Today’s Thought “Good Cop, Bad Cop…” G. Ward

 ^“For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same.” Romans 13:3

A land comprised of immigrants, presumably established in civility with some invited by hospitable Indian fellows (portrayed as savages via movies, until Tonto (Lone Ranger) who knew there to be enough land for everyone; is now so sectarian that the divide appears a chasm irretrievable. Current citizens have forgotten of the sanctioned hatred towards racial classes of these predecessors in Americanism. We’re on the cusp of anarchy because so many are seeking to impose their doctrine on a free society (cf. 1 Co.14:26) and whatever the race of the bothered, the other predominant groups link the entire ethnicity with the value system of the perpetrator, forgetting there are millions (Read it again slowly.).

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Why So Angry?” G. Ward

“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11

It’s delusional to expect a dividend check when no investment was considered. For this modernity, it’s a synopsis for the lack in proper advocacy for our young people. This generation’s outlook is bleak because so many parade such permissiveness where structure is set in stone. When offers of indifference are presented, many are said to violate creativity in young people. Not so very long ago, Blacks were without due process (i.e. Jim Crow Laws), including exposure to some schools violating Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954), by desegregating in the early 1970’s. Parents of our generation warned us daily of that kind of non-compliance. Therefore, when adversity came (and it did) we weren’t reactionary; because real fear wasn’t the police, it was our Mother.

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Arthritic Pain” G. Ward

“For I know my transgressions, And my sin is ever before me.” Psalm 51:3

Many of us have reached an Autumn in our lives that won’t compel another meteorologist forecast of rain to determine whether the bonnet accompanies me or not. The sudden, debilitating, dull, throbbing ache of varied joints say rain is imminent. This eventuality demands reprieve. The cure imposed on us relies on the medicine cabinet and if someone testifies unto something different and attainable (up to squirrel urine) it could be a remote consideration.

Sin’s absolution is as necessary through Holy God’s vindicating as meds are for excruciating joint pain (cf. Mk.2:7). To think I can go on with un-resolved sin while seeking to be earth’s productive citizen, assumes (horribly so) others are blinded in my theatric posturing. I’m tired and burdened and need the Throne Room (Mt.11:28-30)…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Laid Bare” G. Ward

“In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there.” Mark 1:35

What does it mean to come boldly before the throne of grace (Heb.4:16)? Moreover, when I get there what should begin? If I start with praise (seemingly wonderful to do), did I consider my violating the Holy One with all of His instruction for me in the times prior? If my parents demanded I clean my room and not to vacate until completed and my fascination with my great intellect sought going out to suggest how beautiful my Mother is (i.e. seeking to avoid the task given), I’d be told again, “Go clean the room!”

Our great commandment given us by the Savior’s work at Calvary demanded we reach and teach others un-acquainted with mercy and grace from on High and I keep singing this song “Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone” while violating the first premise of my belief. I must return to my room, it’s a mess!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Have I Forgotten?” G. Ward

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits.” Psalm 103:1-2

While a spirit of un-cooperation appears prevalent (from many) once I vacate the threshold of my doorwell; it cancels mercy for those pursuant to righteousness. Many in faith more simulate soothsayers (a person able to foresee the future) than grateful recipients in redemption. The view from these horrible prognosticators gives up on some, rendering them hopeless. The actuality in their report more tell Holy God that even HE can’t change them = blasphemy! Categorically, man assesses other sins found in mankind, while Our Savior died for all. Mercy is not your inheritance when you fail to be merciful (i.e. Entirely patient, waiting on some, because HE waited on you…).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Inevitable Chaos” G. Ward

“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

Why is good customer service a factor in my frequenting a retail outlet of sorts? Many respond, “Because it’s my hard earned money in exchange for product and services!” While this is entirely irrefutable, it never warrants a horrible reciprocity from the consumer when the worker fails in courtesy (cf. Mt.5:16). Furthermore, the insistence of the consumer to speak to a supervisor (when contemplated thoroughly), will soon reveal where the un-professionalism emanates (i.e. “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”).

The believer’s expectation as they interact with varied forms of what society offers, ought to expect the absolute worse because the likelihood in receiving is highly probable (Mt.7:13-14). The world promotes narcissistic posturing, creating great un-rest in the mindset of the un-churched; while the church beholds the antidote and won’t give the shot (Lk.14:23)…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Mind Regulation” G. Ward

“The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me. I will bless the LORD who has counseled me; Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night. I have set the LORD continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.…” Psalm 16:6-8

Loss, whether tangible or emotional, can be a tumultuous experience. The subtlety of its arrival can cause immediate lethargy and confusion. Forgetting a most Excellent Shelter is then pertinent to a heritage given for every believer (cf. Isa.4:5-6). If your inheritance was exhausted by the personal predecessor responsible for you (cf. Phil.3:13-14), determine to leave a better one for either your own progeny or another to ensure a legacy in trusting Holy God for every generation.

