Today’s Thought “Denial” G. Ward

If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.” 1 John 4:20

Oh no, here he comes again! Every time I see him, I journey the opposite way! Have you ever thought of this as an expression of hatred? Probably not. This John Doe is so negative and nerve-racking.

 To hate is comparable to what it means to love. Categorically, the range is huge. Although I love my Aunt Rose, it’s not the same as the love I have for my child. Hate is merely hoarding feelings of discord about something or someone. The very essence of the word connotes the very worst in emotional range. Although abhorrent to even recite (i.e. hate), it is an adopted condition of man. The Word of God marvelously challenges our common thought process by offering the opposite to traditional sayings. Understanding, then applying Truth must first understand one’s own redemption as necessary because of having missed the mark of excellence (Ro.3:23). Moreover, this recompense offered man does not categorically esteem one over another based on severity of sin; but graciously overshadows (Ro.5:8). We’re admonished to imitate this process through a great interrogative unfolding of our own errancy that wouldn’t ever pinnacle in satisfaction (Phil.3:12-13). The John Doe spoken of earlier deserves better. What if Holy God viewed us as the very irritant John Doe has become? After all, we pompously enter His presence after failing to submit to His way day after day…

“They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:23

Happy Friday!  

Today’s Thought “Looks Like We Made It!” G. Ward

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12

Esoteric to every village throughout America when I was a kid; existed the retail store that specialized more in segmented commodity vs. a general selection of most goods representative of everyday living. Such was the case in Detroit’s Highland Appliance store (located on Woodward Ave. – Highland Park). In the days where an unspoken command existed from parents to children regarding behavior when arriving at a retail outlet, my brother and me accompanied our Mother to this store as she sought purchasing an air conditioning unit (window model); in the days of central air being uncommon (imagine that young people?). As we Cavemen entered the store, my brother’s eyes quickly gravitated to a sight of epic proportion (it’s important he get the blame – he’s a year older). There was a lady awaiting what appeared to have been the city bus at the foyer of that same store. The day was very hot and humid and she was vastly overweight (not as common then vs. today), seeking shelter in this air-conditioned place (in the day where courtesy was extended whether trade occurred or not). Our Mother became occupied with a salesman giving us carte blanche to explore (without going too far). Both of us unquestionably decided to attend what we esteemed as the Side Show (relevant to a carnival of sorts) upon our entry. We stood in this woman’s presence marveling at her size. We laughed hysterically and uncontrollably. This woman had enough of this disrespectful behavior and replied, “Keep it up and both of you are going to be smacked!” Our grin became chagrin as we walked away perplexed at how mean she was (Imagine that?). I’ve grown some since then. It’s primarily due to a forced reconciliation, in that now the children are laughing at me. From the days of it being permissible to discipline other’s children; I, on the other hand just have to remain silent (you better not say anything to someone’s child)…

Happy Throwback Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Dummying Down” G. Ward

“Entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting at the right, wearing a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him. "But go, tell His disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.” Mark 16:5-7

I love the hymn “Ah Lord God” along with its repetitive refrain’s chant that reminds mankind, “Nothing Is Too Difficult for Thee!” We’ve become more alarmed than trusting (in Holy God) regarding great global impropriety in man. Our expeditious erosion towards clichés worth adopting like “Nothing Catches God by Surprise,” as an evil ploy in demanding reprieve from a potential hazard of chaos visiting us soon. Our selfish contemplations view other’s catastrophic moments with a condescending compassion. Grief expressed more lends itself to “it could have been me” attitude vs. Job’s expression of “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face” (Job 13:15).

You may ask (like I have), why weren’t the brothers closest to the Lord Jesus pursuant to knowing what became of their Savior at the crucifixion? Why these grievous women (Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome) who were without a personal appointment? Perhaps it’s because the least of these surprisingly become proactive in implicit trust with Final Authority’s guidance over the ones of us who travel alongside perpetual streams in intellect. In other words, we think too much! “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (Jas.1:22).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Without Recognition” G. Ward

“For you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God. For, "ALL FLESH IS LIKE GRASS, AND ALL ITS GLORY LIKE THE FLOWER OF GRASS. THE GRASS WITHERS, AND THE FLOWER FALLS OFF, BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER." 1 Peter 1:23-25

The pursuit in accolades from man is/can be an arduous process. No matter the achievement, it’s soon to become part of history’s chronicle; forgotten. Rarely are we personally challenged to remember our greatest predecessors. We however are spurned (periodically) to pay homage unto those pioneers of heroic proportions via holiday or convocational recognition.

