Coach Bryant Documentary- Ain't Nothing But a Winner

Here is my annual post to remember Coach Bryant.

In January 2022, I received permission from Tom Brakefield to have access and use his extensive private collection of Bear Bryant videos inside the Bryant Museum and Gorgas Library in order to produce original coaching training content and curriculum specifically for BWD athletics.

It took me over a year to pour through almost 20 hours of old video footage- some of which had never been digitized before I made the request.


One of the videos I uncovered was the documentary, "Ain't Nothing But a Winner" and it brought such great memories. The clip I am sharing today was put together by a sports psychologist in the early 80's that used the occasion of the historic 315th win vs Auburn as a microcosm of Bryant's philosophy and program.

I edited it down so you can watch it in one sitting- and will from time to time share clips for you to enjoy.


Coach Bryant's famous mumble is sometimes hard to understand, but there is some great wisdom in team building here.

Enjoy!

Ain't Nothing But a Winner

Of Thorns, Splinters, and Pebbles

Been reading some interesting articles on the Psychology of 'thinking', especially how to discover, discern, and re-orient faulty thinking... the smarter a person is actually makes this more difficult. Recently, I ran across an interesting discussion about how 'slight suffering' (is there such a thing LOL) may help us become more humble and interrupt cycles of bad thought patterns.

Life has a way of shaping us through persistent, often small, struggles. The challenges that don't seem grand or significant at first, yet they find a way to linger, quietly chiseling at our hearts and minds. In Muhammad Ali's famous words, "It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe." The weight of life's difficulties often isn't found in the overwhelming trials we can see coming, but in the subtle, sharp irritations—like a splinter or a small stone—that we carry with us, sometimes without even realizing it. These seemingly insignificant burdens, while not enough to crush us, have the power to subtly influence the direction of our lives, shaping us in ways we might never fully understand.

The ancient Greek myth of Lethe and Nepenthe offers a poignant lens through which to view our internal struggles. In mythology, Lethe is the river of forgetfulness, whose waters cause those who drink from it to forget their past, while Nepenthe, a magical substance, offers a kind of relief from sorrow and pain. If we could simply drink from Lethe, many of us might wish to erase the painful memories that cling to us—the mistakes, the regrets, the moments of weakness that feel like splinters in our hearts. And yet, Nepenthe, the balm that soothes our sorrow, often eludes us, leaving us with memories that persist despite our desire to forget. These elements of myth remind us that while the temptation to forget or erase painful memories is strong, there is often wisdom and grace in facing them head-on.

The figure of the raven, with its shadow of unrelenting darkness, offers a similar metaphor. In Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven, the speaker is haunted by the bird's repeated utterance of "Nevermore." This relentless refrain becomes a symbol of the past’s power to intrude, no matter how much one longs for peace or closure. The raven is like a thorn embedded in the mind, a symbol of the weight of memories, loss, and regret that refuse to be shaken off. Even as the speaker seeks respite, the raven forces him to confront the inescapable truth that some wounds may never fully heal, and some memories may never be erased.

For the Apostle Paul, in the New Testament, the concept of a "thorn in the flesh" represents yet another way of understanding persistent struggles. Paul speaks of a "thorn" that he begged God to remove, but instead of erasing it, God replied, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Like the pebbles, thorns, and splinters in our own lives, Paul's thorn becomes not only a source of pain but also a means by which God's strength is made more apparent. Paul's experience teaches us that our struggles—whether small irritations or deep wounds—are not without purpose. They have the potential to refine and shape us in ways we may never understand, drawing us closer to God and to a deeper understanding of grace.

Perhaps it is the very persistence of these small struggles—like thorns, splinters, or pebbles—that teaches us the most. They remind us that we are not alone in our pain, and that, despite the weariness they bring, there is grace to be found in the journey. It is through these challenges, not the grand summits, that we find the depths of our strength, our humanity, and our need for grace.

I plan to spend the month of February, digging into some of these 'faulty thinking patterns' and I hope you will join me on this journey. It isn't just for others sake... it is also for ourselves. In some ways, we all battle different forms of mental illness.... and we need the Lord, His Word, and others to keep us afloat.

Here is what I hope to explore:

Metacognitive Tools: Navigating Faulty Thinking Patterns

In the journey of self-awareness and cognitive growth, having tools that challenge and guide us through the maze of our own thought processes is invaluable. These tools help illuminate biases, overconfidence, and areas of self-doubt, encouraging us to better understand where we stand in relation to faulty thinking syndromes. Below are ten potential names for such a tool, each designed to inspire reflection and foster clarity:

The Mirror of Mind

Suggests introspection and self-reflection, emphasizing looking into one's own cognitive patterns.


Cognitive Compass

A tool designed to help users navigate their mental landscape and locate where they might be off course.


The Bias Barometer

Encourages users to measure and detect their own cognitive biases or faulty thinking tendencies.


Perception Pivot

A tool that prompts users to reevaluate their assumptions and shift perspectives.


The Thinking Map

Guides users to explore the terrain of their thought processes and identify where errors or distortions might lie.


Metacog Matrix

Highlights the interplay of metacognitive awareness and decision-making, challenging users to place themselves in the matrix of cognitive fallacies.


The Clarity Lens

A reflective tool aimed at clearing away distortions in perception and thought.


The Confidence Scale

Encourages users to evaluate whether their confidence aligns with their actual knowledge or competence.


