Finding Strength in Agreement

Opening Scripture:

“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.” – Matthew 18:19 (NKJV)

Prayer isn’t just a ritual; it’s the very breath of spiritual life. It binds us not only to God but also to one another, providing a foundation for faith, healing, and growth. Let’s explore how coming together in prayer can uplift us and deepen our faith.

The Power of Agreement in Prayer

When we pray together, agreeing on our requests to God, we create a spiritual force that strengthens our faith and reassures us that we are not alone in our battles. This unity is crucial, especially when facing personal trials or when the world seems against us.

Experiencing God’s Promises

Faith in God’s promises is like an anchor, keeping us steady during storms. Trusting in what God has said in the Bible gives us peace and perseverance. Through the prayer of agreement, we remind each other of these promises, strengthening our collective faith.

Testimonies of God’s Faithfulness

Every story of struggle, loss, and eventual blessing serves as proof of God’s loving intervention. When we share how God has worked in our lives, it not only encourages us but also builds our faith. These personal testimonies are a core part of why fellowship is vital.

Learning from Job’s Patience

The story of Job is a powerful reminder of unwavering faith amidst suffering. Job’s endurance and faith through unimaginable trials teach us that we too can hold onto God’s character, trusting Him even when the reasons behind our struggles are unclear.

Keeping the Faith in Daily Life

Balancing life, work, and family, or simply seeking to grow spiritually, the principles remain the same. Prayer, studying the Bible, and staying connected with a community help us remain motivated and spiritually nourished.

Slowing Down to Savor Scripture

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to skim through life and Scripture. But slowing down to really digest God’s Word can transform us. It’s not about checking off a daily reading but allowing the Holy Scriptures to change us, day by day.

Spiritual Warfare through Prayer

Prayer is our weapon against the plans of the enemy. By praying fervently for God’s intervention and for protection over each other, we engage in a spiritual battle, fortified by God’s power and presence.

In sum, prayer is more than just words spoken—it’s a lifeline that connects us to God and to each other. By agreeing together in prayer, trusting in God’s promises, and supporting one another through life’s highs and lows, we can experience profound spiritual growth and strength. Remember, in every need, in every struggle—pray, believe, and receive.

Closing Scripture:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6 (NKJV)

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Seek First His Kingdom

Opening Scripture

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

Embracing Challenges as Opportunities to Grow Closer to God

Life is full of challenges and battles, but these difficult times are not just obstacles; they are opportunities to deepen our faith. When we face hardships, it’s crucial to stay anchored in God’s plan, trusting that He is working through these situations to strengthen our spiritual muscles. By embracing our trials as chances to grow closer to God, we not only overcome them but also come out stronger and more aligned with His purposes.

The Power of Prayer and Trust in God

In a world that often urges us to rely on our own understanding and strength, the Bible teaches us the importance of leaning on God through prayer. Prayer is not just a ritual; it is a lifeline that connects us to the Creator, providing guidance and comfort in times of uncertainty. By prioritizing prayer and surrendering our plans to God, we learn to trust His perfect wisdom and timing, which are far superior to our own.

Acts of Service: Demonstrating God’s Love

Helping those in need is a fundamental expression of our faith. Through acts of service, empathy, and sharing the gospel, we embody the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on others’ lives, opening their hearts to the transformative power of God’s love.

The Foundation of Family: Love, Discipline, and Accountability

Prioritizing family is central to God’s plan. Raising children in a Godly manner means setting examples of love, discipline, and accountability. Through our actions and choices, we show our children how to live in accordance with God’s will, preparing them to face the world with faith and integrity.

Wholehearted Commitment to God

Serving God requires our full commitment—heart, mind, and soul. It’s not enough to be lukewarm in our faith; God calls us to be fervent in our love and service. This means making daily choices that reflect our devotion and striving continually to align our lives with His will.

Testimonies of Transformation Through God’s Salvation

Personal stories of overcoming struggles and finding salvation are powerful reminders of God’s loving intervention in our lives. These testimonies inspire others and bear witness to the life-changing power of a relationship with God. They encourage us to persevere, knowing that God is always ready to transform our lives for the better.

This journey toward God is not always easy, but it is the most rewarding path. By seeking God’s kingdom first, trusting in His plans during trials, serving those around us, leading our families with Godly principles, and committing our whole selves to Him, we not only experience personal transformation but also become beacons of hope and love in a world in need. Let us continue to support each other in faith and obedience, drawing ever closer to the heart of God.

