Today’s Thought “Indigenously Awkward” G. Ward

“I sent a plague among you after the manner of Egypt; I slew your young men by the sword along with your captured horses, And I made the stench of your camp rise up in your nostrils; Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the Lord. “I overthrew you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah,
and you were like a firebrand snatched from a blaze; yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the Lord. Amos 4:10-11

Disproportionately, inherited wealth is the largest contributor for the affluent in America. The top 1% of wealthy Americans have amassed so much wealth nationally that it spurs great inequality, stagnating  income growth potential for many like you and me. My concern is for those (transcendent to the 1%’s) who have become sufficient on their own material prosperity. Have they not witnessed the rich dying? Have they not viewed the rise and fall of these economic giants emotionally and physically? Moreover, rarely heard are the testimonials from the fiscally sound about a potential and needed common denominator to man; Jesus Christ as LORD (Master, Owner) to their lives. While there is nothing wrong with wealth (as there is being poor), it’s yet a bigger responsibility amidst an American culture overwhelmingly aspiring wealth to share dependency on Holy God vs. things (cf. Phil.2:10-11)…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Fad Purchasing” G. Ward

“You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up.” Deuteronomy 11:18-19

PF Flyers was as comparable a sneaker as Nike’s Air Jordan is today. This sneaker of old had great promotion via a television commercial featuring Hanna-Barbara’s cartoon champion Jonny Quest. Prior to that, the Boston Celtics premier point guard Bob Cousy was its greatest promoter. The entire campaign imposed an idea for every boy or girl to "run faster and jump higher.” My horrible parents failed miserably in not purchasing my siblings and me these outstanding shoes (I’ve never forgiven them – LOL.).

The fashion fad (for the 20^th century and this one also) transcends clothing and shoes. This cultural genre is captivating, involving everyone. Perhaps your area in guilty is categorically less, but any is somewhat unsettling. It promotes more insatiability in man than contentment (cf. Phil.3:11-12). Maturity demands return unto foundational matters (Mal.3:7). A basic provision given every man that lessens the strife of indecision is the eternal journal authored by Holy God (2 Ti.3:16-17). It keeps giving…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Green Acres” G. Ward

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23

Uncle “Doo-Dat” is a 94 year old uneducated farmer living in South Georgia. When he was younger, purchasing hundreds of acres in land was his only consideration (sharecropping, an unfair practice, was a loophole of slavery for 20^th century agriculturalists). That generation more contemplated legacy building than personal riches through land acquisition. “Doo-Dat” and his wife personally constructed a very modest home while simultaneously insistent in designating a sector of land for a local church to be built. As typical, his children sought higher education, abhorring the hard work farming offered. I’ve had many opportunities to sit in the presence of this vivacious senior adult. His movement is slower, but his mind is sharp and marvels at the hurried behavior of so many. I believe the secret to his successful perspective is something he echoes for others to think on periodically. Uncle “Doo-Dat” said, “I have sat on the front row at funerals of many who tried to work me to death!”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Stress Kills” G. Ward

“Those who love Your law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble.” Psalm 119:165

Trouble will/can often reveal a need to turn back the hand of time to submit to proven leadership. It vows to never repeat the offense. It begs for rescue with great appeal, utilizing monologue that says, “If I get out of this one…”

The entirety of this is likely attributable to our abusive perception of Who God is. Our lack in consideration of His omniscience supposes He doesn’t desire us to suffer one singular moment (cf. Jas.1:2-3). He is not the rich uncle who bails us out of fiscal impropriety. Moreover, there is greater contingency in Knowing Him than copying and pasting slogans about His sufficiency (cf. Gal.6:7). Ordinarily, this wouldn’t be a second point in contemplation for many viewed as irrelevant,  in that songs like, “What A Friend We Have In Jesus” would resonate immediately. This generation, on the other hand prefers songs like, “God Has A Blessing With Yo Name On It!”

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Pressing Through” G. Ward

“Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil.”  Proverbs 4:25-27

So what prayer and bible readings have been ruled unconstitutional in schools! That’s been 52 years ago and we’re still whining? Believers of the 1^st century didn’t allow the Roman Empire’s celebration of false deities to instruct their kids on how to pray. They understood outsourcing parental responsibility to lead and exemplify what prayer and bible study should represent is ordained by Holy God (Deut.6:4-7), and not to be given another. Allowing an atheistic movement’s dictation of what was never a denial of our children to either pause to pray or assemble in the same, is the perpetuation of the modern-day believer’s refusal to do the WORK required in knowing God (1 Jn.5:3).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Lethargy, A Silent Killer” G. Ward

“Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” Acts 17:11

For many, being the church is short lived after service time is over (cf. Ezek.33:30-33). The preoccupation with selfish desires immediately takes hold; particularly so if the preacher was a little lengthy. Very little preparation is given the day before allowing enough rest enabling anticipation of worship. Therefore, exhaustion will soon miniscule the message. Moreover, awakening in just enough time for departure unto worship services disallows breakfast, so by mid-service I’m famished, precluding the sermon from being heard. Personal review of the Word of God taught isn’t necessary because he was coming “straight from the word” (as if the Devil can’t – Mt.4:1-11).