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Without Grace” G. Ward

“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

Stop, drop and roll is the best practice when fire consumes our bodies. It’s so very engrained in our mindsets that if faced with such a crisis it’s probable that our yielding to this would save our lives. The Word of God for the believer is filled with reminders of the Savior’s graciousness towards us (Ro.5:8). Have we sought a practice in reciprocity (Jas.2:13)? Is there one in your embrace needing restoring (i.e. forgiveness) before you die? Moreover, are you with claimants on heaven while pompously not forgiving another; very particularly in view of your being instrumental in crucifying our Lord (cf. Ac.2:22-24, 37)? Without showing mercy, you’re perhaps on your way to a fire that can’t be put out…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Early Winter” G. Ward

He answered them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.” Matthew 16:2-3

Whether you support political implications of “Global Warming” or not won’t change the fact that I’ve awakened the past two days to the equivalent of late January weather. I listen to the forecasts marveling at these early extremes never to contemplate our dependence on fossil fuels vs. pursuit of clean, renewable energy implementation. My only concern is determining how I should dress.

Furthermore, I believe our earthly stewardship (cf. Ge.1:26-30, Ps.8:4-8) if followed implicitly by the Land Owner (i.e. Holy God) maintained in the mindset of man as his highest consideration, health, economics and inclusiveness would permeate the world…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Reverence, Regardless” G. Ward

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.” Psalm 145:18-19

On last week, former Los Angeles Lakers player Lamar Odom experienced a setback that almost cost him life on earth. His popularity as a professional sports hero along with marrying into a family of notable wealth enabled great media coverage. Social media’s participants implored everyone to pray and very particularly that Holy God would demonstrate His wonder working ability.

Here’s the problem. The audacity in demand from such lowly vessels unto the Creator, Controller, Owner, All Wise, King of all Kings, need not submit to a desperate people for a sign (Mt.12:39); while superficially proclaiming after Odom regained composure that He’s worthy to be praised. I’m troubled about a people told to celebrate a longing for home (cf. Jn. 14:1-3, 2 Co. 5:1-5, Phil.1:21) that desire to live problem free in earth, while wondering if this sports star died, would Holy God be praised then for the Great Things HE Has Done?

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Just Got Paid…” G. Ward

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” Titus 2:11-12

Is there great fiscal detriment associated with getting paid on the 15^th so very close to Saturday? Are we more subject to visit the pricier restaurant vs. the franchise? The enormity in deeper contemplation with choice may lessen; particularly when one fails to plan, violating needed budget. While being frugal has become synonymous with cheap, frugality’s posturing is rarely depleted…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Pragmatic Assessment” G. Ward

“And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:4-5

Here’s horrible trichotomizing (so please forgive me in advance): The winners of various oratorical contests (for young people) while urged to become preachers, or politicians (in adulthood), could very well choose pimping (of sorts). All seek (vocationally) to persuade men unto captive thoughts. Unfortunately many are reliant on eloquence vs. trusting substance via conviction.

More than demanding speeches in exhilaration (which come and go) that temporarily renders comfort and a pseudo confidence; there’s TRUTH that transcends generations (read our scripture emphasis again).

Happy Thursday!  

Today’s Thought “Looking for Grandmother” G. Ward

“For the living know they will die; but the dead do not know anything, nor have they any longer a reward, for their memory is forgotten.” Ecclesiastes 9:5

There’s an autumn that many experience in longing to hear a voice of the past and particularly when love defined the relationship more than any other adjective. When loss occurs, genuine words of comfort from others convey what has been for numerous generations that aren’t entirely true (e.g. “Mother is looking down on us,” or “When I get to heaven I’m going to look for _______.”).

Faith under the auspice of Christ seeks to impart to His disciples a unity (Eph.4:4-6) expressive of every believer as family. In other words, “blood is thicker than water” when the premise has become the spillage at Calvary’s cross (1 Jn.1:7-9). Let’s decide that the Fellowship matters more than the superficial approach we’ve all been instrumental in exacerbating (cf. Jas.2:8-9). Holy God has blessed us with a spiritual capacity unto loving so much more than conceivable (cf.Ro.11:33). Bless the legacy of Grandmother by searching out more family…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Church Decline” G. Ward

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” 2 Timothy 4:3

Perhaps you haven’t noticed this at your local worship center, but I have; where are all the people? It’s a sort of “peek a boo” kind of relationship (now you see me, now you don’t). There are so many estimations on why this has become so pervasive and all perhaps are with merit. The word of God however has prophetically portrayed the cause of man (self-centeredness, cf.2 Ti.3:1-4) as the main culprit. Moreover, the response to salvation’s call mostly goes unchecked, that is without an intensive, systematic study of God’s word that implores us to not miss opportunity in discipleship and fellowship (Heb. 10:25). Perhaps you’re inconsistent? Is it because the vivaciousness of service time diminished? Maybe the music ministry lacks nuance? We could go further but here’s resolve, seek Truth (Jn.14:6) alone. Inconsistency breeds doubt and the facts state HE (Jesus) never stopped loving you (Ro.5:8). Love HIM back by faith and commitment.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Occultic” G. Ward

“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3:3

Twenty years ago one million men convened under the guise of a bigoted leader who opposes (condescendingly so) both Christianity and Judaism (cf. Ps.1:1, Pr.13:20, 1 Co.5:11,15:33). His hatred is blatantly appealing to great masses because of its social relevance mixed with great reminder of past disparity imposed on the Black race. His rhetoric has been proven inaccurate and harmful furthering more divide.