Mind Checkpoint

A stopping point for users to pause and assess the accuracy and rationality of their thinking.


The Echo Filter

Designed to help users sift through their thoughts and identify when they are trapped in echo chambers or self-reinforcing loops.

Crisis Mode

This is the fight or flight adrenaline rush and how we 'think through' these situations without a paralysis of analysis.

And yes (sorry) I did come up with a song (and I am actually developing a game as well TBD)

Song: Of Thorns, Splinters, and Pebbles

The Modest Masters Convention - A Parable

In the quiet town of Measuredville, tucked between the Cautious Hills and the Valley of Second Guesses, there existed a peculiar organization known as the Society of Modest Masters. This esteemed group was composed of individuals renowned for their unparalleled humility. Their motto was proudly etched on their banner: "What little we know, we know we hardly know at all."

Every year, the Society held an annual convention where members gathered to share their latest findings, carefully prefaced with disclaimers such as, "This is merely a hypothesis," or, "I may be entirely wrong." However, attendance had dwindled over the years. The members' reluctance to assert themselves even in their own areas of expertise had left the program with gaping holes.

At a heated planning meeting, the Society’s president, Dr. Prudence Hindsight, proposed an unconventional idea:

"Our members are so painfully humble that we struggle to fill our panels. Perhaps we should invite someone with... the opposite problem for contrast."

After much debate (and an uncomfortable amount of second-guessing), they decided to extend an invitation to Professor Boldwin Bluff, the self-proclaimed founder of the Institute of Supreme Confidence. Bluff was a man whose reputation was as colorful as his wardrobe and whose name seemed to precede him—usually by about ten paces.

DAYS OF MEETINGS THAT COULD HAVE BEEN EMAILS (ALSO CALLED CONVENTIONS)

When the day of the convention arrived, Professor Bluff swept into the hall with a flourish, dressed in an oversized suit festooned with medals of dubious origin. He strode to the podium, beaming with the self-assurance of a man who had never once doubted himself.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Modest Masters, I stand before you today as the epitome of excellence—proof that you needn’t burden yourself with self-doubt or, for that matter, facts."

His keynote address, titled "Mastering Mastery Without the Hassle of Learning," began with a bold claim:

"My friends, I have achieved greatness in every field I’ve graced. I invented Wi-Fi as a child. I cured a disease—the name of which escapes me—and I once outran a cheetah, barefoot."

The audience—accustomed to meticulously analyzing even their own grocery lists—sat in stunned silence. Professor Bluff’s presentation was a whirlwind of anecdotes, none of which had a shred of evidence but all delivered with unwavering certainty. He concluded with a flourish:

"Remember, doubt is for the weak. Confidence conquers all. Now, who has questions for a man of my caliber?"

THE GROUP MODERATOR ASKS FOR QUESTIONS AND THE GROANS WERE HEARD FROM THE BACK

The members of the Society, true to form, phrased their questions with such caution that Bluff mistook their politeness for admiration:

Dr. Delia Underfoot hesitantly asked: "Could you elaborate on your assertion that gravity might, in fact, be optional?"

Bluff replied: "Absolutely. I’m living proof of that—look how grounded I am!"

Another member ventured: "What’s your view on the limits of human knowledge?"

Bluff confidently answered: "There are none, provided you don’t waste time learning!"

As the Q&A continued, Bluff basked in what he believed to be adoration. Meanwhile, the audience exchanged bewildered glances.

There was a small group who had been texting each other furiously for the entire convention.

At the end, one text popped up-

"Do you think he’s joking?"

The reply came back:

"I think we’re the joke."

After the keynote, the Society held an emergency meeting to process what they had just experienced. Dr. Hindsight opened the discussion:

"Well, that was... educational?"

Dr. Underfoot replied:

"Educational? It was like watching a goose teach flight to eagles!"

Some members argued that Bluff’s confidence had, ironically, highlighted their own crippling self-doubt.

 A younger member chimed in:

"Maybe we’re too cautious. If he can stride in here and claim mastery over gravity, surely we can afford to assert ourselves just a little."

Others were less charitable. One elder member lamented:

"I fear his audacity has corrupted the youth. Did you see them scribbling notes during his talk? They’ll be quoting him next!"

As they debated, a letter arrived from Bluff himself, congratulating the Society for their "wisdom" in inviting him. Enclosed was an invoice for "intellectual enrichment services" totaling $25,000. The members—true to their nature—debated for hours whether the invoice was serious or satirical.

The Moral

"The truly wise doubt their wisdom, while the truly foolish charge a premium for theirs."

as well as:

'The expert is the fool who thinks he knows everything"

"The first million years of hell will be meetings"

NOTICE: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

No Time for Rumination

Here are some initial thoughts I have had reading a very interesting book- The Frontiersman by Allan W. Eckert.

 Life on the frontier was a relentless test of endurance. The early pioneers didn’t just live; they fought to survive in ways that feel almost unimaginable today. The Frontiersman brings this vividly to life, offering glimpses into the staggering toughness required to carve out an existence in untamed wilderness. One passage that stuck with me described the sheer challenge of navigating rivers in large dugout canoes. These vessels, hewn from massive tree trunks, were essential for travel and trade, but controlling them on fast, unpredictable rivers like the Ohio or the Scioto was a battle of grit and ingenuity.

