Today’s Thought “To Be or Not to Be…” G. Ward

1 Samuel 2:3

“Talk no more so very proudly,
let not arrogance come from your mouth;
for the LORD is a God of knowledge,
and by him actions are weighed.”

I’m finding that more are oblivious to the constraints character and personality may offer others. Most will seek greater acquaintance with us based on what we can offer them. Some may feel that when others abide in their presence for any extended period of time that they’re a friend indeed; until there’s a need anticipated from them we cannot meet. Children and adolescents have perpetuated this notion for centuries. Ideally, the practice of receiving strangers for children could be/have been the very catalyst for peace globally; but as we grow it appears we become unnecessarily competitive. This can ultimately lead to divisiveness and mistrust.

This geriatrical process many of us are exposed presents more awareness of where others might be driven. I celebrate it because of it being forced upon me. The physical parameters given me, most certainly disables my competiveness in a variety of areas. Therefore, my soul aspires continuity with man more than argument. In summation, the infamous R & B singing trio, The Ojay’s recorded a most excellent melody that said, “Your Body’s Here with Me, But Your Mind Is on the Other Side of Town.” I’d like to transpose that by saying, “my mind is here, but my body ran away!”

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Inauspicious” G. Ward

 

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3

Twelve Years A Slave is a movie portrayal (November 2013) of a free Black man residing in Saratoga, New York. He was an accomplished violinist who was invited to perform in Washington D.C. The year was 1841. He was kidnapped and taken to the south and enslaved. He spent 12 years as a slave being tormented (whipped and beaten) each day by a brutal slave trader.

Expressly, many are bombarded with legitimate circumstances of despair. No matter how exasperating conditions appear in some, there are often individuals feeling it necessary to offer quick non-antidotal commentaries that exact, “There are always others in far worse shape.” Such a response surely demands brief contemplation from the victim of despair, but is rarely soothing and most certainly lacks resolve. Furthermore it reveals lazy, aloof posturing from the promulgator.

There is however a better advocacy. A hug of assurance may help. Moreover, an empathy that ensures these victims that as the Holy Father is a present help (Ps. 46:1), that you too will stand with them through the crisis. “For He Himself has said I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you” (Heb.13:5b).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Loving This Autumn” G. Ward

“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39

A good support system is necessary in encouraging good behaviors. I can truly say I had that as a child. On today I’m gladly contemplating both of my grandmothers. Both epitomized what grandmothers have been historically for so many. Unlike the grandmother of today (who very well might be 35 years of age), it wasn’t necessary to refer to them by their first name; Nanna, Grandma or Big Momma was good enough. I never heard negative comments from either of my grandmothers. Their hug and kisses were anticipated and reciprocated by me. For them, I could have attained towards absolutely anything I aspired.

Eternal security for the believer is comparable. Our scripture lesson text reminds us that nothing can prohibit Holy God from loving us. His love, although un-conditional, requires true repentance from those of us desiring Him as Lord of our lives. Chaos persists in some because they stole grandma’s love, failing to love her back with all their heart. We never love grandma in the same way she loves us. Hers is patient, seeing the best, its kind, seeking to be exemplary, and gentle, not wanting us to capsize in unproductivity.

Our struggle with sin is incessant (cf. Ro.7:14-16). We however, who have asked Jesus to abide as Lord in our life, have yielded to His sacrifice as entirely sufficient. Although there is yet sin in our lives as it is with others, ours is absolved forever because HE is our reconciliation now and forevermore. The older I become in HIM, the less I desire to disappoint. Moreover, I wish both my grandmothers could witness what I’ve become…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Evasiveness” G. Ward

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The teachers of religious law and the Pharisees are the official interpreters of the law of Moses. So practice and obey whatever they tell you, but don’t follow their example. For they don’t practice what they teach. They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden.” Matthew 23:1-4

We’re quickly approaching holiday mania; when Americans (primarily) will spend astronomical amounts of money on regalia of all kinds seeking to gather those they love. Like many of you I believe the plans obscure the meaning. The essence of family and friends gathering however is yet comforting. The peace it promotes is strongly anticipated for those exposed to the swiftness that life may present. At the same time I’m wondering if we’re prepared for the contentiousness that will raise its ugly head among those same family and friends who are bombarded with evil politics and controversial religious practices of today? Although interesting, both are argumentative; and when differences occur (and they will), debate unleashes un-reconciliation and dubious confrontation.