Closing Scripture

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)

Tonight’s Worship Song

God Provides – Tamela Mann

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Stepping Into the Promise

Opening Scripture

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” – I John 5:14-15 NKJV

Trusting God’s Timing: Embracing His Will in Every Aspect of Life

In busy lives, it’s vital to remember that our timeline isn’t always aligned with God’s perfect timing. Today, let’s explore the depth of trusting in God’s provision, from our financial needs to our deepest heart’s desires.

Recognizing God’s Provision in Our Lives

God promises to listen to us when we align our desires with His will. This isn’t just about asking for things we want; it’s about shaping our wishes to reflect what He wants for us. When we do this, we’re assured that He hears us—and that He will provide.

The Power of a Prayerful Template

Utilizing personal prayers as a template for ministry work isn’t just about repeating words; it’s about reinforcing our faith. Each prayer should be a foundation for our actions in ministry, guided by God’s Word and His promises.

Family Faith: A Legacy for Generations

Faith within the family isn’t just an individual benefit; it’s a legacy passed through generations. When one family member embraces faith, it plants seeds of belief that can grow for generations, impacting family dynamics and individual lives far beyond our immediate reach.

Testimonies: Sharing God’s Glory

Every time we share how God has worked in our life, we give Him glory. Testimonies aren’t just stories; they are powerful tools that can inspire faith in others and remind us of God’s presence and power in our lives.

Living in Gratitude

Recognizing and being grateful for God’s blessings—even the unexpected ones—keeps our hearts in the right place. Gratitude transforms our perspective, helping us to see God’s hand in everything from daily provisions to miraculous transformations.

Building a Prayer Life Confident in God’s Will

Aligning our prayers with God’s will through scripture not only deepens our understanding of His word but also builds confidence in our prayer life. It assures us that we are walking alongside Him, trusting in His plans and purposes.

Kingdom-Seeking in Every Area

Whether it’s our career, family, or ministry, seeking God’s kingdom first ensures that all other aspects of our life will align with His will. This doesn’t just apply to spiritual pursuits but to every decision and action in our daily lives.

Resilience Through Trials

Life’s difficulties are inevitable, but they are also opportunities for growth in resilience, perseverance, and gratitude. Each challenge is a chance to lean more into God, trusting that He will use our struggles for good.

Heeding God’s Small Promptings

Sometimes, it’s the small promptings from God that lead to the most significant changes in our lives. Listening for His guidance in the quiet moments can dramatically shape our paths and lead us in directions we never expected.

Growing Together in Faith

Continuing to share testimonies and grow in faith together strengthens the entire community of believers. It’s not just about individual growth; it’s about building up the body of Christ, encouraging one another, and expanding our collective faith and love.

In the words of Moses to the Israelites, echoed in Deuteronomy 2:24-25, God sets the stage for His people to take possession of their blessings, promising that the very fear of them will precede their arrival. Like Israel at the brink of new territory, we stand on the cusp of the blessings God has prepared for us, encouraged to take hold of them with faith and courage.

Closing Scripture

“‘Rise, take your journey, and cross over the River Arnon. Look, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to possess it, and engage him in battle. This day I will begin to put the dread and fear of you upon the nations under the whole heaven, who shall hear the report of you, and shall tremble and be in anguish because of you.’” Deuteronomy 2:24-25 NKJV

Tonight’s Worship Song

Change Me – Tamela Mann

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Songs of Victory Over Temptation

Opening Scripture:

“Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” – Psalm 103:1-5 (NKJV)

Overcoming Temptation: Insights for Men

In the spiritual journey, understanding and overcoming temptation is crucial for growth and integrity. Men often face three specific types of temptations that can derail their spiritual progress: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These are outlined in the Scriptures and vividly demonstrated through the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness.

1. The Lust of the Flesh

The lust of the flesh often involves desires that arise from our physical bodies and appetites. Whether it’s gluttony, sexual immorality, or other physical excesses, these temptations appeal directly to our fleshly desires. In the wilderness, Jesus faced this type of temptation when Satan urged Him to turn stones into bread (Luke 4:3-4). His response? “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.'” This shows us the importance of feeding on spiritual truths rather than just fulfilling physical desires.

