Author: Margarita & Stace Crews

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THE SERPENT DECEIVED ME / GENESIS 3:13

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:13

And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.

The Serpent Deceived Me: Recognizing Satan’s Ultimate Weapon

In Genesis 3:13, after eating the forbidden fruit, Eve utters a phrase that has echoed through human history: “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

Deception was Satan’s first weapon, and it remains his most effective tool today. He rarely attacks the human race with open hostility; instead, he uses subtle distortions to mask deadly poison as desirable truth. To protect our lives, families, and churches, we must understand how this deception operates and how to stand against it.

1. Blinding the Minds of Unbelievers

Satan’s primary goal for those outside the faith is to keep them in darkness. He works actively to blind the minds of unbelievers so they cannot understand the gospel—the true, life-changing message of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:4). By twisting cultural values and promoting intellectual pride, he makes the truth of God look foolish or restrictive.

2. Creeping Into the Church

Deception does not stop at the church doors. The New Testament warns that Satan deceives people within the body of Christ into believing they can compromise with sin without consequence. Many fall into the trap of thinking they can live immoral lives while maintaining a healthy relationship with God. Scripture is clear: those who willingly live in unrighteousness are spiritually blind and have no part in God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 6:9; Galatians 5:21).

3. Preachings of the End Times

As history marches toward its conclusion, deception will scale to a global level. The Bible prophesies that Satan’s primary strategy for leading nations into final rebellion against God will be mass delusion (2 Thessalonians 2:8-12; Revelation 20:8). The closer we get to the end, the harder it will be to discern truth from lies without the Holy Spirit.

4. A Life-and-Death Struggle

For the Christian, spiritual warfare is an ongoing, daily reality. Satan is actively working to dismantle your personal integrity, your marriage, your family, your children’s schools, your workplace, and your local church (Matthew 24:4; Matthew 24:11; Matthew 24:24). To survive this onslaught, we must put on the full armor of God and anchor ourselves daily in the unchanging truth of Scripture (Ephesians 6:11).

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Almighty God,

We come before You recognizing that we live in a world filled with spiritual smoke and mirrors. Forgive us for the times we have allowed ourselves to be enticed by the subtle lies of the enemy. Lord, we ask for the gift of spiritual discernment today. Open our eyes to see the traps of the serpent before we step into them.

Protect our hearts from compromise and our minds from spiritual blindness. We pray for a fierce shield of protection over our marriages, our children, our jobs, and our churches. Bind the power of deception in our communities, and let the bright light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ pierce through every dark corner. Anchor us so deeply in Your Word that no lie can shake our foundation.

In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THEY HID / GENESIS 3:8
  2. THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7
  3. THE WOMAN … ATE IT … HER HUSBAND … WITH HER / GENESIS 3:6
  4. YOU WILL BE LIKE GOD / GENESIS 3:5
  5. YOU WILL NOT SURELY DIE / GENESIS 3:4
  6. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  7. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  8. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  9. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  10. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  11. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  12. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  13. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  14. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  15. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  16. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  17. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  18. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  19. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  20. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  21. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  22. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  23. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  24. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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THEY HID / GENESIS 3:8

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:8

 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.

Out of the Shadows: Moving from Guilt to Grace

Genesis 3:8 reveals the exact moment humanity traded the confidence of God’s presence for the isolation of fear and shame. The verse captures a haunting image: “And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.”

The Instinct to Hide

The awareness and guilt of sin cause an immediate shift in the human heart. For Adam and Eve, a sudden realization of their disobedience made them feel exposed, afraid, and deeply uncomfortable in the presence of a holy God. They knew they had defied His will, and that sinful condition instantly robbed them of their confidence.

We see this same pattern in our own lives today. When we fail, drop our standards, or harbor secret faults, our natural instinct mimics Genesis. We retreat into the shadows of:

  • Busyness to drown out conviction
  • Isolation from faith communities
  • Deflectiveness to mask our internal discomfort

This barrier impacts our inner moral compass, leaving us with a compromised stance before God and others (Acts 23:1; 24:16). Left to ourselves, we remain trapped behind the trees, separated from the very Source of life.