Eckert describes how these pioneers had to contend with strong currents, hidden rocks, and fallen trees that could capsize a canoe in an instant. The men wielded long poles and paddles to guide the unwieldy vessels, straining against the power of the river while soaked to the bone and chilled by the wind. A single misstep or moment of inattention could mean disaster—losing not only the goods they carried but possibly their lives. And yet, they persevered. Day after day, they endured these dangers because they had no choice. Survival demanded it.

There are gruesome images in the book as well as the men fought Indians and each day provided dangers of life and death.

What strikes me most is how these pioneers seemed to endure these physical and mental challenges without being consumed by despair. They buried loved ones, braved the elements, and pressed on, even when the odds seemed impossible. It wasn’t because they didn’t feel fear or sadness—of course, they did.

 But their lives didn’t allow for the kind of mental paralysis that comes from overthinking. When something was taken away, when disaster struck, they simply had to keep moving forward because there was no alternative.

In contrast, our modern lives often provide more comfort and safety but leave us more vulnerable to what psychologists call rumination. Rumination, at its core, is the habit of turning the same thought over and over in your mind—regret, fear, failure—without reaching a resolution. It’s the mental equivalent of being stuck in an eddy, unable to paddle free. Unlike the pioneers who had no time to dwell on past mistakes while navigating dangerous waters, we often find ourselves with too much time and too little action.

Eckert’s descriptions of frontier life stand in stark contrast to this modern struggle. Those men and women had no illusions about life being easy. Hardship wasn’t seen as a failure or an obstacle—it was simply life. That perspective alone can be transformative. Today, many of us live with the unspoken expectation that life should be comfortable and smooth, and when it’s not, we spiral into overthinking. But the pioneers accepted struggle as a given and focused instead on what they could control: building, repairing, moving forward.

The lesson here is not to romanticize suffering but to recognize that action and purpose are powerful antidotes to the loops of rumination. When we’re stuck in our heads, replaying mistakes or imagining worst-case scenarios, perhaps the best thing we can do is take a page from the pioneers' book. They didn’t pause to dwell on what was lost; they picked up their paddles and faced the river ahead.

The dugout canoes of Eckert’s The Frontiersman are more than just tools for navigating rivers—they’re metaphors for resilience. Each obstacle in the water required immediate action, not endless analysis. Each push of the pole or stroke of the paddle was a reminder that progress comes from doing, not dwelling.

The pioneers didn’t know the luxury of rumination, but they didn’t need it. Their lives were rooted in purpose, and that purpose gave them the strength to endure. Perhaps in reconnecting with action and meaning, we can rediscover some of that same resilience for the quieter but no less challenging battles of the modern mind.

Suspicions

In the modern landscape, we live in a land where the aura of truth has all but disappeared. Conspiracy theories, rumors, gossip, lies, and deceit have become the air we breathe, filling our minds with shadows and uncertainty. Every word, every claim, seems suspicious. At some point, it all blurs together, leaving us questioning whether truth is even findable. The weight of it feels unbearable, like living in a fog where reality and illusion are nearly indistinguishable.

This is not a new problem, though its intensity may feel unprecedented. Thousands of years ago, Pilate stood before Jesus and asked, “What is truth?” The question wasn’t rhetorical; it was heavy with the same sense of disillusionment that haunts us now. In a world of competing powers, conflicting ideologies, and endless manipulation, how do we know what’s real? And yet, in the face of that question, Jesus claimed, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” There is something striking about that statement—truth not as an abstract concept or a fleeting opinion but as something alive, embodied, and unchanging.

Suspicion, born out of self-preservation, is both a shield and a trap. It protects us from deceit but, when wielded too widely, turns into cynicism. If everything feels like a lie, the natural reaction is to trust nothing—or worse, to believe anything that feeds our bias or fears. It’s a state of truth decay, where the very foundation of reality crumbles. The more we sink into this mindset, the more we lose sight of the fact that truth, by its nature, cannot be destroyed. It might be hidden, buried under noise and distortion, but it is not gone.

To find truth in a world of shadows requires more than intellect; it demands courage and humility. It means testing everything, even our long-held assumptions, against something deeper. There’s wisdom in the words, “Test all things; hold fast to what is good.” But that testing requires patience, discernment, and a willingness to be wrong. It’s not easy to untangle the threads of lies that wind around us, but the work is necessary. Discernment becomes both a practice and a posture—a willingness to question not just the external world but the internal filters through which we view it.

The fog begins to clear when we anchor ourselves in something eternal. For Christians, this means grounding ourselves in the Word of God, which offers a perspective beyond the shifting sands of culture and opinion. Here, truth isn’t a tool for control or power; it’s a light, guiding us through the chaos. That doesn’t mean the noise disappears, but it does mean there’s a compass to navigate it.

There is hope in the pursuit of truth. The very act of seeking it assumes that it exists and that it’s worth finding. In that hope, there’s a kind of resistance to the despair that comes with living in a world of deceit. It’s an act of defiance to believe that truth can be known, that it matters, and that it has the power to set us free.

The search is not easy. It demands vigilance and faith. But even in a world clouded by lies, the light of truth cannot be extinguished. It waits, unwavering, for those willing to seek it.

A Curious Thing: The Disappearance of Knee Pain After COVID-19

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, I struggled with diagnosed arthritis in both knees. The pain was persistent and often debilitating, limiting my mobility and significantly impacting my daily life. At one point, I sought relief through hyaluronic acid injections, which provided some help, but the discomfort never fully subsided.