I believe there to be great missed opportunity in what perceivably is small an accomplishment, yet huge for the beholder of such benevolence. The crucifixion of our LORD could have been perceived as miniscule by those in His day. The practice of crucifixion (by cross) in Palestine during the Roman period was not uncommon. Unlawful individuals knew of horrific consequence for extreme violations. We, the benefactors of what many failed to understand (concerning the Ultimate Sacrifice), shouldn’t seek a historical canonicity to usurp what was given by the Savior, but a more careful surrender unto the best record in heroism given man – Christ and His righteousness. It’s eternally presented to recognize…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Oscar Buzz” G. Ward

“On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began to shout, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel.” John 12:12-13

On last week most media outlets shared great hoopla concerning Sunday’s Academy Awards presentation of its prestigious award, The Oscar. I believe the media, with its attempt towards prudence, sought to both inform, while inciting the world towards an insatiable fixation with entertainment. This appeal’s culminating drive leads to the illustrious “Red Carpet” walk of fame. It’s there that the great movie moguls are welcomed to this event; while camera flashes view their fashion from the world’s acclaimed designers. Great anticipation from commoners like you and me gaze at our television screens to view the stars with an inability to attain towards the same (somewhat arguable).

A similar buzz occurred in Jerusalem with Jesus’ triumphal entry as King of all Kings. Indifferent from typical royal behavior, there was common palm branches laid on the road to welcome this Great King representative of eternal life. Moreover, this greatest King arrived with great chants of highest praise on a donkey (notably regarded as an animal of peace); contradictory of an ordinary king’s culture (post victory) arriving on a horse (a beast of war). This great buzz wasn’t the production of exclusivity, INARGUABLY ATTAINABLE (Ro.10:13)!

Happy Monday!

 

Today’s Thought “Presuppositional Turmoil” G. Ward

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Matthew 6:24

Young people have debated what perceivably is an antiquated philosophy from seasoned adults for a very long time. This debate usually arrives upon being rejected on desires expressed. Seasoned adults are privileged in having witnessed an outcome similar, feeling it necessary to warn the younger of an undesired consequence. There’s very little resolve in these great dialogues because of a great war in cultural relativism. Whatever the masses are doing will lend itself to the viability of a stated cause.

Sadly, a better contemplative review in history will reveal these arguments are thousands of years old. While the culture changes, God’s word does not. Holy God is/has always been relevant and transcendent of time. Be sure to convince young people through personal admittance of relating (often) to cultural standards over interrogating a higher one. Perhaps then you’ll be heard.

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “What Does God Need?” G. Ward

“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.” 2 Corinthians 1:21-22

 

A great gospel song is sung. A tremendous sermon is preached. It’s only then we hear the term propagated in these modern times, “anointed.” Rarely will we contemplate the temporal state in existence for those great promulgators. We tag those blessed ones unjustly, delineating Anointing as synonymous with talent (i.e. entertaining). The Anointed One is Christ and in Him is all sufficiency.

Holy God created heaven and earth, parted an ocean, fed thousands on very little fish and bread, asking us to surrender to these facts, to not pay attention to a visual society that would compel us to believe (cf. Mt. 12:39). Our insistence demands a better King (cf. 1 Sa. 8). The preeminent insistence from man begins with “our terms” while His words share an end without your appropriation considered…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “An Angry Genre” G. Ward

“Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.” Ephesians 4:26

 

With all our expediency towards technological advances and social impetus, we’ve forgotten to impart a basic standard in cooperating with authority that brought us thus far. It’s as if we’re saying to our predecessors, the boundaries they introduced were so entirely constraining that it squashed a potential prowess (for those prior generational zealots like me), disabling our blending thoroughly with the young stars of today. Hogwash! Understanding the existence of exclusivity throughout every sociological and employment scenario given us, is the responsibility we have in sharing (patiently) with those younger. It furthered proper investigation from us regarding the entity of our pursuits, allowing acclimation unto a presented code without compromise. Young people today, although capable in articulating laws that demand inclusion, fail to realize great war and sacrifice (even up to death), enabling current freedoms.