As believers we must recognize that the Savior endeavored these types of gatherings never to avoid varied subject matter, but was prepared to render the best verdict from what Final Authority said. Before all the gatherings, cram for the test (cf. 2 Ti. 2:15, 1 Pe.3:15), so as to be prepared in the same…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “An Inventory on Assurance” G. Ward

“By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:3-4

 

Who really goes to hell in the entirety of our society? Preachers aren’t proclaiming truth anymore; they’ve become motivational speakers. Moreover, it’s become impossible to find anyone living out the creed of holiness. Furthermore, church folks are the worse anyhow, so I’ll just believe on my own terms!

We’ve heard it all before and regardless of whether or not they all are warranted, the complaint always rests with the plaintiff’s choice on who to follow. The Apostle Paul instructed those believers in 1 Corinthians 11:1 to, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” This incessant admonishing of Christ as exemplary subjugates there being no sufficiency in another (Jn. 14:6). Ultimately, every response to a blessed assurance must “walk in the same manner as He (Jesus) walked” (1 Jn.2:6b); otherwise, any defense mechanisms furthered from man leads to eternal separation from Holy God…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “A Tedious Journey” G. Ward

 

Do not say, “Why is it that the former days were better than these?”
For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.” Ecclesiastes 7:10

 

Growing up watching my mother made me the impatient man I’ve become. Although she wasn’t in a hurry preparing a meal and dressing for work, she did both with excellence. Today I’m recalling the great Martha Jean the Queen of gospel radio. Martha Jean was iconic for Detroiters. She was upbeat and thorough and ended most expressions made with “I bet cha!” Hers mostly sought confirming the message of Christ as absolute. My mother along with most Detroiters listened daily to her radio show. The spirituals played by her were unquestionably exacting nothing being too difficult for Holy God to do. Moreover, they incited many towards great praise of Him not for what HE would do for them, but for HIS greatness and faithfulness. Most songs (spiritual, that is) now carry forth with demands unto Holy God. The very prefacing perhaps will echo a sentiment of how wonderful HE has been, so now “do it for me.” Our training up in this narcissistic approach can/will lead us into greater contempt.

My mother didn’t fall into a category of great familiarity with God that bred contempt. While she was getting dressed I would hear her singing songs like “God Specializes” and “Amazing Grace.” Everyone now approaches the great throne of mercy singing, “God Has A Blessing With Your Name On It.” Arbitrarily and presumptively, many conclude that they belong to God, but lack the passionate pursuit (cf. Jn.4:24, 1 Jn. 2:3-6). What will you propagate (as to legacy building) while meal planning?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “The Real Meaning of Ministry” G. Ward

 

“The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

 

Autumn and winter helps those of us in the community of faith to regard our fellow man that perhaps lies in economic depression. The chill in the night air and hunger can obscure better planning from victims of homelessness. Moreover, those with shelter on the brink of high energy costs and potential purchasing of winter garments for children (particularly after more than 6 months of Caribbean temperatures) become extreme.

Many plagued with less are forced to seek benevolent organizations for assistance and the local church is generally most visited. Os Guinness (an author and social critic) issued a warning to mankind regarding secularism (a philosophy) that can lead to secularization (a process). It speaks primarily to our consideration to what may be popular vs. the engagement of our moral compasses. Furthermore, it demands personal introspection that asks, “How am I viewed in the marketplace” and “As an ambassador for Christ, what then is the predominant message I’m promulgating?” He observes, “How else can one explain the comment of a Japanese businessman to a visiting Australian?  “Whenever I meet a Buddhist leader, I meet a holy man. Whenever I meet a Christian leader, I meet a manager.”