The Way Out of the Shadows

Fortunately, the story of humanity does not end in the bushes of Eden. God has provided a definitive way to cleanse our guilty consciences—our inner awareness of what is morally good and right—freeing us from sin and fully restoring our relationship with Him.

This narrow path to a renewed relationship is found exclusively through His Son, Jesus Christ (John 14:6).

[ Eden: Separation & Fear ] ──> [ The Cross: Full Penalty Paid ] ──> [ Throne of Grace: Confidence ]

Jesus came to earth to live the perfect life we could not live, ultimately giving that life to pay the full penalty for our sin. Because of His finished work on the cross, the divine invitation has changed completely:

  1. No More Turning Away: You no longer have to live under the weight of condemnation or avoid prayer.
  2. Clear Conscience: The blood of Jesus cleanses the deepest spiritual stains.
  3. Bold Access: We can now step out of hiding and approach God with absolute confidence.

Instead of expecting wrath, we can draw near to Him knowing we will receive love, mercy, grace, and timely help for our specific needs (Hebrews 4:16; 7:25). If you are hiding today, remember that the voice calling out to you in the cool of the day isn’t searching to condemn you—it is inviting you back home.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Forgive us for the times we have allowed guilt and fear to drive us into isolation. We confess that like Adam and Eve, we have sometimes tried to hide our failures from Your sight. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to pay the debt we could never afford and to cleanse our consciences completely.

We step out of the shadows today, trading our shame for Your righteousness. Help us to live with the bold confidence that we are fully accepted, deeply loved, and secure in Your grace. Thank You that we can always find mercy and help in our time of need.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7
  2. THE WOMAN … ATE IT … HER HUSBAND … WITH HER / GENESIS 3:6
  3. YOU WILL BE LIKE GOD / GENESIS 3:5
  4. YOU WILL NOT SURELY DIE / GENESIS 3:4
  5. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  6. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  7. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  8. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  9. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  10. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  11. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  12. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  13. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  14. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  15. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  16. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  17. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  18. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  19. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  20. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  21. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  22. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  23. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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THE WOMAN … ATE IT … HER HUSBAND … WITH HER / GENESIS 3:6

START YOUR DAY RIGHT WITH DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:6

And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

Separating the Truth: The Moment the World Changed

It is the most critical turning point in human history. Genesis 3:6 records the tragic moment: “The woman… ate it… her husband… with her.” In a single act of defiance, paradise was lost.

While the physical consequences of this choice took centuries to unfold, the spiritual devastation was immediate. Understanding what happened in the Garden of Eden clarifies the reality of the human condition we face today.

The Immediate Death

God gave a clear warning in Genesis 2:17: “When you eat of it you will surely die.” While Adam lived for 930 years physically, two other forms of death seized humanity the exact moment they disobeyed.

  • Moral Death: The divine life within Adam and Eve died instantly. Their pure natures became morally corrupt and impure, contrasting sharply with God’s holy essence.
  • Spiritual Death: Their intimate relationship with the Creator was shattered. Holy innocence was replaced by guilt, shame, and a terrifying fear of judgment.

The Inheritance of Sin

Ever since that day, every human being enters the world inheriting this broken condition. We do not just commit sins; we are born with a sinful nature.

This inherited corruption is an innate, powerful pull toward selfishness. It drives us to seek satisfaction for ourselves with total disregard for God or the people around us. Scripture consistently validates this ongoing internal struggle from Genesis to the New Testament (Genesis 6:5; Romans 8:5-8; Ephesians 2:3).

Personal Choice and the Law of Sin

It is important to understand what the Bible does not teach. Scripture does not state that you bear the personal guilt of Adam’s specific act of eating the fruit.

Instead, Adam introduced the law of sin and death to the human race. He opened the floodgates. Because the virus of sin entered the world through him, every single one of us has willingly chosen to follow in his footsteps, turning to our own way instead of God’s.