When I contracted COVID-19, things worsened. For about two weeks, I could barely walk due to the overwhelming pain and fatigue. I also received the COVID-19 vaccine and, during my illness, underwent monoclonal antibody treatment via an IV infusion. After I recovered, something unexpected happened: my knee pain was gone. Not just improved—completely gone. Astonishingly, it has now been over two years, and I have remained pain-free.

This extraordinary shift left me wondering: What could have caused such a dramatic improvement? Here are several possibilities that might explain this mystery:

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1. Immune System Reset

One possible explanation lies in the way COVID-19 and its treatments influenced my immune system. Arthritis often involves chronic inflammation, sometimes linked to an overactive immune response.

• COVID's Impact on Inflammation: The significant immune activity during COVID-19, or even the "cytokine storm" it triggered, may have altered my body’s overall inflammatory processes. As my immune system recalibrated post-infection, it might have unexpectedly reduced inflammation in my knees.
• Monoclonal Antibody Therapy: These treatments are designed to modulate the immune response and may have had an indirect effect on the chronic inflammation causing my arthritis.
• Vaccine Response: The vaccine could have triggered a similar immune reset, creating a long-term improvement in how my body regulates inflammation.

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2. Systemic Inflammation Reset

COVID-19 can affect the body’s inflammatory systems in unpredictable ways. After fighting off the virus, my body may have undergone a kind of "reboot" in how it manages inflammation.

• Healing After Severe Inflammation: The intense inflammatory response during COVID could have been followed by a natural rebalancing phase. During this recovery, my knee joints might have benefited from reduced inflammation.
• Localized Impact: It’s possible that immune responses targeting the virus inadvertently reduced inflammation in other areas, including my knees.

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3. Delayed Effect of Hyaluronic Acid

Before COVID, I had received hyaluronic acid injections, which are known to lubricate the joints and provide some pain relief. While the results weren’t immediate, it’s possible that the injections played a longer-term role in healing or regeneration, and the relief simply coincided with my COVID recovery.

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4. Lifestyle Changes During Illness and Recovery

During my illness and recovery, my activity levels likely changed. Reduced movement might have eased stress on my knees, allowing for healing. Additionally, if I lost weight or adjusted my diet (possibly consuming fewer inflammatory foods), these changes could have contributed to the improvement.

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5. Spontaneous Remission or Long-Term Healing

Arthritis symptoms can sometimes improve unpredictably or even go into remission. While rare, it’s possible that the combination of infection, treatments, and recovery served as a catalyst for spontaneous healing in my case.

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6. Changes in Pain Perception

COVID-19 and its treatments can influence the nervous system, potentially altering how the body processes pain. It’s possible that the infection or therapies affected pain signaling pathways, effectively "resetting" how my brain perceived the chronic pain in my knees.

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A Mystery to Reflect On

My experience highlights the complex and unpredictable ways our bodies respond to illnesses and treatments. While I cannot pinpoint the exact reason for my newfound pain-free life, I am grateful for this unexpected blessing. Whether it was the immune system's recalibration, a byproduct of the treatments, or even an inexplicable remission, this remarkable change has transformed my daily life.

To fully understand the mechanisms at play, consulting with specialists in rheumatology or immunology could provide further insights. Perhaps my story might even contribute to broader research on the interplay between infections, treatments, and chronic conditions. Whatever the explanation, I treasure this unexpected gift of pain-free knees—and the mystery that surrounds it.

any thoughts?

Re-Visiting the Foul Dust of Postmodern Deconstruction: Fight Club

During a snow bound cabin fever day, I found some notes from the 1999 movie Fight Club- originally a part of my research into postmodern cinema. Wow—what an experience.

Directed by David Fincher and based on Chuck Palahniuk's novel, Fight Club is often heralded as a cult classic, praised for its provocative critique of consumerism, its gritty cinematography, and its ability to blur the lines between reality and madness. Watching it with fresh eyes decades after it first was released, I was struck by how deeply it engages with postmodern thought—particularly its deconstruction of societal norms, identity, and truth. Yet, as clever and visually gripping as the movie is, it also lays bare the dark side of postmodern philosophy.

The film follows an unnamed narrator (played by Edward Norton), who becomes disillusioned with his corporate, consumer-driven existence. He forms an unlikely friendship with the anarchic Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt), and together, they create an underground fight club that grows into a revolutionary movement. The film critiques the emptiness of modern materialism, lampooning the obsession with things like IKEA furniture and "lifestyle perfection." It cleverly juxtaposes reality and absurdity, pulling the audience into a world where the boundaries of morality and logic dissolve.

But what struck me most was how Fight Club exposes the logical endpoint of postmodern thinking when taken to its extreme. If all truth is subjective and we are free to construct our own personal realities, what prevents those realities from descending into chaos, destruction, and violence?

This is where the movie raises unsettling questions:

• Why was it important to have rules for Fight Club if the movement was about rejecting societal structures?
• Why was it significant that no one was killed during the final acts of destruction?
• Why did Tyler Durden demand devotion and loyalty from his followers if individuality and freedom were the core principles of his philosophy?

The irony is palpable. While deconstructing the oppressive structures of modernity, Tyler inadvertently builds a new system that is equally oppressive. His "Project Mayhem" enforces rigid rules, blind obedience, and a destructive nihilism that mirrors the very systems it seeks to overthrow.

