We
often don’t realize how important something is until it’s not there.
For example, we may not think much of a light bulb until we’re fumbling
in the dark. Similarly, to appreciate how much truth matters, consider
the impact of its absence.
When our faith isn’t grounded in truth, we ...
Become vulnerable to wrong teaching.
Develop habits that don’t align with God’s will, because we don’t know what it is.
Can stay trapped in emotional bondage.
Experience continual disappointment because our peace is gone.
Can’t grow spiritually.
Grieve God’s heart.
All
relationships require honesty. If we develop a reputation for not
telling the truth, our friendships and testimony will be damaged. Not
only that, but our self-image will also suffer. And unless we repent, we
won’t reach our full potential. This isn’t how God wants us to live—He
wants so much more for us.
Today’s passage tells us
“to put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created
in righteousness and holiness of the truth” (v. 24). He made us for a
purpose (Jeremiah 29:11) and wants us to live in truth so we can walk with Him, enjoying all the blessings He has in store for us.
Golf is a
game that requires a combination of a few different skills. The first is
the ability to put the ball in play with a tee shot. The next is the
approach shot to the green. The last step, and most important, is the
short game. The short game is a combination of pitching, chipping,
bunker shots, and putting.
Why is short game so important?
A
golfer’s short game is a part of golf that is often overlooked. Many
golfers neglect their short game because they want to be able to hit
long drives. Golfers think they will play well because they hit the ball
further than others. This is a common misconception. The majority of
shots are played on or around the green. This is why it is instrumental
to have a sharp short game.
Types of short game shots
Pitching:
Mastering the pitching technique is essential for achieving accurate
and controlled shots around the green. Focus on maintaining a consistent
tempo, using the proper club selection, and executing a smooth,
controlled swing. Develop a reliable short backswing and follow through
with a downward strike to generate optimal height and spin.
Chipping: Chipping
requires precision and touch. Use a variety of clubs, such as a
pitching wedge, sand wedge, or even a hybrid, to execute a range of chip
shots depending on the lie and desired trajectory. Practice distance
control by varying the length of your backswing and focusing on the
rhythm of your swing. Experiment with different landing spots to develop
versatility in approaching the green.
Bunker Shots: Bunker
shots can be intimidating but with proper technique, they can be
mastered. Start by opening the clubface and aiming slightly left of your
target. Position the ball slightly forward in your stance and focus on
making a shallow, controlled swing. Use the sand to your advantage by
entering the sand a couple of inches before striking the ball, allowing
the club to slide underneath it.
Putting: Arguably
the most crucial aspect of the short game, putting demands precision
and consistency. Develop a consistent putting routine, focusing on
alignment, grip, and a smooth pendulum-like stroke. Practice lag putting
to improve distance control, and dedicate time to mastering short putts
to ensure confidence under pressure.
Ways to Improve
Focus on Distance Control: One
of the keys to success in the short game is distance control. Practice
hitting shots to specific targets at various distances to develop a feel
for different clubs and swing lengths. This will enhance your ability
to gauge the necessary force and touch required for different shots
around the green.
Mental Game: The short game
heavily relies on mental fortitude and decision-making. Stay focused and
visualize your shots before execution. Develop a pre-shot routine that
helps you get into the right mindset and approach each shot with
confidence.
Practice Variety: Vary your practice
sessions to simulate real-life playing conditions. Include uphill,
downhill, and sidehill lies in your training routine. Experiment with
different slopes and bunker conditions to become comfortable with a wide
range of scenarios you might encounter on the course.
Short Game Challenges: Set
up specific challenges or games during practice sessions to enhance
competitiveness and simulate on-course pressure. For example, create a
putting course with different distances and obstacles or challenge
yourself to get out of a bunker in the fewest strokes possible.
Conclusion
The
short game is arguably the most difficult part of golf. There is no
doubt that it is the most important. It is something that every player
must master if they want to be great.
In
the Garden of Gethsemane, hours before His arrest, Jesus prayed for the
disciples: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth” (John
17:17). A little later, when questioned by Pilate, Jesus replied that
He’d come into the world to testify to the truth. This prompted Pilate’s
philosophical question that people today still ask: “What is truth?” (John 18:37-38).
The meaning of the word corresponds to what actually is,
not what we feel or wish were true. We may avoid truth—or water it down
or cover it up—because it can be uncomfortable to expose weakness or
bring wrongdoing into the light.
Truth is so
important it’s mentioned almost 200 times in Scripture. In fact, in
chapters 17 and 18, which describe Jesus’ last hours before the
crucifixion, the word is mentioned six times. Here’s why it matters so
much: When truth loses its supreme position in our life, everything
begins to crumble.