His referral to any believer as a manager points to our unavailability to what we’re representatives of, the gospel. Receiving the good news must be prefaced by repentance. While sharing the King’s supply (i.e. food, blankets, toiletries, etc.) compel those receiving to surrender to His Lordship. Then, personally walk with them (cf. Mt. 28:19-20); ensuring discipleship (until they’re able to disciple others). Otherwise, it’s just a temporary hand-out.

Happy Thursday!

Today's Thought "Testosterone Exacerbated" G. Ward

"Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6


On today I heard some very disturbing news on cyber bullying. There was a 12 year old girl that committed suicide after having discrepancies over a supposed boyfriend issue with 2 other girls over a year's span.
Flatter me as I share a true story. There was a fellow who growing up alongside of my brother and I who was a tough kid. He was taller than everyone and had girth to match. In every feat of strength he went unchallenged, until he encountered Mr. Benny. Mr. Benny was a parent liaison at our school. He worked in the auto industry but devoted countless hours of volunteerism at our school. We all had great respect for him in that his approach to us was kind, while authoritative. One day Mr. Benny told our tough friend what he wasn't going to do. Our friend shared how he was going to share this with his dad and Mr. Benny should beware. It was approximately two days later when our tough friend's dad arrived on school property while the gymnasium was full of spectators. Our friend's dad asked a couple of questions unto his tough son to then propose a question unto Mr. Benny. The next scene was entirely heinous for kids to view. Without contest, our friend's father assaulted Mr. Benny until hospitalization was the only resort. All that knew Mr. Benny had tears in their eyes in witnessing this.
Question, why did our friend's dad enroll his maniac son in boxing thereafter? Our friend eventually became a professional boxer to have his career halted via numerous felonies whereby he became subject to the penal system (imagine that). Although it's believed that he was innocent to some charges (as CBS - 60 Minutes reported). There perhaps was some guilt also. Our friend was released from prison shortly after his case made national headlines. My brother and he rekindled their friendship post adulthood. Our friend just recently passed away. Fortunately, prior to his dying he became renowned for his youth advocacy with his experience as a boxer.
Are you advocating your child in their being physically and verbally tough vs. their reliance on the peace Christ offers (providing them with truer advocacy)?
"By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue breaks the bone" (Pr. 25:15).

Happy Wednesday!

 

Today’s Thought “Practically Faithless” G. Ward

“So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12

It’s said that “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” This kind of philosophical suggesting will/can often encourage mankind in seizing moments better (cf. Lk.9:62). We as believers must review this type of encouragement as a facsimile of Holy God’s words; particularly when they lend themselves to optimism.

My challenge on today invites every hearer to more than adjudicate common expressions by spiritually cooperating with first precepts already given man (cf. 2 Ti.3:16-17). In one of the great hymns of the faith, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” we’re reminded “There is no shadow of turning with Thee.” Absolutely no deceit can be found in Him (cf. Jas.1:17).

I proposed to a friend a hypothetical scenario worth contemplating on last weekend. I asked her, “What would you do differently in knowing that Christ is to return for the church in the next hour?” As a believer she replied, “I would begin by praising Him.” Many of us could and would answer in a variety of ways. The response given by any of us proves how faithless we are (cf. Ro.3:23). I say that because we really don’t know if HE is to return in the next hour and we’ve done nothing…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “What I Want to be When I Grow Up…” G. Ward

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20

In Christ, according to the passage above, does anyone feel it appropriate to offer a poor defense that maintains, “Although a Christian, I’m yet a man, not perfect.” I believe that’s comparable to another demanding some regard from a system or someone with, “I’m a grown man!” Well, let me see now; you’re 6’4 and 220 lbs. Quack like a duck, must be a duck. A proclamation is diminished when the activity in its portrayal is divergent.