To me, this highlights the ultimate failure of postmodernism as a worldview. By cutting loose from any absolute truth or moral compass, we are left adrift in a sea of randomness—where meaning is fluid, and justice becomes arbitrary. As Fight Club shows, this void can quickly fill with despair, violence, and tyranny. Tyler's rebellion against consumerism and conformity morphs into something darker: a cult-like devotion to destruction for its own sake.

The film’s final moments are haunting. As skyscrapers crumble to the ground, the narrator, now aware of Tyler's true nature, watches helplessly. It’s a poignant reminder that without a grounding in something greater—something transcendent—human freedom often spirals into chaos.

Watching Fight Club was like stepping inside that dark world for a brief moment. It left me grateful for the canopy of grace under which I live—the steadfast truth of Jesus Christ. He is the Logos, the Savior, the Creator, and my Friend. In Him, I find not randomness, but order; not despair, but hope.

I grieve for those trapped in their personal postmodern hells, desperately searching for meaning in a universe they believe to be cold and indifferent. The emptiness of nihilism is no foundation for a flourishing life.

What do you think about Fight Club and its commentary on postmodernism? Is there a message of hope hidden within its chaos? Or is it a mirror reflecting the inevitable consequences of rejecting ultimate truth?

Note: My classmate and Banks teammate, David Lee Smith plays the character – Walter in the film.

When the Son of Man Returns in the Era of AI: Faith, Deception, and Discernment

It took a LONG time for me to get all of this podcast in- I was AMAZED by Wesley Huff and I appreciate the questions and dialogue by Rogan. As the church, we are in a unique time with more opportunity than ever to present the historical evidence for Jesus and the trustworthiness of the gospel accounts...... will we step up? When the Son of Man returns will He find faith on the earth?

In a recent, super intriguing episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan and Wesley Huff discussed (among MANY things) a profound hypothetical: if Jesus were to return in a world dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), would humanity be able to recognize Him? 

Rogan speculated, “If Jesus does return, but when he returns, we’re just so confused that we can’t even tell.” In a time where deepfakes, AI-generated images, and virtual realities blur the lines between the real and the simulated, this question forces us to consider the implications of faith and discernment in an era of technological deception.

Rogan's concern is deeply relevant: “Imagine if we really reach a point where virtual reality is indistinguishable from regular reality. How would we know?” This reflects the growing skepticism of modern society, where even empirical evidence can be manipulated. In such a context, the return of Christ—an event anticipated as undeniable and transformative—may be met with unprecedented doubt and confusion.

Biblical Foundations on End-Times Deception

Scripture provides a sobering warning about deception in the last days. Revelation 13:11-18 describes the Beast of the Land, often interpreted as the False Prophet, who performs “signs and wonders to deceive the inhabitants of the earth.” This figure’s ability to create convincing illusions parallels modern concerns about technology’s potential to manipulate reality.

Jesus Himself warned of this in Matthew 24:24: “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” The advent of AI and VR could be tools through which such deception manifests, challenging even the faithful.

Yet, Jesus assures believers in John 10:27: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This promise underscores the importance of a personal relationship with Christ, enabling His followers to discern His voice amidst the noise.

Rogan’s reflections touch on a broader theological truth. He remarked, “If you do live like a Christian and you do follow the principles of Christ, you will have a richer, more love-filled life.” The transformative power of faith offers a way to navigate the uncertainties of the modern world, grounding believers in eternal truths rather than transient technological realities. To be clear, faith in Jesus is a step further, we don't believe because it works.... we believe because it is true.... I don't have time or space to delve into the almost but not yet attempts our culture does in applying an ideology, or moralism.... but that is not what Jesus is claiming or demanding...

But I have to appreciate the fact that he IS WRESTLING...(you need to listen to the entire podcast and be ready to ne awestruck by Wes Huff's depth of expertise....

Rogan’s skepticism about Jesus’ identity—“You have to submit to this concept that this guy was the child of God who came down to Earth…and then said, alright, see you when I come back”—highlights the challenge of faith in an empirical age. The very idea of Christ’s return, already difficult for some to grasp, becomes even more contentious when placed in the context of virtual illusions and AI-generated realities.

As technology advances, Christians must cultivate spiritual discernment to recognize truth amidst deception. The Apostle Paul’s admonition in 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 is more relevant than ever: “Test everything. Hold on to what is good. Reject every kind of evil.”

This discernment requires:

• A Deep Relationship with Christ: Jesus’ assurance in John 10:27 reminds believers that recognizing His voice is rooted in intimacy with Him.

• Engagement with Scripture: Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Immersion in God’s Word provides clarity and guidance in confusing times.

• Community Accountability: Hebrews 10:25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together, especially as “the Day approaches.” A faith community can help discern truth from falsehood.

Could the very nature of Christ’s return address these challenges? Acts 1:11 promises that Jesus will return “in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven”—a visible, unmistakable event. Yet, the possibility of technological interference raises questions about how humanity might interpret such an event.

Some might argue that Christ’s return in an age of AI would amplify the need for faith. Rogan mused, “That would be the ultimate test of faith, right, when it’s impossible to discern.” This paradox—a visible return in a society unable to trust its perceptions—highlights the importance of spiritual readiness.

Ultimately, the era of AI challenges believers to trust in the unchanging Christ rather than their senses. Hebrews 13:8 declares, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” This truth provides assurance that no matter how reality is manipulated, Christ’s message and mission remain constant.