Here’s my issue. Why are church buses loading for such a journey? The answer is clear; it’s aspirational belief vs. unwavering faith. Faith (unadulterated) relies on Holy God’s word which indiscriminately loves mankind. Farrakhan’s pejorative usage of “White devils” to portray the White race forgets that their self-imposed messiah (believed by the Nation of Islam to have been God in the flesh) Wallace Fard Muhammad had the physical appearance of a White man which leads any person of normalcy to believe he ultimately hated himself. Hey Farrakhan, you don’t exactly look as if you just arrived from Africa on yesterday…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Eye of Contentment” G. Ward

“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5

All that I anticipated for my life in my youth never manifested. I believe my aspirations were beneficial for society and me. I could blame circumstances and people and wouldn’t be too far off the mark, but things changed and people forgot. I’ve discovered since then that although earthen things are ever evolving, Holy God remains. One aspirational goal never realized was joy in the midst of any circumstance along with a Genuine Companion who would prioritize me over anything (cf. Mt.11:28-30, Rev.3:20)…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Faith Rules” G. Ward

“But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and whatever is not from faith is sin.” Romans 14:23

Squabbles in the faith society denies peace and love for aspiring believers. Our humanity, upon being disgruntled, desires venting frustration unto any who will listen. Selfishly our conscience becomes unaware to the more excellent premise in denying ourselves (Mt.16:24) but more rendering defense (and this defense wants so badly to impart perspective that it may include embellishment).

Victims to watching a people of faith unconstrained is unattractive (cf. Mt.5:13-16). Furthermore it lends improper credence to a personal, potential pursuit for an aspiring believer because they’ve never been pointed towards “All Sufficiency” (i.e. Holy God) yet witnessed the buffoonery of man (exacerbating hypocrisy). Father, please forgive me…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Idioms on Steroids” G. Ward

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12

 

You’ve heard it a gazillion times, “Guns don’t kill people, people kill people!” Question; Oregon Mom of the killer at America’s most recent mass killing; why so many guns and why are they all staying loaded (according to your recent post)? Is she and others with a plethora in weaponry (locked and loaded) in some kind of imaginative western (movie, that is) forged in a canyon with bad guys all around, while the other 99% of us haven’t seen those bandits?  All of my conservative (politically) friends are presumptively assessing this kind of questioning as hyperbole that incites potential gun control. I say hogwash! Moreover, forget about your political conservativism and become theologically conservative (and no they are not the same, cf. Mk. 12:17) gaining both sympathy and empathy for the victims of this heinous crime. Furthermore, if that was your child gunned down, wouldn’t that be your question?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “On the Road Again” G. Ward

“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Most citizens in earth for these times don’t/won’t relate to the interrogation of their own sin sickness. It’s due primarily to the comparatives given man. He’s more exposed to heinous crime and socially reprehensible acts because technology allows viewership therein. How then is it possible to genuinely contrast my “white lies” to mass murder? When I power off my cell phone, computer and television to examine what should be most important to me (my Heavenly Father talking to me); HE interrogates my soul (cf.Ps.139:23-24) and with HIS sufficient grace given me, my immediate response is “I’ll trust YOU” even though it convicts…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Spiritual Remuneration” G. Ward

 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” ⁴ Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favor, but as what is due. ⁵ But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.” Romans 4:3-5

Life is with great difficulties. Formulatively it deepens and widens as resolve appears far off; comparable to being encapsulated in a pit. This pit portrayal has no one passing by to throw a lifeline. There’s an incessant silence, yet the victim cries out. Their pitiful state fails to view misery as temporal. The soul eventually experiences forced disquietness to contemplate one or more of their predecessors (a Mother, Father, Aunt, Uncle or Neighbor) who exercised in great faith amidst many difficulties while remaining faithful to Holy God’s Faithful vigil unto those HE loves (cf. Ps. 121:1-5).

While it may seem too familiar (misery, that is), we must realize many who traveled the road before us endured; not because of their own strength, but implicit trust in a Worthy Master.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Progressive Regression” G. Ward

“Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.” Jeremiah 29:7

We’ve now grown accustomed to hearing of mass shootings in America. Our “what a shame” statements offer no resolve, but cares deeply about the condition of man. We all know of a propensity for great violence but tolerate little to no mechanism in preventive maintenance. That’s become the job for our legislators. While the 435 + 100 argue over prudence in gun control, our momentary grief for others may be the complacency that makes us next (in victimization). Viewing tragedy in abstract is shameful. As Holy God’s mercy prevails for both the just and unjust, calamity and destruction visits in the same. If you could ask the nine killed in Oregon (presumed believers in Christ) they would echo the same.

Happy Friday!