The tragedy of Genesis 3:6 is a mirror. It shows us why the world is broken, why we struggle internally, and why we desperately need a Savior to restore the life that was lost.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We look at the tragedy of the fall and recognize the same sinful nature alive within our own hearts. We confess that we have willfully turned to our own ways and sought satisfaction apart from You. Thank You for not leaving us dead in our transgressions. We praise You for sending Jesus Christ to break the law of sin and death that Adam introduced. Restore our relationship with You, purify our desires, and guide our steps away from selfishness and into Your perfect truth.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7
  2. YOU WILL BE LIKE GOD / GENESIS 3:5
  3. YOU WILL NOT SURELY DIE / GENESIS 3:4
  4. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  5. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  6. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  7. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  8. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  9. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  10. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  11. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  12. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  13. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  14. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  15. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  16. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  17. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  18. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  19. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  20. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  21. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  22. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Posted on

YOU WILL BE LIKE GOD / GENESIS 3:5

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:5

For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

The Ancient Deception: The Danger of Becoming Your Own God

In the quiet of the Garden of Eden, the enemy whispered a lie that would echo through human history. It was a promise packaged as a promotion, but it was designed as a trap: “You will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5).

From that very first deception, Satan’s primary strategy has never changed. He continues to tempt humanity to believe that we can occupy the throne of the Almighty. He tells us that we have the authority to decide for ourselves what is good and what is evil, what is right and what is wrong.

The Great Separation

When Adam and Eve reached for the forbidden fruit, they were looking for autonomy. However, the unexpected result of trying to be “like God” was a devastating paradox. Instead of rising to divine heights, they separated themselves from God Almighty. By rejecting His standard, they effectively became false gods to themselves (Genesis 3:22).

We see this same pattern in our culture today. Modern society heavily promotes the idea of “your truth” and self-governance. People routinely try to gain moral knowledge and make ethical judgments using their own shifting reasoning rather than the unchanging reality of God’s Word. We have traded the absolute authority of the Creator for the fragile, flawed authority of the creature.

Yet, human opinion cannot rewrite cosmic law. God remains the ultimate and absolute judge of right and wrong.

The Fate of False Gods

Scripture gives us a sobering warning about the destination of self-deification. In Jeremiah 10:10-11, the prophet reminds us that the Lord is the true and everlasting King. In contrast, all who act like they are their own gods “will perish from the earth and from under the heavens.”

This tragic end is not just reserved for the ancient world; it is the ultimate destination of all rebellion. The Bible notes that this will also be the exact fate of the end-times antichrist, who will take his seat in the temple of God, “claiming to be God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). His ultimate defeat stands as a permanent reminder that no one can successfully rival the Creator.

When we try to steer our own moral compass apart from Scripture, we aren’t finding freedom. We are falling for the oldest lie in the book. True wisdom begins with a simple, humble admission: He is God, and we are not. Let us lay down our desire for autonomy and find our security in His truth.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly God, Almighty Father,

We come before You today recognizing that You alone are the Creator, the Sustainer, and the Ultimate Judge of all the earth. Forgive us for the times we have allowed the ancient lie of Eden to creep into our hearts. Forgive us for the moments we have relied on our own understanding, leaned on our own reasoning, and tried to dictate what is right and wrong according to our own desires.

We surrender our need for control and autonomy to You. Strip away any pride that tells us we can be our own gods. Teach us to submit fully to Your Holy Word, knowing that Your commands are good, perfect, and life-giving. Keep our feet firmly planted in Your truth so that we are not swept away by the shifting morals of this world.

We declare today that You are our King, our Savior, and our Lord. May our lives bring honor to Your name alone.

In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7
  2. YOU WILL NOT SURELY DIE / GENESIS 3:4
  3. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  4. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  5. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  6. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  7. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  8. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  9. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  10. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  11. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  12. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  13. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  14. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  15. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  16. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  17. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  18. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  19. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  20. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  21. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Posted on

YOU WILL NOT SURELY DIE / GENESIS 3:4

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:4

And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:

You Will Not Surely Die: Unmasking the Ultimate Deception

In the quiet perfection of the Garden of Eden, the first human beings lived in absolute harmony with their Creator. God gave them immense freedom, paired with one clear, protective boundaries: “You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die” (Genesis 2:16-17). God expected total obedience and the acceptance of His Word as absolute truth.