As a parent demanded from their own progeny that they represent those values of home when in the presence of others, so becomes our responsibility when we surrender to our Heavenly Father (cf. Ro.12:1-2, Eph.5:1-2). Defense mechanisms like “I’m a work in progress,” aren’t tolerable. Moreover, saying you’re not perfect is entirely pragmatic for the hearer, so stop! Working towards greater character in Christ is the very pursuit guaranteeing peace and joy (real prosperity). That perspective lends itself to being rich in grace to which I’m thankful.

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Irreconcilable Differences?” G. Ward

“Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.” Exodus 33:11

As a pastor I’m often faced with constituents expressive of friends and family disgruntled with them to a point of irreconcilable. I really never understood irreconcilable as involving those who once cared greatly for another (cf. Ro.5:8). Final Authority recorded an excellent guideline for those of us needing greater counsel; “What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? ² You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. ³ You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures” (Jas. 4:1-3).

Society promotes healthy arguments while Holy God says the essence of our disagreements exhibits selfish motives. Moreover,  Psalm 90:12 compels us, “Teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” Why wait for another funeral and the sorrow therein to determine a better plight towards righteous behavior. Determine that now is the acceptable time. Can’t you see it now? It’s the next funeral you’ll attend and you’re at the coffin arguing with the deceased. “Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”  

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Commercialism: Appealing to the Insatiability in Man” G. Ward

“ Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother named him Jabez saying, “Because I bore him with pain.” Now Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that You would bless me indeed and enlarge my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from harm that it may not pain me!” And God granted him what he requested.” 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

 

How many of you are Wal-Mart fans along with me? It appeals to the modern consumer in that most are hurried and desire retrieving all they’ll need while in the marketplace vs. visiting numerous stores. There’s a store within 3 miles of our home and I enjoy my knowledge of where most everything is. On last weekend I was astonished to find Christmas décor throughout the lawn and garden section. More than 25 trees were on display begging me to purchase one. We haven’t decorated our home since our boys were younger (table top décor at best), but this year we have two grandsons to consider.

 I commented to a friend while viewing large snowmen and reindeer that would occupy a front yard, “Deborah (my wife) better not purchase anything like those. First of all they’re too expensive and lastly they consume more electricity than I want to pay!” Translation – I need to communicate to her that I’m well aware of the early existence of the décor and desire to be with her when she purchases too much.

The story of Jabez is analogous to our being captivated by an enlarged border that commercialism may present. Moreover, our being residents of such a wealthy land potentially addresses “blessings” as emanating from on High, when in actuality we felt we needed it, so we bought it. Our prefacing for being blessed by Holy God must be synonymous with Jabez’s to have lasting power. His desire was a perfect ambassadorship unto God, not more stuff…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Nearly Prophetic” G. Ward

 

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18

 

Growing up with my siblings most certainly prepared me for my current life. Like some of you, when we were kids we utilized the absolute worst about you to present constant consternation your way.

I was somewhat of a chubby kid in my youth. In our era rarely did you see a fat kid because everyone longed for outdoors anticipating games that unknowingly burned calories. Moreover, foods were most certainly not fast and vegetables or beans very common.

Early in what was my time of overweight, my mother sought clothing for each of us at J.L. Hudson’s (Northland Mall, Detroit, MI.). My sisters were attended first, leaving my brother and I last. In those days the same clerks were employed for many years in the same department. There was a little Jewish lady who seemed to have an English accent in the boys department. She wore her glasses on the very end of her nose. She always had a measuring tape draped around her neck to ensure each customer‘s proper sizing. My brother was an easy fit, but I had problems. My mother asked for a measurement for me. Our friendly clerk obliged, measuring my waist to reply (remember the English accent and the glasses), “Oh, he’s a husky!” Those words were as huge as Neil Armstrong’s landing on the moon in 1969 ("That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.").  My siblings taunted me for years with that echoing. My brother however had Rich Little (born November 26, 1938 a Canadian-American impressionist and voice actor, nicknamed "The Man of a Thousand Voices") beat on mimicking every voice heard. Many times it brought me to tears (sadly, I still weep sometimes, this time however with great laughter; understanding how challenged they all were). The more I displayed displeasure the more taunting. My crazy brother (who could have been a great comedian); even made a song for me based on the great Otis Redding’s, “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay.” Here it goes; “Sitting on the dock of the bay, eating everything away! Gregory munches back on his steak, won’t even give his wife no cake…”

