Today’s Thought “Apocalypse Now?” G. Ward

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” Matthew 28:18

 

Sixteen states bombarded with potential blizzard conditions before Christmas. Potential tax hikes for every American (i.e. fiscal cliff). Newtown, Connecticut plagued with massive killing. Atlanta Falcons potential Superbowl contenders… Could December 21, 2012 be the end?

Although Jesus’ authoritatively proclaiming Himself as Author is throughout His word (cf. Mt.28:18, 24:36), mankind seemingly prefers a Mayan Calendar’s synopsis. Rather than formulate cynical castigation of the problem in periodic predictions of the end, I’d much rather re-introduce believer’s compelling to share the good news of the kingdom. This apocalyptic fear among unbelievers is two-fold; 1. Fear as to fright. 2. Fear as synonymous with reverence.

I say scare the literal hell out of them (yes, this hyperbole is necessary) by demanding their acceptance or denial of such a Wonderful Savior. The Prophet Joel prophesied Israel's restoration (cf. Joel 2:28-29). There would be an indeterminate period when God will pour out his Spirit on all flesh, when no distinctions will be made between classes or ranks of people, when even servants, menservants, and maidservants shall speak as the voice of God. They shall speak the word of God, as God pours out his Spirit upon all kinds of men everywhere. This pouring out is the very empowerment necessary to be very excellent witnesses (Ac.1:8) of Calvary’s expression of love for the entirety of mankind (Jn.3:16).

Take total advantage of this time of heresy to proclaim “Truth (Jn.14:6),” as HE is the Person of Jesus! Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Out of Bounds” G. Ward

 

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:2

 

The older I become from a spiritual realm, the more I assess my being effectual and productive. The regenerative transformation granted me (i.e. grace and mercy) calls for an immediate servitude. I had (in the span of my life) an equal amount of years as an unbeliever vs. believer, so my empathizing with the perplexity demonstrated by the un-churched concerning the inactivity (hypocrisy) of the churched is vivid. In difficult times, there appears to be no disparity between the believers or unbelievers. The gossip and intolerance, generally reigns supreme from those never missing church. Moreover, the churched have as much or more un-reconciled behaviors from their family members (e.g. – the preacher’s kid), because their self-absorption forgot, “No one is righteous, not one” (Ro.3:10)! Furthermore, if believers stump their toe, expletives excrete naturally so from both factions.

Then, there’s that church setting; no one is spirited when the theologian renders an opening statement of encouragement (e.g. “The Lord is good, and His mercy endures forever!”), oh but when the music starts, activity reigns like the old episodes of Tarzan, watching him unilaterally whipping 200 + African bushmen. What about their hearing? Whenever they view a religious telecast, the sermons always affirm my coming out of a circumstance I caused and expecting Holy God’s immediate rescue; therefore reducing His Holiness to a mere genie in a bottle, while cheapening grace. Rarely, if at all, do you hear about sin’s consequence of death and deprivation, but you’re most certainly sure to hear agricultural terminology exacerbated in a modernity whereby less than 1% of their listening audience are farmers vs. 90% + in bible times; thus their terminology, “sowing and reaping a harvest” (go to internet resources and view the wealth of every preacher you listen to and ask, How much is enough?). Why then are we perplexed on the many that don’t/won’t attend church?
From the empathy I have for the unbeliever’s defiance, I believe they just want Big Momma’s religion; desiring to see salvation vs. being bombarded with more religiosity… Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Breakthrough” G.Ward

“Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.” James 1:9-10

The local church’s composition is an excellent barometer in substantiating Holy God’s love for mankind (cf. Jn.3:16). Rarely, particularly in our grasp, is an ideology (i.e. the gospel) unattainable for man via money or tremendous work. The message of the cross is such a message that transcends economic or social plights pursued. Holy God certainly must not take issue with the wealthy; He most certainly established many in times past with great riches. We however, can neglect seeing His great care for the impoverished in the same (cf. 2 Ki.4:1-7), due to our insatiable desire to have more stuff.

I don’t write today to promote an unnecessary debate that could demand fiscal accountability for the rich or poor, but to implore fellow believers to indiscriminately seek the lost in a season that promotes receptivity for every man. We’ve viewed (biblically) many illustrations of rich and poor identifying God’s grace beyond tangibles. It’s time to remove the obstructions that keep us sharing Christ in our limited circles of culture, race or socio-economic background. One thing is for sure; everyone needs the LORD!

Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Internal Conflict” G. Ward

Then Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." And they were amazed at him.” Mark 12:17

People movin' out People movin' in
Why, because of the color of their skin
Run, run, run, but you sho' can't hide
An eye for an eye
A tooth for a tooth
Vote for me, and I'll set you free
Rap on brother, rap on
Well, the only person talkin'
'Bout love thy brother is the preacher
And it seems,
Nobody is interested in learnin'
But the teacher
Segregation, determination, demonstration,
Integration, aggravation,
Humiliation, obligation to our nation
Ball of Confusion
That's what the world is today

The sale of pills are at an all time high
Young folks walk around with
Their heads in the sky
Cities aflame in the summer time
And, the beat goes on

Air pollution, revolution, gun control,
Sound of soul
Shootin' rockets to the moon
Kids growin' up too soon
Politicians say more taxes will
Solve everything
And the band played on
So round 'n' round 'n' round we go
Where the world's headed, nobody knows
Just a Ball of Confusion
Oh yea, that's what the wold is today

Fear in the air, tension everywhere
Unemployment rising fast,
The Beatles' new record's a gas
And the only safe place to live is
On an indian reservation
And the band played on
Eve of destruction, tax deduction
City inspectors, bill collectors
Mod clothes in demand,
Population out of hand
Suicide, too many bills, hippies movin'
To the hills
People all over the world, are shoutin'
End the war
And the band played on.

The gyrating that took place on the dance floor in 1970 (from Motown’s (my hometown) Temptations most outstanding lyrical expression of a chaotic era in America), had my siblings and me participating greatly. The rhythmic drum and bass line demanded immediate motion from those good at dancing. I’ll need for you to know, this excluded my brother. He mainly acted as the disc jockey. Later in life he perfected moves esoteric to his little world.

Furthermore, these lyrics promoted a cadence indicative of the title of the song; “Ball of Confusion.” Sadly, inasmuch as this genre in music was relative to social change (or the violation thereof), forty plus years later, its relevance exists. We’ve neglected to excel due to our reliance on a system (perhaps governmental, religious or social), to effectuate needed change. Jesus, our Lord was strongly opposed to all three. Contrary to popular belief, HE was never an Agent for social change, nor did He have problems with government (cf. Ro.13:1), but didn’t regard as synonymous with eternal matters and He most certainly abhorred religion. We’ll progress only when deciding that Holy God is Sufficient for every era, by surrendering to His perfect will over our very own (Lk.22:42). Until then, And the band played on.  Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Ungrateful” G. Ward

“But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.  For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy.” 2 Timothy 3:1-2

Unlike the many stories of the aged, I’m without an expression of having grown up poor. Moreover, I don’t have a story to share with young people that would relay how walking 5 miles one way to school in the snow was the norm (it sounds particularly foolish if you grew up in south Florida). I do however desire empathizing with children and young people regarding their expressions of appreciation for the gifts soon to be presented at Christmas.

Growing up, my Mother found it necessary to expend astronomical amounts of money to satisfy my siblings and me. Most everything requested, we received. Sales papers in those days were included in every daily newspaper (not just with the weekend paper), so our lists would grow rapidly. There however, was always something we neglected. Year after year I would always forget asking for Mattel’s Rock 'em Sock 'em Robots; so I purchased this for myself some five years ago. All the anticipation in having this quickly diminished upon opening the packaging. I immediately equated that with how a child appreciates the many gifts presented at Christmas time. Think back, at 10 years old, did you really appreciate the sweater Grandmother purchased? Of course not!

Amazingly, we have our children recite their thanks to whoever the presenter might be. Although with the appearances of disingenuous, it greatly promotes a potential reconciliation with true thankfulness in latter times for the child. This traditional act in reciting thanks is becoming a thing of the past. New generations of parenting allow for their little ones to absolutely stand lethargically un-enthralled while adults speak to them to get no response back; while foolishly contending with the defense mechanisms offered by parents, perverting the shyness of their children as acceptable. We were all shy in times past, but we still had to verbalize thanks! Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Inconceivable” G. Ward

 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?” Luke 23:40

In the faith, our greatest illustration of redemption stems from the recognition given to the Savior (as HE hung on the cross) by a common thief. Like the thief, our blatant refusal in adhering to righteousness may deliver us unto dire straits (Ro.6:23). There however remains a recompense for man, transcendent of our violation. His inability to pursue it with a righteous behavior is impossible (Eph.2:8). Individuals, once lost, then reconciled are called to escort others to the mercy seat where Holy God is (“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Ro.10:14).