Ultimately, we’ll wonder why it is the world is so regressive. The answer is that too many are presumptive in “mustard seed” faith vs. personal growth.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Sacred Journey” G. Ward

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

President Jimmy Carter was recently given a very grim prognosis. Cancer is now said to have metastasized unto portions of his brain and liver and for a 90 year old, treatment most certainly may be somewhat futile.

In recent years, two men from our church (who were also my personal friends) approached me with such news. I marveled at their reception towards a final calling to fulfill. Without hesitance, my care didn’t lay claimants on recovery; substantiating, “Nothing is too difficult for our Lord,” it inquired of treatment and final preparation. Spiritual matters were first addressed, baptizing both (very difficult with both as one brother had very little breathing capacity and the other with brittle bone structure), and then family wishes were conveyed (via prayers and dialogue). This process culminated with me preaching their funerals.

We’ve been taught to place claimants (by faith) on recovery, delineating death (in earth) as something Holy God didn’t propose from the beginning (cf. Isa. 53:1-5, Phil.1:21). The actuality of life given demands our attention (*only practicing believers) about earth being a strange land and heaven as home. Why is truth avoided (Col.2:8)?

Happy Friday!  *Ro.6:4, 2 Cor.5:17

Today’s Thought “Theoretical Mishap” G. Ward

Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses.” Matthew 23:1-2

The seat of Moses for Jews was regarded as the most authoritative position within the synagogue. Although the relevance of the chair seems esoteric to Old Testament, we’ve viewed the transcendence of this tag in every realm of life.  Colleges and universities (in this modernity) now refer to their department heads as “chair.” It’s representative of their authoritative knowledge in a particular subject.

The problem with this could be the same as Jesus proposed for those self-imposed leaders of that day. Jesus said, “They do things to be noticed by men.” Moreover, the Savior sought to warn His disciples and the multitudes in being impressed by those great intellectuals. Religious zealots (i.e. preachers) of today are leaders of conjecture more than truth. They still desire being seen over the message of the cross (1 Cor. 2:1-8), promoting dependence on them vs. personal intimacy with Holy God (Ro. 10:8). Truth tellers still hide (Ps.27:5) behind the Great “I AM…”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “90 Day Rule” G. Ward

“An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.” Proverbs 31:10-11

Awaiting Christmas for young people can be the tease that promotes violation. The decorative tree in the living room surely has his/her special gift(s) underneath? Sadly, this anticipation is accompanied with incessant vigil of what may or may not be all they wanted and they won’t know until the 25^th.

The dating game is similar. The superficiality of physicality, particularly in a culture de-valuing virtue, awaits greater intimacy. The best (i.e. demeanor and communication skills) is presented, identifying commonality and when indifference enters, it’s extinguished via compromise. Weeks turn into months and we’ve become comfortable with one another, trusting their heart, rarely to realize a great deal more in superficiality was the production. While culture says the 25^th is approaching rapidly (because we’ve waited patiently, avoiding, presumably a promiscuous tag) and finally the gift is unraveled and it’s more of a trick, than a treat…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “One Love” G. Ward

“Stop regarding man in whose nostrils is breath, for of what account is he?” Isaiah 2:22

There are so many forsaking religious non-profit tax exempt status in view of their (self-imposed) authoritativeness concerning God’s word. Their pulpit is comparable to the convenience store that never closes. In other words, their perspectives, opinions and sayings are readily available for disbursement. Their suggestive selling seemingly allows goods (i.e. their sermons) to fly off shelves. If their religious perspectives were corporate, record profits would reveal a portfolio worth following.

Although I’m being entirely cynical in my thought on today, there’s exhaustion on my part. I’m more realizing that the spread of vain philosophy subtracts from those burdened in despair to find real hope (cf. 1 Pe. 3:15). If/when truth becomes more than perceived, the moral climate, along with its recipients would more exact the message (Eph.4:5) of reconciliation that’s BEYOND OPINION…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “The Heat Is On…” G. Ward

“The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the Lord tests hearts.” Proverbs 17:3

Another Sunday gone and not enough repentance of sin (and that’s everyone) took place. Pastors are now sharing exciting capabilities with thousand of congregants shouting chants of trouble ends today, no more sickness and money cometh vs. warnings against mediocrity. The first two chants aren’t the priority, it’s the third that embraces uprising; “Money cometh!” While congregants aren’t climbing the socio-economic ladder (and actually become poorer) their bishops are becoming the nation’s top 1% (substantiating wealth by sharing that Abraham was rich, as if he sought owning Bentleys, planes, etc.). Many of us support these ministries because they appear so “grass root” (trust me; they don’t live in your neighborhood Mr. Rogers). While national ministries can be quite accentuating to our belief, the local church on the hill has to close their door (i.e. failing to meet their budget). The original intent of Holy God is marred once again; because millions opt out for another charismatic king vs. The King of kings…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Co-Piloting” G. Ward

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.” Romans 12:18-19

How can anyone juxtapose their own capability along with a professional proven-ness when very little to no training is the accompanist? In other terms, joining America’s bobsled team for the 2018 Winter Olympics may be delusional.

