Its Spiritual Significance

The Harrowing of Hell refers to the belief that after his crucifixion and before his resurrection, Christ descended into the realm of the dead (often called Hades or Sheol) to liberate righteous souls who had died before his incarnation.

The Messianic Secret: Understanding Jesus’ Hidden Identity in Mark’s Gospel

The Messianic Secret refers to the pattern in Mark’s Gospel where Jesus deliberately conceals His identity as the Messiah. He repeatedly instructs those He heals, His disciples, and even demons not to reveal who He truly is.

What was Abraham's weakness in the Bible?

Abraham’s weakness was not a lack of faith in God’s promises overall but a struggle in the moment to apply that faith to situations of acute personal risk.

Can I name my daughter Hosanna?

Parents are drawn to Hosanna for its deep spiritual meaning, gentle and melodic sound, and its association with celebration and joy. The name shares similarities with popular names like Anna and Hannah, making it both familiar and unique.

Which color to wear on Palm Sunday?

With the liturgical symbolism in mind, many worshippers choose to wear red clothing to church on Palm Sunday. This can be a red dress, shirt, scarf, tie, or even subtle red accessories. If you don’t own anything red, don’t worry—your presence and reverence are what matter most.

Sophia: The Feminine Face of God in Christian Theology

In Christianity, “Sophia” is the Greek word for “wisdom.” She is personified as a feminine figure in both the Old and New Testaments, representing God’s wisdom as an active, guiding, and creative presence.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Unveiling the Holiest Site in Christianity

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is an ancient Christian church in Jerusalem’s Old City, revered as the traditional site of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. It is considered the holiest site in Christianity and a major pilgrimage destination.

Inside Dallas Theological Seminary: History, Distinctives, and Impact

DTS is best known for its commitment to dispensational theology, which focuses on the literal fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel and the church, and for its unwavering belief in biblical inerrancy—the conviction that the Scriptures are without error in their original manuscripts.

What Is Reformed Theology? Key Doctrines and Historical Roots

At the heart of Reformed theology is the principle of Sola Scriptura, which means “Scripture alone.” This doctrine teaches that the Bible is the ultimate and final authority in all matters of faith and practice.

The Song of Deborah: Israel’s Anthem of Deliverance

The Song of Deborah is far more than an ancient victory hymn; it is Israel’s anthem of deliverance, a testimony to God’s power, and a celebration of human faithfulness.

Reason and Revelation: Exploring the Jefferson Bible

The Jefferson Bible, formally titled The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth, is a unique compilation of New Testament passages created by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson edited the Gospels to exclude miracles, prophecies, and supernatural events, focusing solely on the moral teachings of Jesus.

The Essence of Deism: Understanding a Faith Rooted in Reason and Nature

Deism is a philosophical belief that affirms the existence of a Creator who can be known through reason and the observation of the natural world, rather than through revealed scriptures or institutional authority.

Synagogues in the Bible: Community, Worship, and Tradition in Ancient Israel

Synagogues are believed to have originated during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE. Separated from the Temple, Jewish communities needed local spaces to pray, read scripture, and maintain their identity. These gatherings laid the groundwork for the synagogue tradition.

The Office of Presbyter: Leadership and Legacy in the Early Church

A presbyter, meaning “elder,” was a leader in the early Christian community responsible for teaching, pastoral care, and church governance. Presbyters played a vital role in guiding congregations as Christianity developed from small house groups into a more structured institution.

The Problem of Evil: A Biblical Perspective

The choice to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, in defiance of God’s command, brought sin and its consequences—pain, suffering, death, and alienation from God—into human experience.

Wine in the Bible: From Ancient Rituals to Sacred Symbolism

Throughout the Old Testament, wine is associated with joy, prosperity, and divine favor. The Promised Land is described as a place “flowing with milk and honey,” but also as a land with abundant vineyards and wine. The prophetic books use wine as a metaphor for restoration and hope.

Reimagining Faith: An Introduction to Feminist Theology

Feminist theologians ask questions such as: How have interpretations of sacred texts been influenced by male perspectives? What images and metaphors for God have been privileged or suppressed? How can religious communities become sites of liberation rather than oppression?

Guarding Liberty: Understanding the First Amendment and Its Impact on American Society

The First Amendment is the opening section of the Bill of Rights in the U.S. Constitution. It guarantees essential freedoms: religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. These rights are fundamental to American democracy and protect individuals from government interference.

The Nazirite Vow: Purpose, Practices, and Meaning in the Bible

The Nazirite vow is a voluntary act of dedication to God described in Numbers 6. Open to both men and women, it involves a period of separation marked by abstaining from wine and grape products, avoiding contact with the dead, and not cutting one’s hair.

Navigating Church and State: Understanding the Lemon Test and Its Impact on U.S. Law

The Lemon test is a three-pronged legal standard established by the U.S. Supreme Court in the 1971 case Lemon v. Kurtzman. It is used to determine whether a government action violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits government establishment of religion.

The Role and Significance of the High Priest: Exploring Ancient Traditions and Modern Reflections

In the Hebrew tradition, the High Priest emerged prominently during the time of Moses and Aaron. The High Priest was tasked with overseeing the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, performing sacrifices, and entering the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur for atonement on behalf of the people.

Joseph’s Divine Encounter: The Angelic Declaration That Changed History

According to the Gospel of Matthew, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. The angel’s message assured Joseph that Mary’s child was conceived by the Holy Spirit, encouraged him to take Mary as his wife, and instructed him to name the child Jesus.

The Book of Psalms: Poetry, Prayer, and Spiritual Wisdom Through the Ages

At the core of the Book of Psalms is an honest search for God in the midst of life’s joys and sorrows. The psalmists express gratitude and praise for divine blessings, plead for help in times of distress, confess sins, and seek forgiveness.