Well, I’ll have you to know that on last night I had a fat juicy steak and thank God my wife isn’t so fond of sweets and my kids are grown! The cake is all mines! From a fat kid in a grown body…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “A Diversified Portfolio” G. Ward

“Then some children were brought to Him so that He might lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them.  But Jesus said, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:13-14

 

AirTran Airlines demonstrated great relativity among consumers with its commercial featuring an elderly couple invited by their children (via plane), visitation with them along with their newborn twins. Upon their arrival the young couple appeared hurried and placed the babies in the arms of these grandparents. The grandmother was entirely preoccupied with the cuteness of the baby she held while the grandfather maintained a look of, “why are you handing this child off to me?” The young couple immediately headed for an awaiting cab suggesting, “See you next week!” The grandfather then chases the cab exclaiming, “Don’t leave us with the babies!”

This weekend our church is hosting its annual Mission’s Fair. This is a great opportunity to involve those not currently attached to a ministry in our church. Like many of your church, getting some to volunteer with children’s ministry is comparable to pulling teeth. Many exclaim the sentiment of AirTran’s granddad. Moreover, they generally insert religiosity as a back-up, expressive of it being a special calling. I absolutely marvel at such defense. Jesus babysat (Mt.19:13-14). We have no idea how long HE spent caring for these little ones, but more importantly sought imparting wisdom unto those grown folks perpetuating an ideology of “children ought to be seen and not heard.”

I write this very particularly as a result of my sitting with my grandson (Colson). I believe grandchildren are a joy. It affords us (grandparents) an opportunity to get child rearing correct, whereas great error was often our necklace with our own progeny. Our patience with them is huge because we understand they grow fast and ingest marvelously. My son is being transferred from Detroit to Birmingham, AL. and their driving would cause Colson great misery. Ethan, his (Colson’s) younger brother won’t know the difference. Here lies my problem; why did Colson have to awaken at 7 a.m. demanding oatmeal, chasing the dog until he was exhausted? Furthermore, why must every toy come under exploration, to be thrown across every room in the house? With all this excitement in being with his Paw-Paw, why is it that he neglected to use his potty appropriately and wait until fresh bathwater was run to then defecate there? I’m sorry. I must leave you now he just awakened…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Strength In Numbers” G. Ward

 

 Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.  Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? ¹² And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” Ecclesiastes. 4:9-12

 

How many of us have begun an exercise regimen to fail? Moreover, have you noticed that everyone’s regimen must begin the following Monday? We hear others exclaim the thousands of dollars they’ve spent on great cardio equipment. Argumentatively, I’ve discovered that if it takes great equipment, then there’s inevitably more to dust…

Although I exercise Monday through Friday unilateral of a partner, those at the gym I attend count on my presence each day. If I neglect my running regimen for the elliptical, many approach me asking about my well-being; so there exists a climate of interdependent accountability.

John Donne (1572-1631), was an English poet, satirist, lawyer and a cleric in the Church of England. He wrote some prolific words concerning the interdependence intended for man. "All mankind is of one author, and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated...As therefore the bell that rings to a sermon, calls not upon the preacher only, but upon the congregation to come: so this bell calls us all: but how much more me, who am brought so near the door by this sickness....No man is an island, entire of itself...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."

Your many troubles kept private remains experientially perpetuated due to having been scorned in times past. This activity should not preclude an ability to trust again (cf. Jas. 5:16). On the island all alone? How’s that working for you?

Happy Wednesday!