Our lives are seemingly packed experientially with enough scenarios in irreconcilable behavior to determine what road to pursue. If that’s so, why so much misery (*Job 14:1)? Man continues to pursue what seems to be right, while mostly wrong (Judg.21:25). Power within for every believer is inextricably ours (Ro.8:31-35). Holy God is without need for you to co-pilot. HE’s in charge of the destination; so stay away from the cockpit shouting, “Are We There Yet (Lam.3:25)?”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Wile E. Coyote” G. Ward

“Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2 Timothy 2:3-4

It’s the quintessential cartoon for the “Baby Boomers” generation; The Adventures of the Road Runner. The song of intro synopsized the impossible feats from the coyote to make prey of the Road Runner. Rather than a naturally imposed animal instinct to capture prey, this coyote sought to make the ACME company’s (a pseudo company) vast category of snares and explosives superior to any.

Going beyond the parameter of our existence, particularly concerning reliance on a plethora of things and people as a true guiding light, arrogantly denies the Sufficiency in Holy God as more than enough; and like “Wile E. Coyote,” you’ll be permanently hungry…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Subjective Appointment” G. Ward

At that time Jesus said, "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants.”Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight.…” Matthew 11:25-26

Many years ago my wife and I would meet with other couples on Saturday evenings where card playing, laughter and dancing would take place. It was good, clean fun. Although great fun continued to exist, my wife and I favored what Sunday mornings offered by early departure (at these gatherings). Moreover, that gathering would need full alertness (i.e. proper rest) to enable this gathering’s success. Particularly so because our war in selfishness (our will over said ownership – cf. 1 Cor.6:19-20) all the week was/is exasperating. The spiritual reminders lent us via our worship services is the aid to obliterate authority over what was never our own (Heb.10:25)…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Selfishly Absorbing” G. Ward

“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33

Forgiveness (unfortunately) is more conditional than naught. Its primary perspective in “forgive, but not forgetting” has become an acceptable trait in earth (cf. Heb. 8:12, 10:17); while humanly impossible. Our religious front echoes praise in receiving grace and mercy, without understanding its first premise – restoration as if the violation never occurred (Eph.4:32). If/when we exacerbate a notion that conditional forgiveness is acceptable, we deny forgiveness of our own sins. Receiving a tremendous gift (Ro.5:8) without a willingness to share in the same is selfish hypocrisy, guaranteeing an eternity away from the KING…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Treasure Hunt” G. Ward

“Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” James 2:5

More than fifty percent of the World’s population (6 billion +) survive each day on $2.50 or less. As you do the math, unfathomable is no less encompassing your thoughts. Abject poverty is rarely an American view until we encounter homelessness and even then, humanitarian relief may be imminent.

Our Friday nights is a “date night” for our church. We venture unto downtown Atlanta to offer our Lord’s hospitality (food, clothing, etc.). We’ve done this for almost 10 years and our primary intent never sought to have pity on the less fortunate. This hospitality shown our friends always blesses our mindsets. It re-introduces more similarity in mankind than difference. Furthermore it teaches us that Poor, is relative to perspective. When we fail to see as the Savior saw, the fortune before us can’t be found (cf. Mt.9:36-38)…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Brand New?” G. Ward

“That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

If everyone who dies go to heaven, who qualifies for hell? The answers from man according to every bible precept are without merit; he certainly lacks personal righteousness (Eph. 2:8-9). Moreover, he can never be good enough (Lk.18:18-22), although many think of themselves as better. Categorically, Holy God’s view of man’s fallenness is without partiality; murder is synonymous with lying and churchgoers are the same as those not dedicated until conformity to becoming “brand new” is his insistence (*1 Jn.4:10, 5:3)…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “The View” G. Ward

“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come?” Psalm 121:1

Peripheral vision is that stereoscopic ability to view varied objects outside the realm of traditional range.  The view from this periphery is weak (i.e. without great ability to distinguish color and shape) with humans. Ultimately, it’s without reliance, yet unquestionably understands the presence of objects of sorts.

Comparatively, our life journey is the same; the view is limited (1 Cor.13:9-12). The only scope given man to interpret is a directive by his Creator (cf. Jn.15:5). The impracticality of things perceived yields more perspective, which altogether amounts to a temporary scope (Mt. 24:35).  There’s a surety through constant view of Calvary’s cross as the primary lens; demanding that everything remaining thereafter is weak (without reliance)…

Happy Wednesday!