Why then do we continue expressions of cover-up that leave outsiders of faith to be devoured? It’s entirely up to you to cease inviting them to your church, with all its special programming. Assume Sunday won’t get here and take them straight to Jesus. Allow them to see the relationship you have with the greatest KING. Close your eyes and insist they do the same. Greet our Blessed Savior, and then introduce your potential brother/sister, sharing with the Master their desire to be saved. Have them recognize their sin condition by seeking an immediate restoration. Upon His merciful guarantee that salvation is theirs, take over the session once again by praising His delivering the both of you unto Himself. Truly our Sufficient King is merciful and ultimately we know Him in part (1 Co.13:9), but His words share insights about the activity of a believer (cf. Lk.6:43, Jn.15:5, Gal.5:19-21). Walk with your new brother/sister until they become more foundational and able to stand with Jesus alone. Don’t place time constraints on that new relationship. How long did it take for the baby you birthed to walk/talk? Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought I Can’t Wait Till Christmas G.Ward

“A time to give birth and a time to die;
A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.” Ecclesiastes 3:2

 

On yesterday, I attended a most excellent homegoing service for an old friend that quickly diminished any portrayal of great sadness because of the trust he had in the Savior. The eulogist magnificently exposed Psalm 116:15, “Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints.”

We’ve heard it perhaps many times; as life is given, there’s a surety in death. Funerals have exacerbated a notion of utter despair. While sad music blasts over the sound system in our auditoriums, family members march in to see the remains of a loved one. The tears naturally flow from their sockets, agonizing life’s journey without a relative or friend. Rarely, (if at all) do we hear terrible testifying about the deceased. Moreover, many un-seasoned theologians preach universalist messages that demand everyone goes to a better place, making eternal separation from Holy God allegory vs. actual. No one really desires embellishing the uncertainty of a potential soul’s connectivity to God while they were living, theirs is merely hopeful, making their expression a common approach.

Getting back to this service on yesterday; the many commentaries given echoed a better altruism. The deceased was passionate about souls (indiscriminately so). His approach was synonymous with Jesus’ (cf. Mt.9:36). It was said and witnessed personally, that he would begin first by praying for the lost and then indifferent from most that testify, “I know Him,” his proactivity insisted they verbalize rejection or acceptance of the Savior’s love. Wanting to hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Mt.25:21), means that we first must become busy with the cause of Christ (Mt.28:18-20). Ours has mostly been anticipating worship’s opportunity for the great and mighty things He has done for us (i.e. “I can’t wait till Sunday!”). Why don’t you do something for HIM? Happy Wednesday!

Today's Thought
"He's Just Not That Into You" G. Ward

"For by the grace given me, I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Romans 12:3



In 2009 the world was exposed to a romantic comedy film expressive of "He's Just Not That Into You." This film grossed in excess of $180 million. It's success more than likely stemmed from relating primarily to the complexities offered in discerning the lack of reciprocity in romantic relationships (i.e. Why is it that he doesn't bring me flowers anymore?).
This dramatic interpretation is transcendent of romantic fellowship; the opportunity to view this kaleidoscopically should become everyone's cross to bear. Rather than becoming super analytical as to indifference, ours should be a near future denial (cf. Mt.16:24) of carnality raising its ugly head in determining that any endeavor (particularly those not administered by Sufficiency = Jn.15:5) would have success without proper leadership. Why on earth call Him Lord, if we're not willing to let Him reign supreme?
One thing believers should seek; a blessed assurance that confirms, although man may not be enthralled about who you are, the Savior never left and is Faithful! Happy Tuesday!


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Today’s Thought “Imposing Philosophies” G.Ward

“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” Romans 14:5

In America we celebrate the many television commercials that accompany our favorite programs. Many would love to think of themselves as impervious to purchasing the item(s) represented. Moreover, they boast on never succumbing to the monotony of the holiday season by limiting their spending to a certain amount. That implies that the commercial’s intent was to solely exploit the commercialization of its product only for the month of December vs., attacking one’s subliminal conscious for every season represented. Let’s offer a brief test. When or if considering the purchase of fine jewelry, who might you consider? Yes, Kay, Zales or Jared, here you come! It’s because they’re the preponderant messenger for jewels. Now some of you are so entirely rebellious that you’ll name some mom or pop operation just to prove me wrong; but all I have to do is follow you home to see a plethora of cleaning products to view adherence to this kind of messaging.