In a world increasingly shaped by artificial realities, the call to faith becomes both a challenge and an opportunity. For believers, this path is illuminated by the Holy Spirit’s guidance, ensuring that even in an age of deception, they will recognize the voice of the true Shepherd.

For more info feel free to read my posts on Revelation and The Olivet Discourse.

The Words for "Prayer" in the Bible

What exactly is prayer? Prayer is a powerful and intimate act - a way to connect with God that goes beyond just asking for things. 

The words used for prayer in the Bible offer deep insight into the nature of this conversation, and by understanding them, we can enrich our own prayer lives. When we explore the Hebrew and Greek terms for prayer, we uncover layers of meaning that help us grasp the full depth of what it means to communicate with God.

In the Old Testament, one of the most common words for prayer is tefillah, which comes from the root word palal, meaning "to judge" or "to evaluate." This tells us that prayer isn’t just about asking for what we want. It’s about aligning our hearts and minds with God’s will. Prayer becomes a moment of reflection, a time to evaluate our lives and bring our desires into harmony with His purposes.

This may sound confusing- prayer is to evaluate? or judge?.....

We see this beautifully in King Solomon's prayer during the dedication of the temple. As Solomon stood before the altar, asking for God's blessing, he also longed for God’s justice and righteousness to reign among His people.

“Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear, forgive.” (2 Chronicles 6:21)

In this context, it reflects more than just a request or petition. The word carries a nuance that prayer is not just about asking God for things, but also involves an internal process of reflection and self-assessment in the light of God's will.

In the Old Testament, particularly in the context of palal, prayer can be seen as a process of standing before God, not only to request or plead but to also reflect on one's own life. It's a moment to evaluate whether your desires, actions, and heart align with God's purposes. It’s like a form of self-examination before God, allowing the individual to consider their relationship with Him, their motives, and their obedience to His commands.

 Solomon wasn’t simply asking for God's blessings on the people. He also acknowledged the need for God’s justice and mercy, and the importance of the people aligning with God’s will. He recognized that prayer was a means of aligning the hearts of the people to God’s ways. His prayer was both a plea for mercy and a call for God’s righteous judgment to be enacted upon the people—emphasizing the desire for righteousness to prevail, not just personal blessings.

The phrase “hear and forgive” sort of connects the idea that prayer is a way for individuals, small groups, congregations, communities, and even nations to evaluate their standing before God. Solomon was asking that God not only listen to the prayers of the people but also evaluate them, correct them, and bring them into right relationship with Him. 

It’s a dynamic exchange—where, through prayer, God’s will can refine and correct us, and our desires are shaped to reflect His heart.

In this light, prayer becomes an act of mutual engagement: it involves both God's judgment (evaluation) on our lives and our alignment with His will. It’s a process of growth, of becoming more like God as we bring our lives, thoughts, and desires before Him.

Another Hebrew word for prayer is qara', meaning "to call out" or "summon." This word paints a picture of prayer as a heartfelt cry to God, especially in times of need. When the prophet Joel declared, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” he reminded us that God is always ready to hear those who reach out to Him in sincerity. This word highlights the personal and relational nature of prayer—it's not just a ritual, but a cry to our loving Father, who is always near.

“Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord. The god who answers by fire—he is God.” (1 Kings 18:24)

In the New Testament, we find the Greek word proseuchē, which is used for prayer in a broad sense, encompassing worship, thanksgiving, and petitions. Jesus used this word when teaching His disciples how to pray, reminding them that prayer is about more than just asking for things. It’s a way to commune with God, to praise Him, confess our sins, and ask for His help in our lives. The Lord’s Prayer, with its balance of adoration, confession, and supplication, is a perfect example of proseuchē.

“And He said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’” (Luke 11:2)

Another cool example of proseuchē is found in Revelation 5:8, where "προσευχαί" (proseuchai), which directly translates to "prayers." The full phrase in Greek is:

"χρυσὰ θυμίαμα ὅσα εἰσιν αἱ προσευχαι τῶν ἁγίων"
(chorus thymiama os einai hai proseuchai ton hagion)

This means "golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." 

Our prayers are the incense of heaven? That is a pretty amazing concept!

Another Greek word, deēsis, focuses on specific requests, especially those born out of need. Paul encourages believers to bring their requests to God with thanksgiving, trusting that He will provide. This word emphasizes the earnestness and trust we should have when presenting our desires to God, knowing He cares deeply about every detail of our lives.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

One final word to consider is proskuneō, which means "to kiss forward." It’s often used to describe acts of reverence and adoration, including physical gestures like bowing or kneeling. In Revelation, we see proskuneō used when the elders and living creatures fall down before the Lamb, worshiping Him and offering their prayers- though the word does not literally mean "prayer" it was their posture as they prayed (the incense I mentioned earlier....)

"And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down (proskuneō) before the Lamb." Revelation 5:8

Do we HAVE to kneel, close eyes, fold hands to pray? I don't think there is enough Biblical direction to mandate a physical posture.... However, when we think of the symbolic posture of repentance being in sackcloth and ashes, and the bowing or kneeling inferred in proskuneō.

I do believe kneeing to pray is a very humble posture and can be of great benefit.

_____________________________

These biblical words show us that prayer is far more than a simple request list. It’s worship, an act of aligning our hearts with God’s will. It’s a cry for help, a way to express our need for His guidance and intervention. It’s trust, where we bring our requests to God with confidence, knowing He listens and cares. It’s also a way to stand in the gap for others, lifting them up in intercession.