Then came the whisper that changed human history.

In Genesis 3:4, Satan directly contradicted the Almighty, boldly telling the woman: “You will not surely die.”

The Anatomy of the First Lie

Satan knew that to separate humanity from God, he had to destroy their faith in God’s character and His instructions. He did this using a strategic, three-step deception that he still uses against us today:

  • Planting Doubt: He began by questioning God’s restrictions, making God appear withholding or unfair.
  • Attacking Motives: He suggested that God was hiding something beneficial from them.
  • Denying Judgment: Finally, he delivered the first lie ever told to mankind—the total denial of the death penalty for sin.

This is the ultimate root of all unbelief: doubting that God really means what He says about sin, righteousness, judgment, and eternity.

The Modern Echo of Eden

Satan’s most persistent and dangerous lie has not changed. Today, the cultural narrative constantly repeats that we can choose to sin, rebel against God, and redefine morality without facing spiritual consequences.

The New Testament repeatedly warns believers against falling for this same delusion:

  • 1 Corinthians 6:9 warns that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.
  • Galatians 5:21 reminds us that living in the desires of the flesh cuts us off from God’s kingdom.
  • 1 John 2:4 states plainly that anyone who claims to know God but disobeys His commands is a liar.

Believing that sin will not lead to separation from God is a fatal error. God is love, but He is also holy. His warnings are not meant to restrict our joy, but to protect our souls from eternal ruin. True freedom is found only in trusting His Word completely and walking in obedience.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Almighty God,

We come before You recognizing that Your Word is absolute truth, unchangeable and everlasting. Forgive us for the times we have allowed the subtle whispers of doubt, compromise, and worldly culture to erode our obedience to You. Give us the discernment to recognize the lies of the enemy that try to downplay the reality of sin and judgment.

Lord, root our hearts deeply in Your truth. Strengthen our faith so that we may stand firm against deception, always remembering that Your boundaries are designed for our protection and life. Fill us with a holy reverence for Your commands and a deep desire to live righteously in Your sight.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7
  2. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  3. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  4. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  5. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  6. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  7. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  8. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  9. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  10. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  11. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  12. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  13. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  14. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  15. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  16. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  17. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  18. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  19. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  20. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Posted on

THEY REALIZED THEY WERE NAKED / GENESIS 3:7

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:7

And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

Beyond the Fig Leaves: Understanding Genesis 3:7 and God’s Provision

In the beginning, humanity existed in a state of perfect transparency. Genesis 2:25 notes that Adam and Eve were both naked, and they felt no shame. There were no walls, no secrets, and no guilt. They were completely exposed before God and each other, yet perfectly safe.

Then came the rebellion.

When they ate the forbidden fruit, their eyes were opened, but their vision was distorted. Genesis 3:7 tells us, “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.”

The Shift from Innocence to Awareness

Before the fall, nakedness was a symbol of moral innocence. After sin entered the world, that same openness became a source of vulnerability and shame. The sudden awareness of their physical nakedness reflected a deeper, spiritual reality: their corrupt human condition.

With sin came the birth of ungodly desires. The human heart, once aligned with God, was now prone to temptation—the urge to misuse God-given desires in ways that contradict His perfect design. Nakedness in a fallen world was no longer safe; it became linked to vulnerability, exploitation, and improper desire.

Man’s Coverings vs. God’s Provision

Adam and Eve’s immediate reaction to their guilt was to hide and build their own defenses. They stitched together fig leaves—a fragile, temporary fix for a permanent, deep-seated problem. We still do this today when we try to cover our own mistakes, guilt, and insecurities with superficial fixes.

But human efforts can never truly cover sin.

Out of mercy, God stepped in. Genesis 3:21 records a pivotal moment: “The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.” To make these garments, an animal had to die. This was the very first sacrifice, a shadow of the ultimate sacrifice that would come centuries later through Jesus Christ. God showed that covering human shame requires a provision only He can make.