More important to enact, is a responsibility towards impacting others (in this month) whereby most are particularly vulnerable to the expression “tis the season to be jolly…” We can do this best by purposely engaging them on how they plan on keeping the Christ (preeminent) in every portrayal of gathering and gift exchange. Furthermore, our prefacing this potential dialogue must first introduce our course of action, by admittance to prior failure in doing what’s best. Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “I’ll Go!” G. Ward

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8

Without hesitance believers are prepared to suggest that “glory and honor belong to God.” Like Isaiah, although counting it a privilege to serve, there certainly might be greater reluctance if we knew that many wouldn’t heed the words delivered (Isa.6:9-11).
Our calling to fulfill shouldn’t count the cost of obedience, nor should it estimate a benefit. Recollection of the tender mercies received (from Holy God) should resonate with every believer enough that an immediate need to reciprocate takes place. Many patriarchs of the faith surrendered to service without knowing the outcome would be precarious; ³² And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets,
³³ who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, ³⁴ quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. ³⁵ Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection. ³⁶ Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. ³⁷ They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— ³⁸ the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground.³⁹ These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, ⁴⁰ since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect (Hebrews 11:32-40).
Will you still go? Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought O Holy Night G. Ward

“And to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.”

1 Thessalonians 1:10

This season fails miserably in the portrayal of Christmas. Our Americanism insists on the expression, “Merry Christmas” vs. “Happy Holidays” as a substitution for the promulgation of who Jesus is. Furthermore, we’re terribly embittered at what society permits, particularly as the obliteration of what was regarded as common (expressions) diminishes. Our castigations pompously suggest we had nothing to do with the political hyperbole unbelievers raise, when in actuality it’s very much our fault. Our message of reconciliation (i.e. the gospel), is by far the best. So why are we failing to deliver it? It’s probably due to our common expression; lazy and un-thoughtful, while insatiably singing, “I Know My Redeemer Lives…” Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought Familiarity as Contemptuous G. Ward

When the Lord first spoke through Hosea, the Lord said to Hosea, “Go, take to yourself a wife of harlotry and have children of harlotry; for the land commits flagrant harlotry, forsaking the Lord.”

Hosea 1:2

The estimation from man unto knowing Holy God mostly derives from mortal relationships established. We understand the way to trust is that developmental process regarded through quantitative measurements. As we embrace God’s word however, we’re reminded of a principle neglected by everyone, faith. Our estimations and regarding process is entirely antithetical to; “For we walk by faith, not by sight”

(2 Co.5:7) and “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Heb.11:1).

Holy God’s word is filled with the miraculous and desires our pursuit of Him be without worldly parameters. Our unnecessary ploys of counting costs or outcome epitomize mistrust. Furthermore, our contemplations that place demands on Holy God for safety (as we endeavor His will), discounts the peril Paul, Peter, John the Baptist, Our Savior, etc., as they sought ministry.

Our saying yes to His will may not have the packaging we’ve been privy to; as Hosea’s compelling reveals. If you desire Holy God receiving the glory, just do it! Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought Assembling Scoundrels G. Ward

 Elisha said, “As the Lord of hosts lives, before whom I stand, were it not that I regard the presence of Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, I would not look at you nor see you.”

2 Kings 3:14

The Prophet Elisha directed this observation to Israel’s king (Jehoram) as a result of his last resort consultation with Holy God to war against Moab. Israel’s king sought impetuously to defeat Moab and their king due to him disregarding a debt owed to his deceased father King Ahab. Moreover, he (King Jehoram) without contemplation thought of himself too highly due to the war alliance established with Judah’s King Jehoshaphat and the King of Edom.

I’ve viewed many throughout my lifetime celebrating camaraderie with those who appear as principled pillars (particularly in the spiritual community), when in actuality they’re suffering as spine-less jellyfish when crisis arrives. Considering the warfare of life as perpetual (cf. Ro.7:15), demands that Holy God be our very first consultation and insists my implicit trust of HIM even when others fail to show. HE’s Faithful. Happy Monday!