So, what does this mean for us today? When we pray, we’re not just repeating words; we’re engaging in a deep, personal dialogue with the Creator of the universe. Whether we are crying out in desperation, offering thanks, or simply sitting in His presence, prayer is a way to connect with God in a meaningful and transformative way. As we learn from the prayers in Scripture, we are invited into a deeper relationship with God, one that encompasses every part of our lives and draws us closer to Him.

In short, it is this simple, but also profound and mysterious

.... "pray without ceasing", (1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV)

Rails of Streetcars Past

As a boy, I remember the faint traces of a bygone era in my city. The rails of streetcars still etched into the streets, though the cars themselves were long gone—bright, humming boxes that once brought life and rhythm to the neighborhoods they passed through. They offered riders fleeting glimpses into backyards, markets, and cityscapes, snapshots of a slower pace of life. Over time, the streetcars disappeared, leaving behind only the silent testimony of those iron tracks.

This memory resurfaced recently when I stumbled across Michael McDonald’s What a Fool Believes: A Memoir. In it, he recounts a summer day in 1956, riding with his father on his final day as a streetcar driver. The details in his story painted such a vivid picture:

"Times were changing, and these electric streetcars were being phased out. My dad arranged to have me join him on this sentimental journey... The streetcar, a PCC Streamliner, was like a giant art deco toaster: beautiful on the outside, hotter than hell on the inside... I can still hear the summer trees rustle as we sped close by them and see the late-afternoon sunlight flickering through their leaves."

Reading this, I could almost feel the summer breeze through the window, hear the hum of the electric motor, and see the lives of strangers pass by in flashes. McDonald’s reflection struck me with a profound truth: so much of life, once vibrant and tangible, fades into obscurity with time. Generational experiences vanish, replaced by new realities foreign to those who follow.

This inspired a thought experiment: How much do we lose with the passage of time? What stories, traditions, and rhythms of life remain only in the hearts of those who lived them? The streetcars were not just a means of transportation; they were a window into life itself—one that now exists only in memories.

Moved by these thoughts, I wrote a song called Rails of Streetcars Past. It’s a tribute to those echoes of the past, a longing to capture what’s been lost to time. Here’s an excerpt:

There’s a whisper in the street, where the iron tracks remain,
A song of motion lost to time, now only rust and rain.
Bright boxes painted red and gold, they used to glide with class,
Now all that’s left are shadows—rails of streetcars past.

We live in an age where the old is constantly being replaced by the new, often before we’ve had a chance to appreciate what was. But every so often, a memory surfaces—a sound, a smell, a story—and reminds us of what once was. For me, it was the rails of streetcars past.

Here is the song:

Rails of Streetcars Past (CV)

Just Be Mom- not 'Supermom'

I originally posted this in 2008 and thought it needed some freshening and re-posting

Who can truly count the value of motherhood? What an impossible task! It is a calling so immense, so profound, that words inevitably fall short. 

 Motherhood is not a performance or a race—it is a journey, walked hand in hand with the Lord. Remember, Proverbs 31 is not a checklist to overwhelm you, any more than 1 Corinthians 13 is for love. These passages are descriptions of the work of the Spirit in and through us. Trust God to guide you step by step. It is His work in you, and He blesses through the circumstances of your life. Lean into Him, and He will sustain you.

A Legacy Worth Noting

Let me hold up as an example Sarah Edwards, the remarkable, though often unknown, wife of theologian and pastor Jonathan Edwards.

Much of it is recounted in a wonderful book entitled “Marriage to a Difficult Man- The Uncommon Union of Jonathan and Sarah Edwards”, written by Elisabeth D. Dodds.

Sarah’s life was not an easy one. As the mother of 11 children and the wife of a man wholly devoted to ministry, Sarah bore the immense weight of managing her home, nurturing her children, and supporting her husband in his demanding work. She endured what many Puritan women faced: long hours, little rest, and endless responsibilities.

Yet, her legacy is extraordinary. A.E. Winship conducted a famous study comparing two families: the notorious “Jukes” and the Edwards family.

The Jukes (an anonymous name Winship used to protect the actual family), a family originating from one 18th-century immigrant, were described as a “tribe of idleness, ignorance, and vulgarity.” Over 1,200 descendants cost the state of New York $1.2 million in welfare and custodial care. Only 20 of the 1200 Jukes had ever had gainful employment!

In stark contrast, Sarah Edwards’ family line, built on her faith, resilience, and reliance on God, produced an astounding legacy of contribution to society:

• 13 college presidents
• 65 professors
• 100 lawyers, including a law school dean
• 30 judges
• 66 physicians, including a dean of a medical school
• 80 public officials, including:
  • 3 U.S. senators
  • Mayors of 3 large cities
  • 3 state governors
  • A U.S. vice president
  • A controller of the U.S. Treasury
• 135 authors
• Hundreds of missionaries

Winship observed:
“Much of the capacity and talent, intensity and character, of more than 1,400 of the Edwards family is due to Mrs. Edwards.”

Sarah’s story reminds us of the power of faithfulness. She could not have known the full extent of her impact, but her quiet, steadfast trust in God bore eternal fruit.

Mothers, your labor is not in vain. The daily grind, the sleepless nights, the moments when you wonder if you are making a difference—all of it matters.

Sarah Edwards’ legacy was not about perfection but faithfulness. She leaned on God and trusted Him to work through her. You are called to do the same.