2. The Lust of the Eyes

This temptation is rooted in what we see and covet. The lust of the eyes can be material wealth, beauty, or any other visually appealing thing that draws us away from God’s will. When Jesus was shown all the kingdoms of the world, His steadfast focus on His mission prevented Him from succumbing to Satan’s allure (Luke 4:5-8). It reminds us to focus on eternal riches rather than earthly ones.

3. The Pride of Life

Pride involves an excessive belief in one’s own abilities or attractiveness to others and is often seen as the root of many other sins. Jesus was tempted to throw Himself from the temple and prove His divine protection, a clear appeal to pride (Luke 4:9-12). His refusal underscores the importance of humility and trust in God’s plan.

Keys to Overcome Temptations

Let the Word LIVE in You

I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one.” – 1 John 2:14 (NKJV).

The strength to overcome temptation comes from the enduring word of God living within us. It fortifies our spirit and guides us in moments of weakness.

Be in the World but Not of It

The scriptures urge us not to love the world or the things in the world, because the love of the Father is not in those who love the world (1 John 2:15). Like Jesus, we are called to engage with the world yet not be tainted by its values. Romans 12:2 reinforces this by exhorting us to not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of our minds.

Live by the Word and Store It in Your Heart

“How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.” – Psalm 119:9 (NKJV).

Storing God’s Word in our hearts is a powerful defense against temptation. It acts as both a shield and a guide, keeping us from sin and guiding our paths toward righteousness.

Through understanding these temptations and arming ourselves with scriptural truths, we can navigate the challenges of life with spiritual integrity and strength.

Closing Scripture

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” – James 1:12 (NKJV)

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Temptation and Triumph

Opening Scripture

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is as the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there the Lord commanded the blessing—Life forevermore.” – Psalms 133:1-3 (NKJV)

Unity and Blessing Among Believers

In these verses from Psalms, we’re reminded of the profound beauty and spiritual significance of unity among believers. This unity is so precious that it is compared to the sacred anointing oil used in the consecration of Aaron as a priest. Just as the oil was poured generously over Aaron’s head, symbolizing God’s blessing, unity among the faithful is a vessel of God’s continuous blessing.

Temptation and Triumph

As we consider the importance of unity, we must also be aware of the obstacles that seek to disrupt our spiritual harmony. The enemy often tries to attack the divine appointments and fellowship we share as part of God’s family. This brings us to the Gospel of Luke, where in chapter 4, we find Jesus led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

“Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, being tempted for forty days by the devil.” – Luke 4:1-2 (NKJV)

Here, Jesus faces direct challenges from the devil, questioning His identity and mission. Yet, He counters every temptation not with argument, but with Scripture, firmly stating, “It is written…” This moment teaches us a crucial lesson: the importance of knowing and holding to God’s Word in our own spiritual battles.

The Power of God’s Word

The devil’s knowledge of the Bible serves as a stark reminder that merely knowing Scripture is not enough. It is the conviction and authority with which Jesus uses Scripture that helps Him overcome temptation. This emphasizes the importance of not just reading the Bible but internalizing its truths to guide and protect us.

“This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.'” – Isaiah 48:17 (NKJV)

God promises to teach us and guide us. As believers filled with the Holy Spirit, we have the privilege to lean on this divine guidance, allowing God to direct our steps.

Conclusion: Living as God’s Royal Family

By the sacrifice of Jesus, we are reborn into a royal family, heirs to a kingdom not of this world. As children of the Most High, we are bestowed with the Spirit of sonship, through which we can call God “Abba, Father.”

In every temptation, in every trial, let us hold fast to the Word of God. Like Jesus, let us answer life’s challenges with the power of Scripture, remembering always that we are part of a divine lineage, called to live in unity and blessed to be a blessing to others.

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God’s Power in Our Weakness

Opening Scripture:

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NKJV)

Embracing Our Weakness: Finding God’s Strength in Our Lives

The Path of Humility

Understanding our need for God begins with humility. Recognizing our weaknesses and limitations is not a sign of defeat but an acknowledgment of our inherent need for God’s forgiveness and grace. It’s in this space of humility where we often find the deepest connections with God, understanding that our own strength is not enough to navigate the complexities of life.

Personal Journeys of Faith

Many have shared their stories of encountering God’s grace in the midst of trials and hardships. These personal experiences highlight the transformative power of prayer and spirituality, showing that God’s love and mercy can shine brightly in our darkest hours. Through these challenges, we learn that God’s grace is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a tailored experience, meeting each individual’s unique needs.