Now, imposed injustices are angrily contested by the violated, in the very moment of the perceived violation, without regard to the authority. Questions that may shed clarity unto the authoritarian go violated, assuming injustice vs. order. To teach denial, sacrifice, peace, contentment and resolve, is a message that transcends every generation (cf. Mt.16:24). It benefits every man and promotes continuity vs. war.

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Living for the Grace of God” G. Ward

 “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19

It’s been alluded to that a pursuit in career shouldn’t be determined on the money involved and if joy is the result, then mission is accomplished.  A fixation unto this pursuit can be cumbersome. It involves more uncertainty, than surety; while furthering a variety of failures as a ground work for knowing (unequivocally so) one’s destiny.

Can a great deal of failure really be a determinant in revealing a scope for life; or is it exhaustion from miserable things finding rest in first appearances relative to peace? Clarity for any man’s life cannot be his own quest, particularly when he arrived with nothing and will depart on those terms. The Maker’s objective for any life must remain ongoing (cf. Phil 3:12). It cannot relax in a limited wisdom, but must consult (daily) with the One who sustains life and judges the afterlife (Mt.10:28).

Happy Tuesday!

 

 Today’s Thought The Hypocrite G. Ward

Luke 13

¹⁵ But the Lord answered him and said, “You hypocrites, does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the stall and lead him away to water him? ¹⁶ And this woman, a daughter of Abraham as she is, whom Satan has bound for eighteen long years, should she not have been released from this bond on the Sabbath day?” ¹⁷ As He said this, all His opponents were being humiliated; and the entire crowd was rejoicing over all the glorious things being done by Him.

This term hypocrite is perhaps the most widely misunderstood phenomenon. Conveniently and hap-hazardly, many outside the realm of dedicated worship regard the commitment of one devoted to spiritual growth as maniacal. While many may exact pretentious behaviors in the name of religion, along with its practiced jargon, the un-churched listen, locked in defense mode, revealing inadequacy. Can anyone rejoice in inadequacy?

The very essence of hypocrisy fails to see mercy shown everyone (cf. Ro.5:8). It obtains falsely by demanding others climb the pinnacle of their pursuit (cf. Eph.2:8-9). It most certainly is opposite of patience, kindness, gentleness, etc. It over-simplifies life’s complications, never to offer reprieve unto its many captives; claiming freedom, although in bondage. On the other hand, those forgiven seek those needing forgiveness. When they awaken, there’s an intentionality to find a treasure. The treasure is the one the Savior died for (Ro. 10:13). “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher” (Ro.10:14)?

Happy Monday

Today’s Thought “Sunday Struggle” G. Ward

“And so, by sinning against the brethren and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.” 1 Corinthians 8:12

We’re unable to attend our own funerals to hear all the great accolades in how we’ve impacted so many. Some are better than others in extending gratuity unto friends and loved ones very often while life exists. Whatever appreciation exists in our lives, we must raise the banner of cognizance to know whether self perception in exemplary behavior exists or not, we have influenced many.

Corporate worship is the heartbeat in this New Testament. It heralds as the chieftain to constraint as we interdependently encounter Holy God’s word. It furthers the intent of our Holy Father that would make us one in the unity of faith – superseding biological parameters. It testifies that chaotic behaviors and conditions persist when I neglect devotion to the fellowship. I’m physically, emotionally and spiritually rejuvenated while with the brethren and thereafter, that sustains me as I endeavor those disconnected with the blessed hope.

I can’t wait till Sunday Morning!

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Embellishment; Kin to Deception” G. Ward

“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18

If I coulda woulda shoulda, that's what folks always say

If I coulda woulda shoulda, and its always to late

I'm sayin it now

I'm sayin it now

Strangely, this is the chorus to one of the many songs of acclaim entitled, If I Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda sung by the Soulful, Velvet-Voiced, Late Lou Rawls. It substantiates that life is filled with regrets. Our societal signature compels us to respond to varied circumstances hurriedly. Rarely, do most contemplate the holistic reverberating effect in this decisiveness.

Brian Williams, NBC’s chief anchor and managing editor, knows something of these impetuous behaviors, just recently tagged the professor of idiocy that could tarnish his legacy as a masterful journalist. Moreover, the president of the network authoritatively demanded a six month suspension in response to his opting for more sensationalistic journalism than accurate reporting. The media, seemingly with camaraderie network to network, perpetuated even greater injustice by sharing his ten million dollar annual salary (knowing of American’s fixation in materialism). How utterly contradictory!