The Call to Modesty Today

Because of the brokenness and temptation that ungodly exposure introduces into the world, God established boundaries. Clothing was His idea, designed to protect humanity, preserve dignity, and restrain temptation.

Today, this principle carries over into the New Testament. In 1 Timothy 2:9, believers are commanded to dress modestly, with decency and propriety. Modesty is not about hiding beauty; it is about honoring God, respecting others, and recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. It shifts the focus from outward attention-seeking to inward character and reverence for God’s boundaries.

When we dress with modesty and live with integrity, we honor the rescue story that began in Genesis—moving from the shame of our own “fig leaves” into the grace of being clothed by God.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your immense mercy and grace. Lord, You see us exactly as we are—none of our flaws, guilt, or secrets are hidden from Your sight. Forgive us for the times we try to sew our own fig leaves, trying to hide our shortcomings through our own strength.

Thank You for covering our shame through the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We ask that You create in us clean hearts and renew a right spirit within us. Help us to guard our minds against ungodly desires and temptations.

Give us the wisdom and desire to walk in modesty, decency, and holiness. Let our outward presentation and our inward character reflect Your beauty, honoring the boundaries You set for our protection. Clothe us daily in Your righteousness, and let our lives bring glory to Your holy name.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1
  2. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  3. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  4. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  5. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  6. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  7. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  8. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  9. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  10. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  11. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  12. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  13. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  14. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  15. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  16. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  17. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  18. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  19. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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THE SERPENT / GENESIS 3:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Genesis 3:1

Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

The First Ray of Hope: Victory Over Darkness

In the shadows of humanity’s earliest rebellion, where shame and fear first entered the human heart, God did not abandon His creation. Instead, into the brokenness of Genesis, He spoke a revolutionary promise that would echo through eternity.

Genesis 3:15 stands as the Protoevangelium—the very first announcement of the Gospel. God declared to the serpent: “He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

A Divine Blueprint for Rescue

This profound verse lays out the ultimate spiritual conflict between the ultimate offspring of the woman, Jesus Christ, and the forces of evil. It serves as a prophetic roadmap for the restoration of humanity:

  • The Miraculous Offspring: God promised a Savior born of a woman, a prophecy later clarified by Isaiah’s foretelling of the virgin birth.
  • The Struck Heel: On the cross, Jesus suffered an unjust death. Satan believed he had won, but this agonizing wound was only temporary.
  • The Crushed Head: Through His triumphant resurrection, Jesus delivered a fatal blow to the enemy. He completely disarmed sin, death, and the devil.

What looked like a tragic defeat at Calvary was actually the execution of God’s master plan. The cross fractured the power of darkness, and the empty tomb sealed its absolute destruction.

Living in the Victory

Today, we do not fight for victory; we fight from victory. While spiritual warfare still rages around us, the final outcome has already been decided. Christ has broken the chains of sin and death to restore our relationship with the Father. When you face trials, temptation, or despair, remember that the enemy you face is already defeated. Your Savior holds the ultimate triumph.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your boundless mercy and for never giving up on us. Even in the Garden of Eden, You already had a perfect plan to rescue and restore Your children. Thank You for sending Jesus Christ to break the power of sin, death, and the enemy on our behalf.

When the world feels dark and the spiritual battles grow fierce, remind our hearts of the cross and the empty tomb. Help us to walk boldly in the absolute victory that Christ secured for us. We praise You that the enemy’s head is crushed and our future is forever secure in Your love.

In Jesus’ mighty and victorious name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER / GENESIS 2:24
  2. HELPER SUITABLE FOR HIM / GENESIS 2:18
  3. THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN / GENESIS 2:16-17
  4. PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN / GENESIS 2:15
  5. TREE OF LIFE / GENESIS 2:9
  6. GARDEN IN THE EAST, IN EDEN / GENESIS 2:8
  7. A LIVING BEING / GENESIS 2:7
  8. THE ACCOUNT – THE LORD GOD / GENESIS 2:4-6
  9. GOD BLESSED THE SEVENTH DAY / GENESIS 2:3
  10. BE FRUITFUL AND INCREASE / GENESIS 1:28
  11. GOD SAID LET US – LET US MAKE MAN / GENESIS 1:26
  12. SERVE AS SIGNS / GENESIS 1:14-15
  13. IT WAS GOOD / GENESIS 1:10
  14. THERE WAS EVENING, AND THERE WAS MORNING – THE FIRST DAY / GENESIS 1:5
  15. LET THERE BE LIGHT / GENESIS 1:3
  16. EARTH WAS FORMLESS AND EMPTY / GENESIS 1:2
  17. IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATED / GENESIS 1:1
  18. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 3:17