The Power of Divine Sufficiency

God’s grace is not just a temporary fix but a complete solution to our deepest needs and longings. It brings peace, strength, and satisfaction, filling the voids that worldly pleasures cannot. As Paul discovered, there’s profound strength in acknowledging our weakness, for it is then that we’re most open to receiving God’s power and grace, transforming our limitations into platforms for His strength and glory.

God’s Choice of the Weak

Scripture repeatedly illustrates how God favors the humble and weak, using them as vessels for His glory. This divine preference underscores the message that our significance in God’s eyes is not measured by worldly standards of strength or greatness but by our willingness to submit to His will and acknowledge our dependence on Him.

Trusting in Divine Strength

Our journey with God requires a shift in perspective: from relying on our fragile, personal strength to leaning on God’s unshakeable power. Trusting in God means understanding that our weaknesses are not obstacles but opportunities for God’s strength to manifest in our lives, guiding us through every challenge and decision.

Spiritual Warfare and Victory

When we embrace God’s grace, we become targets for spiritual opposition. The enemy perceives the empowered believer as a threat. However, this should not induce fear but reinforce our reliance on God’s strength. Our spiritual victories over such attacks further testify to the power of God’s grace and the futility of relying solely on human capabilities.

In Conclusion

In embracing our weaknesses, we open ourselves to the infinite strength and grace of God. It’s through our vulnerabilities that His power is perfected, leading us to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and divine victory. In humility, trust, and constant reliance on God, we find the strength to overcome the adversities of life, shining as beacons of His enduring grace and love.

 

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Walking Together in Spiritual Unity

Opening Scripture:

“How can two walk together unless they are agreed?” – Amos 3:3 (NKJV)

In the realm of relationships, especially within the sacred bounds of marriage, the scripture from Amos 3:3 offers profound wisdom: unity is foundational. This devotional delves into the importance of alignment and agreement, inspired by heartfelt discussions on spiritual guidance.

The Power of Shared Spiritual Goals

Central to nurturing a robust relationship is the art of communication. Discussing spiritual concerns and decisions openly paves the way to understanding and respecting each other’s unique paths and purposes. When faced with disagreements, seeking wise counsel can shed light on the importance of mutual respect. This journey teaches us that even amidst differing views, harmony can be achieved through a shared commitment to understanding and valuing each other’s spiritual journeys.

Embracing Prayer for Clarity

At the crossroads of decision-making within relationships, prayer emerges as a guiding light. Seeking clarity through prayer and scripture not only fortifies our spiritual armor but also aligns our actions with God’s will. In times of uncertainty, especially regarding decisions that affect our relationships, turning to prayer offers a path to divine guidance and understanding.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence

The cultivation of emotional intelligence is paramount in fostering open and honest communication. Understanding and empathizing with our partner’s feelings and backgrounds allows us to address issues with compassion and wisdom. Through counseling and mutual effort, couples can learn to navigate their differences and build a plan that honors both their individualities and their unity as a team.

Submission to God’s Will

True identity and purpose flourish when we submit fully to God’s will. This submission is not a sign of weakness but of strength, for it is in surrendering our plans that we find our true calling and direction. Aligning our relationships with spiritual principles ensures that both partners are moving in the same direction, with God’s will as their guiding star.

The Healing Power of Prayer

Prayer is not merely a ritual but a powerful act of faith that can bring about miraculous changes in our lives and relationships. It is through staying connected with God and engaging in regular fellowship that we witness the transformative power of prayer.

Wisdom from Scripture and Submission to God

The path to spiritual growth and relational harmony is paved with the wisdom of scripture and a deep submission to God’s plans. By embracing prayer, understanding emotional intelligence, and committing to open communication, we can navigate the complexities of relationships with grace and wisdom. Discovering our true selves in God allows us to choose partners who share our commitment to spiritual growth and mutual support.

Conclusion: Walking Together in Faith

The journey of spiritual growth and relational harmony calls for prayer, emotional understanding, and a steadfast commitment to God’s will. As we navigate the challenges and joys of relationships, let us remember that our foundation in God is what enables us to grow, heal, and thrive together. In this journey, we are reminded that through faith, communication, and a shared vision, we can overcome obstacles and build relationships that reflect God’s love and purpose.