My castigation with this kind of victimization is lessened as I contemplate the many errors of my life and the costs therein (cf. Mt.7:1-5).  It teaches me that “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (Pr.17:28, 29:20).

Happy Thursday!

 

Today’s Thought “Beyond the Scope of Man” G. Ward

“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper;
and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
and their vindication is from Me,” declares the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17

Songs, along with personal claimants of scripture will often look for more a selfish benefit than stated reality. Isaiah the prophet sought to comfort Israel with a future hope. The actuality in this passage has yet to be fulfilled for even our modernity. The writer himself was guaranteed a future hope also, but was killed (innocently so) via cut in half by a wooden saw (cf. Heb 11:13-40, *37). All the apostles but John died violent, horrible deaths. Why then are we formulatively extracting scriptural benefits (via excerpt only) in protection from Holy God? Where did HE guarantee the same not befalling us? This is what is meant by Jesus’ statement, “Remember what I told you: A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also” (Jn. 15:20).

Enough with all that bible study Gregory! We just want to keep using Holy God for our personal benefit! Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul (Jn.14:1-3)…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Motivation” G. Ward

He blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” He gave him a tenth of all.” Genesis 14:19-20

Every convenience is extended Americans on this week to ensure their loved ones have flowers, chocolate covered strawberries, or even chocolate diamonds from local jewelers. Great incentives of free delivery accompany purchases if considered four days (or more) before this illustrious holiday upcoming. Moreover, aisle ways throughout most retail distributors (even hardware type outlets) are with massive displays of holiday paraphernalia, tempting souls towards early purchasing.

Do you feel it necessary to opt for extravagance in what should be a day recognizing love and appreciation? Tennis bracelets, pendants and gold rings tarnish, but tremendous efforts (outside of holiday mandates) in love shown, shed testimonial and exemplary peace. The reciprocity from the recipients therein compels others towards an un-superficial striving in a pursuit of un-prompted affection.

After you’ve visited tangible assertions of love year after year, you’re with containers of chocolate diamonds, while your peripheral scope views this fat, pot bellied guy doing heinous things on your sofa while watching every sports program available, awaiting a next holiday to say he loves you.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Botched Botox” G. Ward

“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” Proverbs 16:31

“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher, “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity” (Eccl.1:2)! I’ve come to a better understanding of what insatiable behaviors found in man meant for King Solomon; particularly after watching 15 minutes of the 2015 Grammy Awards on last evening. Amidst a variety of stars I’m not acquainted with, I witnessed some of old (literally) who have become a plastic-surgeon’s delight. Moreover, Clairol, Grecian Formula and other hair care moguls (specializing in hair dye) bask at the exciting possibility in other’s adopting this genre of denial. While I’m certainly not a friend to frivolous lawsuits I must admit that some of these greedy surgeons should be subject to malpractice violations in that they’ve perpetuated cranial mishaps simulating what a face may appear to be in the strongest wind tunnel. Okay! Enough already Gregory!

The actuality of this life given may be without a cosmetic parameter in spiritual proportions; but may certainly offer question to the concocted metamorphositic narcissism I witnessed in some last evening (perhaps I’m jealous?)…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Now and Laters” G. Ward

“For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end, while it is said, "TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS, AS WHEN THEY PROVOKED ME." For who provoked Him when they had heard? Indeed, did not all those who came out of Egypt led by Moses?” Hebrews 3:14-16

Five or ten cents had great meaning when I was a kid. It meant going to the local store to scan the candy aisle absolutely torn on whether to purchase a chocolate candy bar or some of that delicious hard taffy called “Now & Laters.” Amazingly, candy companies manufactured a standard size pack or bar almost double to the existing delicacies. “Now & Laters” became the choice for so many because it lasted a long time and was a most excellent manipulative tool. Your peers would stand at bay in mean spiritedness knowing your pocket revealed something they desired. When you ran out, abusive behavior would return hastily.