But truth is more than factual or
accurate information. It’s a way of living that removes barriers and
sets people free to enjoy the abundant life Christ wants for us. (See John 10:10.) He is “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), and by following Him, we’ll discover the key to true peace and fulfillment.
How can you pursue truth in a greater way this year? This month? This week?
Yesterday, Mitch
McConnell had another deer-in-the-headlight moment when questioned about
running for re-election in 2026. Tucker Carlson predicts the Biden
administration will start a war with Russia to secure the election.
Also, the late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert,
John Oliver, and Seth Meyers dropped a trailer for their new podcast,
Strike Force 5, and it’s hella cringy. Tune in. Guest: Bryan Callen.
The rapid technological
advancements in the audio sector have made wireless earbuds more of a
necessity than a luxury. From Apple's AirPods to Samsung's Galaxy Buds,
these little gadgets have become an integral part of our daily lives.
But as their usage skyrockets, so does the concern about their safety,
particularly when it comes to brain health.
The Growing Unease: Unpacking the Worries
Wireless earbuds operate using Bluetooth
technology, emitting a type of radiofrequency radiation in the process.
This has caused some people to wonder if placing such devices in close
proximity to the brain could have potential health risks. We've grown so
used to Bluetooth headphones that we barely pause to consider their
potential long-term effects. Already, we're exposed to various other
forms of radiation via cell phones and other gadgets.
Extreme viewpoints suggest that wireless
earbuds could "zap your brain's energy," leaving users feeling fatigued
or mentally exhausted. These arguments often gain traction on social
media platforms, where snippets of "research" can quickly go viral,
irrespective of their scientific credibility.
Digging into the Science: What Does Research Actually Say?
Before diving into panic mode, it's essential
to understand the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing
radiation. Ionizing radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays, carries
enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, leading to
cellular damage and an increased risk of cancer. Non-ionizing radiation,
like the type emitted by Bluetooth devices, is far less energetic and
doesn't have the same damaging effects.
Reports argue that AirPods, and other similar
devices, have not been proven to be harmful, based on studies examining
the health effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs). There's also no
substantive evidence to support the claim that Bluetooth earbuds
increase the risk for brain cancer. Moreover, it's important to note
that the radiation emitted by Bluetooth devices is extremely low
compared to other types of radiation. The power of radiation diminishes
with distance, and considering the proximity of earbuds to phone
devices, the overall exposure remains minimal.
Should You Be Worried?
Given the available scientific data, there's
little reason to believe that wireless earbuds pose a serious threat to
brain health. However, it's always wise to apply the principle of
moderation. Using wired headphones when you're at home or limiting your
Bluetooth earbud usage when not necessary could be small but impactful
ways to limit any potential exposure to radiation.
The Voice of Reason: Precaution is Not Paranoia
While there isn't concrete evidence supporting
the claims that wireless earbuds are detrimental to your brain, being
cautious does not hurt. Sometimes, precaution stems not from fear but
from a well-informed perspective. Simple practices such as taking
regular breaks, using speaker mode when possible, or even rotating
between wired and wireless options can be good habits to adopt.
Conclusion: Don't Toss Them Out Just Yet
While the fears around wireless earbuds and
brain health might seem alarming, current scientific evidence does not
validate these concerns. However, it's always a good idea to balance
convenience with caution. The debate on this topic is far from over, and
as technology continues to evolve, so will our understanding of its
long-term effects. Until then, you can continue to use your wireless
earbuds, but perhaps with a newfound awareness and a moderate approach.
After all, a bit of precaution today could potentially save you from
unforeseen troubles down the road.
David’s
battle with Goliath was more than a fight between two nations. It was a
defense of Jehovah’s name and a challenge to those who doubted His
supremacy.
King Saul doubted that the young man could
be victorious over a seasoned warrior like Goliath. But as David
pointed out in today’s passage, the only way a boy with a sling could
defeat the giant Philistine was by the Lord’s hand (v. 37). In
confronting Goliath, David showed courage, but what really drove him was
righteous indignation: “For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that
he has dared to defy the armies of the living God?” (v. 26).
Today
this narrative is often read merely as a triumphant underdog tale.
Modern audiences may take comfort in the belief that they’ll never have
to deal with such a scenario. But the real story is that David stood up
for God, and there are times when we should do the same. We don’t need a
degree to defend our faith. Our “smooth stones” (v. 40) are the truths
we’ve learned from the Bible. Just remember that whatever the outcome,
the battle is the Lord’s (v. 47), and He gives victory to the faithful.
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