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Richard Ritenbaugh, reflecting on that computer game "The Sims," a game which simulates the pressures and opportunities of real life, actually puts the player in God"s shoes, preparing and directing a simulated human being through life. The game reinforces the principle of not remaining stagnant, but continuing in productivity and growth. As we are able to program the "Sim" for self-improvement, we must also invest in our own self-improvement, continually striving against stagnation and deterioration, and the powerful pulls of the world. Paradoxically, we are sent into the world while simultaneously we are admonished to come out of the world. In addition, we are instructed to become a light to the world. Some have erroneously tried to flee to a monastic or commune-like existence in the wilderness, only to find that they have taken their sins with them into their "place of safety." Wherever God has placed us (urban, small town, or rural), we must invest energy in our self-improvement, making us a valuable asset in our community, building houses and gardens, marrying and having children, and praying for the peace of our community. Since 31 AD, Christians have expectantly looked for Christ's second coming, some carelessly withdrawing from their familial and community responsibilities, carelessly walking disorderly in the process. Members of God's Church should be gainfully employed, not mooching off the charity of the brethren or the community. Young people, in the manner of Daniel and Esther, should prepare themselves for success, incorporating traits of diligence, tenacity, patience, wisdom, and discretion, doing it for the glory of God. God desires that His people (in the pattern of Abraham) should live righteously, and that they succeed in all areas of their lives.

Abedneggo Ambition Babylon Bad figs, good figs Beacon on a hill Belial Chess Civic responsibility Commune Computer games David Daniel Day of the Lord Economic Responsibility Elijah Enemies Esther Excellence Exile Familial responsibility Fruit Growth Hiding "How to Survive Exile" Increase Israel Jeremiah's letter Job Learning Light to the world Loving the world Monasticism Overcoming Personal responsibility Possessing own vessel Self improvement Sims Stagnation Walking disorderly "What to Do in Babylon" Wilderness

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