And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

The Trinity in Example: Glimpsing the Triune God at the Jordan River

The baptism of Jesus Christ is one of the most extraordinary revelations in the entire Bible because it provides a vivid, simultaneous picture of the Holy Trinity. At the banks of the Jordan River, the veil of heaven pulls back to reveal that the one true God exists eternally in three distinct, interrelated, and unified persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

While the word “Trinity” is not explicitly written in the scriptural text, the reality of our Triune God is undeniably stamped across this momentous event.

One Scene, Three Divine Persons

Matthew 3:16-17 shows us the distinct roles and perfect harmony of the Godhead in action:

  • God the Son In Submission: Jesus Christ, who is Himself fully God and equal with the Father, humbles Himself to be baptized in the water. He is not separate from God, but God incarnate standing in the Jordan River.
  • God the Holy Spirit In Presence: The Holy Spirit, who is also fully God and equal with the Father, visibly descends from the opened heavens like a dove, lighting upon Jesus to empower His earthly ministry.
  • God the Father In Declaration: God the Father speaks directly from heaven. He breaks the silence to claim and validate the Son, declaring: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17).
       [ God the Father ]  --> Speaks affirmation from Heaven
               |
               v
       [ God the Spirit ]  --> Descends like a dove
               |
               v
       [ God the Son    ]  --> Stands baptized in the Jordan

Unified, Not Divided

This beautiful encounter reminds us that we do not worship three separate gods. We worship one God in three persons who possess the exact same divine essence, power, and authority.

The same perfect unity displayed at the Jordan River is echoed throughout the New Testament. We see this foundational truth woven into the fabric of Scripture:

  • The Great Commission commands us to baptize in the singular name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
  • Apostolic blessings ground our daily walk in the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14).
  • Our election and salvation are secured by the foreknowledge of the Father, the sanctification of the Spirit, and the blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:2).

When you view Jesus at the Jordan, you are looking at the beautiful mystery of divine community. The Father loves the Son, the Son obeys the Father, and the Spirit seals and mediates that love to the world. As believers, we are invited to step into the overflow of that eternal fellowship.

Closing Prayer to the Triune God

Heavenly Father,
We stand in awe of the beautiful mystery of Your nature. Thank You for opening the heavens at the Jordan River to show us who You are. We praise You, Father, for Your voice of love and affirmation over Christ, which now extends to us through faith. We praise You, Lord Jesus, for Your perfect obedience, humility, and willingness to stand in our place. We praise You, Holy Spirit, for Your constant presence, resting upon us, guiding us, and filling us with divine power.

Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—help us to live in the reality of Your unified love today. May our lives reflect the harmony, community, and devotion that You demonstrate within Yourself.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  2. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  3. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  4. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  5. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  6. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  7. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  8. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  9. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  10. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  11. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1-2
  12. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  13. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  14. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  15. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  16. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID /MATTHEW 1:1
  17. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  18. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 3:16

And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

The Secret to Jesus’ Power (And It’s Available to You)

Matthew 3:16 marks a pivotal shift in history: “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.”

This moment was not just a beautiful visual event. It was the formal equipping of Jesus for His earthly mission. If you have ever wondered how Jesus accomplished the impossible, the answer lies entirely in this moment.

1. He Kept His Divinity, But Chose Dependence

Even though Jesus was fully God, He willingly laid aside and limited His divine rights and privileges. In becoming fully human, He chose to operate the exact same way we must. He lived as a man completely dependent on God’s Holy Spirit.

