Today’s Thought “Authority Questioned” G. Ward

 

“It happened as they were coming, when David returned from killing the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy and with musical instruments. The women sang as they played, and said, “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.” Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?” 1 Samuel 18:6-8

 

How important is it for you in having outsiders recognize your authority? Most will reply that they don’t mind being overlooked. I however, am inclined to believe that this disregard (whether blatant or without cognizance), is an issue of respectability (violated).

King Saul had a great respectability with the Israelites, until a young hero (responsible for killing a great giant soldier from an opposing faction) demonstrated unsuspected bravery. The women (who witnessed this heroism) most certainly didn’t help matters as they quickly devised a song representative of their appreciation for David’s victory. While David exercised in bravery, he never thought to do so anticipating recognition from man (cf. 1 Sa. 17:6). Nor was his desire to usurp authority from the King (1 Sa. 31:11-12).

Impropriety is never less because others progress, particularly when they’re part of our inner circle. Furthermore, it can experientially validate Holy God’s word found in Luke 6:40, “A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.”

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Blessed Quietness” G. Ward

 

“Then Saul disguised himself by putting on other clothes, and went, he and two men with him, and they came to the woman by night; and he said, “Conjure up for me, please, and bring up for me whom I shall name to you.” 1 Samuel 28:8

 

A good definition of despair for me is anticipating resolve from a matter and neglecting to receive an immediate response. When King Saul neglected to hear from heaven soon enough, he turned to a witch to gain perspective immediately. Spiritual leadership instructs us, but certainly not enough concerning Holy God’s silence. Mostly it’s construed as punishment. The ones who have established implicit trust in Him have immediate recall on His words through Isaiah; “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (40:31).

As we earnestly seek greater counsel on life’s many circumstances on this month, let’s not heed intuition, or advice from practitioners of mediocrity. Silence, may be the very protection necessary in warding off despair furthered…

Happy November!

Today's Thought "Room At the Cross" G.Ward

"Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-14

There's a terrible perspective that has become wrongfully pervasive for many who believe they're productive citizens while some refuse to adhere to righteousness. Furthermore they perpetuate cliches like, "You made your bed, so lie in it!" Here's the real translation: "Yes, I too was wayward in thought and practice at one time, but then I matured. Some even considered me hopeless at one time, but I overcame obstacles and never looked back. Moreover, I pulled myself up out of the miry clay and I'm terribly upset with those who won't do the same! Although I've made it, they're hopeless!" I've given them tons of money and they still convey irresponsibility. Many times I sought to encourage them and they maintained an uncooperative spirit.
I supplied food and shelter on occasion and it went unappreciated. Their mouths are without constraint, what comes up, goes out! I could go on and on, but I've got to adjourn to my Ivory Tower; one of those fools who won't cooperate might come and ransack my goods" (signed Arrogance)!
Truth = Categorically, we may not be as bad, but we're entirely inconsistent (cf. Ro. 3:10, 23). To regard anyone as a hopeless fool is the absolute worse vulgarity existent and furthers one's unbelief in Holy God's ability to change the worst. Finally, who are we to snatch up all the King's good and deprive others by insinuating the KING is now depleted? Who then is a fool (cf. Mt. 16:24)?

Happy Thursday!