The word of God cannot be purchased (1 Cor.6:20) but comparatively lasts a lifetime. Its sweet, savory guidance is comparably ingestible (cf. Ezek.3:2-4), yielding peace and joy for the children of the Most High (cf. Ro.10:8-9). Contrary to entreating selfishness, the children of God realize it’s enough to give away to everyone, never subjective, but entirely factual. There’s no seeking to employ temporal joy unto those troubled souls; it ensures security for believers to exemplify righteousness for the new life given (Ro.6:4). Hastily, I’ll run to it…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Generational Mishap” G. Ward

“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.…” Galatians 6:1-2

 

The jury is still out on what really happened to Bobbi Kristina Brown (Daughter to Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown) that caused her to be rushed to a hospital, regarded as a victim of drowning. Ironically, she was found unconscious face down in a bathtub, similar to how her mother was found almost three years ago. Her family remains vigil at her bedside while life support mechanisms keep her functioning. This open ended kind of devastation yields terrible speculations from every facet in society. There’s absolutely no resolve given by John Q. Public via castigations or speculations. Prayers of comfort are what’s necessary. Holy God allows this kind of tragedy for His own reasons (cf. Isa.55:8-9). I choose, with a great intentionality to make my salutations unto many (transcendent of age) more genuine an inquiry. In other words, my “How are you today,” will seek to offer myself (through greater listening and a preparedness in activity) although it may serve as an interruption in what has become my plight to a day afforded me by our Great Redeemer (Ps.118:24).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Life, A Bout In Difficulty” G. Ward

“Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-8

Why so much trouble? Seemingly, I’ve just conquered something major to now have another crisis enter. Is this supposed to happen to believers? I ascribe to so many devotional thoughts that share otherwise. They couldn’t be wrong; tens of thousands support them. I have to remain quiet with my troubles because it may reveal my lack of faith. I’ll not stop worshipping because the many I encounter weekly seem as though they’ve gravitated to understanding the denial in these incessant sufferings.

Old Testament’s Job said something more substantive to realize concerning life; "Man is born unto trouble as the sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7). Job’s following expression more reveals the herbicidal antidote for the thistles and THORNS in his garden - "But as for me, I would seek God, And I would place my cause before God” (Job 5:8). Job was more sharing how life’s trouble, although inescapable, seeks to establish reprieve from the Proven Deliverer. The Apostle Paul in our lesson text echoed the same sentiment (But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Cor.12:9).

My best retort unto the irreligious zealots, who in all their eloquent discourses make me feel unfaithful for many troubles experienced, is a perfect counteraction in individual pursuit of the Holy One first! He’ll surely be my Comfort (cf. Ps.46:1)!

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Lord, I Tried…” G. Ward

“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-9

“I need a new attitude.” “I’m going to begin a total health regimen.” “Those relationships not beneficial for me – gone…” The practicality in change is perhaps the most wavering aspect of our lives. I want to offer on today hearty congratulations unto each of you who have endeavored an ongoing need to change. I’m certainly not extending kudos for our attitudes ever evolving – that can be entirely cumbersome. Those insatiable drives more yield to an ideology of “I can fix it.” My admiration stems from the essence of obliterating great problems or addictions, realizing first that there is a problem. Most know more about the pervasiveness in societal expediency that rarely slows down enough to know of a problem.

It’s been given us definitively to understand the meaning of insanity as doing things in a like manner expecting different results. Absolute surrender unto our Sufficient King guarantees PEACE enough to stop trying in my own might. “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want” (Phil.4:12).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Baby It’s Cold Outside” G. Ward

“And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh.” Jude 1:22-23

Our Great God of provision is most certainly worthy of all honor in view of allowing our rescue from perishing. While we may rejoice in our surrender as a servant of the Most High, cognizance with others mocking must not drive more defense, but proaction. Criticism of what seemingly is relinquishing an intellectual posturing common to man, is ultimately a misunderstanding of our very existence. In other words, “God gave you a brain, now use it!” While it certainly sounds prudent, particularly in view of the success with so many including us; quiet moments may reveal a necessary contrast of success vs. failure; unmasking our evaluations of failure as painful. The Apostle Paul desired the world to know that his soul accepted a redemption for himself and others, but persistent practice in surrender is a must: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Phil.3:12). In his day the Roman Empire embraced a plethora of intellectualisms to which he also was superior (cf.Ac.22:2-3), but the newness of life (Jn.14:6, Ro.6:4) afforded him demanded he give to others that to which he received (Phil.3:7-8).

Happy Monday!