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Tonight’s Worship Songs:
Tamela Mann – This Place
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Watchmen: Guardians of Prayer

Opening Scripture:

“I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent, And give Him no rest till He establishes And till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth.” – Isaiah 62:6-7 (NKJV)

The Spiritual Guardians: Understanding the Role of Watchmen

The biblical concept of spiritual watchmen is both profound and essential in our journey of faith. These guardians are not just watchers; they are warriors in prayer, intercessors, and stewards of God’s Word. Today, let’s dive deep into understanding their role and how we can embody these responsibilities in our lives.

Protectors and Intercessors

The primary duty of a watchman is to protect and intercede. Much like the watchmen on the walls in ancient times, spiritual watchmen are vigilant, always on guard to protect their families, communities, and nations through prayer. They stand in the gap, offering prayers of protection, intercession, and thanksgiving to God on behalf of others.

Adherence to God’s Word

A watchman’s strength and guidance come from an intimate relationship with God’s Word. Regular Bible study, meditation, and prayer are not just activities but lifelines. Through these spiritual disciplines, watchmen align their hearts with God’s, ensuring they are moving in step with His will and purposes.

The Gift of Discernment

God equips His watchmen with spiritual gifts necessary for their calling, one of which is discernment. This gift is crucial in identifying the spiritual battles at play and understanding how best to pray for others. However, it’s vital that these gifts are used humbly, always seeking to glorify God rather than self.

The Power of Prayer

Perhaps the most powerful tool in a watchman’s arsenal is prayer. It’s through prayer that strongholds are broken, hearts are transformed, and lives are brought to faith in Christ. The testimonies shared of families coming to faith highlight the incredible work God does through the united, faithful prayers of His people.

Community and Accountability

Being a watchman is no easy task, but it’s not a journey meant to be walked alone. Through fellowship with other believers, watchmen find strength, encouragement, and accountability. Together, they share in the spiritual blessings and growth that come from standing in the gap for others.

Conclusion

The call to be a watchman is a high calling, one marked by vigilance, prayer, and a deep commitment to God’s Word. It’s a role that comes with challenges but also immeasurable rewards. As we endeavor to take up this mantle, let us do so with humility, faith, and a steadfast reliance on God’s grace and power. For in our watching and praying, we participate in God’s sovereign work on earth, witnessing His kingdom come, His will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

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Spiritual Growth and Service

Opening Scripture

“Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” – 1 Peter 2:1-2 NKJV

Tonight’s Message

In our journey of faith, it’s essential to focus on growing closer to God, mirroring Jesus’ life as described in Luke 2:52,

“And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” – Luke 2:52 NKJV

This growth involves a conscious effort to lay aside the weights of sin and earnestly seek spiritual maturity through God’s Word, prayer, and humble service to others.

Shedding the Weights That Hold Us Back

Spiritual growth starts with identifying and removing the hindrances that slow us down. Sinful habits like malice, deceit, and envy act as heavy burdens that prevent us from running our race with ease. By seeking the pure milk of the Word, we find the nourishment needed to shed these weights and grow stronger in our faith.

Walking as Jesus Did

Jesus’ life provides the perfect blueprint for growing in wisdom and favor. He dedicated Himself to serving others, teaching humility, and showing us the importance of prayer. By following His example, we learn to look beyond our desires, focusing on the needs of those around us and serving them with a pure heart.

Investing in Relationships Through Prayer

Our relationships, especially in marriage, thrive when we place God at the center. Praying for our future spouses or current partners, and seeking God’s wisdom in our interactions, paves the way for relationships rooted in mutual respect and love. By renewing our minds with biblical truths, we foster connections that reflect God’s love and grace.

Serving Others: The Key to Growth

Humility and Service

Jesus taught us the profound lesson of humility and service when He washed the disciples’ feet. This act reminds us that greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by our willingness to serve. Growing in favor with God and men involves lowering ourselves to lift others, addressing their needs with empathy and love.

Building Dependable Relationships

Being dependable and supportive in our relationships directs us towards a life of service. By prioritizing others’ well-being and guiding them with their best interests at heart, we not only grow in favor with people but also reflect Jesus’ love and compassion in our daily lives.

Conclusion: The Journey of Growth

Spiritual growth is a journey marked by continuous learning, serving, and evolving in our relationship with God and those around us. By laying aside sin, immersing ourselves in God’s Word, and embodying Jesus’ humility and service, we embark on a path that leads to wisdom, stature, and favor with both God and man. Let’s commit to this journey, one step at a time, knowing that each act of service and prayer brings us closer to the heart of God.

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