2. The Power Behind Every Miracle

Everything Jesus did—His bold preaching, His miraculous healings, His physical suffering, and His ultimate victory over sin and Satan’s power—He did by the power of the Holy Spirit. Scripture reminds us that Jesus could do nothing apart from the Spirit’s power (Luke 4:1; Luke 4:14; Luke 4:18-19; John 3:34; Acts 1:2; Acts 10:38). The Spirit equipped and worked powerfully through Him to restore our relationship with God.

3. The Same Spirit Lives in You

Jesus did not keep this power to Himself. His ultimate plan was to baptize His followers with that very same Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11). Because of His victory, you now have access to the exact same Spirit to accomplish His purposes in your daily life (Acts 1:5; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4). You do not have to walk through life in your own strength.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the example of Jesus, who showed us what a life fully surrendered to Your Spirit looks like. Forgive me for the times I try to handle life, temptation, and trial in my own weak strength. Holy Spirit, just as You alighted upon Jesus at the Jordan River, I ask that You fill me fresh today.

Equip me with Your power to overcome sin, to speak Your truth, and to serve the people around me. I choose to lay down my self-reliance and rely completely on Your strength. Let Your power work through me to accomplish Your kingdom purposes today.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  2. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  3. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  4. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  5. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  6. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  7. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  8. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  9. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  10. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1-2
  11. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  12. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  13. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  14. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  15. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID /MATTHEW 1:1
  16. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  17. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Posted on

JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 3:13

 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

The Meaning Behind the Mystery: Why Was Jesus Baptized?

When we read Matthew 3:13, we encounter a moment that feels deeply paradoxical. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, approaches John the Baptist at the Jordan River and asks to be baptized. John himself is hesitant, knowing he is the one who needs baptism from Jesus.

Why would the Savior of the world submit to a baptism of repentance?

The answer reveals the very heart of Christ’s mission on earth. Jesus did not enter the waters to wash away personal sin. Instead, His baptism served three profound purposes that set the stage for His public ministry.

1. To Fulfill All Righteousness

When John hesitates, Jesus responds in Matthew 3:15, saying it is necessary “to fulfill all righteousness.” By stepping into the Jordan, Jesus made a public declaration that He was ready to submit to and fulfill every single one of God’s requirements. Just as Leviticus outlines the washing required for priests entering ministry, Jesus marks His formal entry into His earthly mission. He came to live the perfect life under the law that we never could (Galatians 4:4-5).

2. To Identify with Sinners

Baptism in the Jordan was a public confession of sin and a desire for cleansing. Jesus had no sin, needed no repentance, and required no course correction in His life (2 Corinthians 5:21). Yet, by standing in the same muddy water as broken, hurting people, He chose to identify with us. In this act, He signaled that He did not come to distance Himself from our mess, but to carry our infirmities and bear our sins (1 Peter 2:24).

3. To Endorse God’s New Movement

John the Baptist was the voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord. He called people to turn from their own ways, repent, and prepare for God’s spiritual kingdom. By receiving John’s baptism, Jesus publicly validated this divine movement. He aligned Himself with the call for total spiritual renewal, paving the way for all who would choose to accept and follow Him (John 1:23, 32-33).

Final Thoughts

Jesus’ baptism was not about a personal need for cleansing, but about a public commitment to our rescue. It shows us a Savior who is fully obedient to the Father and deeply connected to humanity. When we look at the Jordan River, we see the beginning of the path that would ultimately lead to the cross.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We stand in awe of the humility of Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for the profound reminder in Matthew 3:13 of how deeply He chose to identify with our brokenness. We praise You that He lived the perfect life of righteousness that we could never achieve on our own.

Lord, help us to follow His example of radical obedience. Give us the courage to publicly align ourselves with Your kingdom and Your truth. May our lives reflect a continuous turning away from our own ways and a daily turning toward You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, just as the Spirit descended upon Jesus at the Jordan, so that we may live lives that are pleasing in Your sight.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  2. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  3. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  4. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  5. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  6. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  7. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  8. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  9. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1-2
  10. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  11. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  12. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  13. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  14. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID /MATTHEW 1:1
  15. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  16. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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