• When you feel overwhelmed, remember: God’s grace is sufficient.
• When you feel unseen, know that God sees every act of love and sacrifice.
• When you feel like you’ve fallen short, trust that God works through even your imperfections.

You may not see the full harvest of your work, but be assured: the seeds you are planting now have the potential to bless generations to come.

My prayer for you, dear moms, is that you would see the fruit of your labor. I pray that you would find joy even in the mundane moments and hope in the hard ones. May you know the depth of God’s love for you, and may His strength sustain you as you pour yourself out for your families.

You are loved, cherished, and appreciated beyond words. Thank you for your beautiful labor of love.

Bless you!

Navigating the Gray: Finding a Compass and Road Forward in a World Gone Mad

First thoughts- 2025.......

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

[8] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. [9] What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4–9 ESV)

The world feels like it’s spiraling into chaos. Conflicts rage across the globe—in the Middle East, between Russia and Ukraine, and within our own borders as political upheaval and economic disparity strain the very fabric of society. Fear and anger seem to drive the day, and everywhere you look, there is mistrust, division, and a sense that we’ve lost our way.

It doesn’t help that the extremes on both the right and the left dominate the conversation. On one side, there is the loud insistence on rigid tradition, nationalism, and distrust of institutions. On the other, there is an unyielding focus on identity, cancel culture, and a disdain for any opposing view. These extremes don’t just oppose each other—they feed off one another, pulling the center further apart and leaving no room for dialogue, let alone solutions.

The Overton Window—a term coined by Joseph P. Overton—refers to the range of ideas and policies that are considered politically and socially acceptable at any given time. This range is not fixed; it shifts based on public perception, media influence, and the actions of influential figures or movements. When the Overton Window shifts dramatically, as it has in recent years, ideas that were once moderate can suddenly appear extreme, while previously fringe views may gain mainstream acceptance. This phenomenon often leaves moderates stranded, mischaracterized, and marginalized.

In this environment, fear rules the day. Fear of being canceled, fear of betrayal, fear of losing ground to “the other side.” It’s as though we’ve forgotten how to listen, how to work together, how to build something lasting and good. We’ve chosen to fight over every scrap of ideological territory instead of searching for the common ground that could unite us. And the cost of this division is staggering: broken communities, paralyzed governments, and a society that feels increasingly unstable and unsafe.

But there is another way. 

For me, as a Christian, the path forward begins with staying engaged. Disengagement—whether out of fear or frustration—is not an option. I need to be a voice of peace, forgiveness, and love in a culture that seems bent on tearing itself apart. That doesn’t mean retreating from the chaos; it means stepping into it with courage and an olive branch in hand. It means trusting God for justice while leading with grace.

Paul's words to the Philippians can really help us in this time- it is a great verse to help us navigate the gray.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;

To navigate the gray, I believe we must be forceful and courageous enough to speak out against the extremes on both the left and the right. This isn’t about taking the easy road of criticizing “the other side” while excusing our own—it’s about being honest enough to call out the wrong wherever we see it. And it’s about promoting values that unify rather than divide: free speech, the welfare of others, and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. This is REASONABLE.... a lot of what we are contending with in our world right now is UN-reasonable.

And we can do this with a positive spirit- REJOICE!- The Lord is at hand.... nothing He allows will be beyond His eternal control.

I’m convinced that the root of this crisis isn’t political—it’s moral and spiritual. No government policy or election outcome can heal what’s broken. That healing, I believe, is found in following the teachings of Jesus: loving our neighbors, seeking justice tempered by mercy, and walking humbly with God. But even as I hold to this conviction, I know I must respect the dialogue of the marketplace. We need spaces where people of all beliefs can agree to stand for peace, non-violence, and a society of laws that protect people, their families, their freedoms, and their property.

The first steps are simple but not easy. They involve listening more than speaking, seeking understanding instead of assuming the worst, and extending grace even to people where it’s undeserved. They involve staying engaged even when the work feels impossible, and trusting that small acts of kindness and courage can ripple outward in ways we may never see. And above all, they involve holding fast to hope—hope that light can still pierce the darkness, and that the world, though mad, is not beyond redemption.

As we engage the culture, we have a roadmap for collective values and the promotion of the common good under the common grace of the Almighty.

whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Our culture at large will never completely agree on a list.... but there are some obvious things we can all agree on..... if we can't rally around that, chaos will burn it all to the ground.

It's funny how we make New Year's resolutions this time of year and to be honest, they are shallow and self focused a lot of the time. And it makes sense.... "What can I do to solve issues in the UK?"

However, there are things I can do to be better, make my small community better, and hopefully our nation and world better.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

For me, I need to remember PRAYER. There are a lot of people who have given up on prayer, doubt it, mock it, and rebel against it.

But prayer is a position that I am powerless to do much good and a cry to ONE who can. It's the one thing we can all do and it has an amazing by-product.

I was challenged during the Christmas break to not write a whole bunch of resolutions, but just pick one word for 2025. 

So here is mine.... PRAYER.

And if I am successful in doing that?

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

So this January, I'm going to be posting some pieces on prayer, I should have predicted the Lord was leading me this way, because He had already put some thoughts in my head on an earlier post in December- 

A Post on Prayer and a Rooster's Crow

The best way to fulfill a resolution is to build in some accountability- anyone want to explore the month of January with me to flesh out a practical and sustainable practice of prayer?

Feel free to reach out - jayopsis@gmail.com