Today’s Thought “Mr. Congeniality” G. Ward

“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.” Philippians 2:1-2

Intolerance for the believer is not permitted in view of what grace demands. The Word of God is chock-full of saints plagued with selfish plights, arrogance and weak will. It serves as great warning for those of us ascribing to emulate the Savior’s walk, not looking to any other source for salvation (Ac.4:12).

Unfortunately and defensively, the views of man afford him sight unto categorical mayhem, delineating (through self-perception) his own sin as miniscule (comparatively). The view of the Master must become the aim of man; who is without partiality. HIS love for us is ever encompassing and patiently awaits our surrender (2 Pe.3:9). It’s best however when man becomes impatient with his own refusal in acknowledging that Holy God’s way is proven throughout the generations, making life’s calculations (according to humanity) that to which has been practiced unsuccessfully thousands of years before (cf. Eccl.1:9).

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Anticipated Visit” G. Ward

“Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He became twelve, they went up there according to the custom of the Feast.” Luke 2:41-42

Jesus the child grew as any child would. His parents however were selected to bear “God in the flesh” because their dedication to Holy God’s commands were unquestionably followed. The very practice of holiness was apparently the impartation unto their children (Pr.22:6). Parental insistence towards worship (more than on days they attend Temple) demands a devotion to associate with like-minded ones, enabling children to view great examples of what it means to know Holy God (cf. 2 Co.6:14). This is not to say a communal insistence similar to the Quaker’s reasoning was the Master’s intent (Deut.6:4-7, 1 Jn.4:4). Viewing non-exemplary ones is also a great and needed instruction unto children.

Theology yet remains the eternal science necessary to ensure that the babies are afforded opportunity in joy and peace. The discipline and parameters given unto parents rearing children must never seek to outsource a God-imposed responsibility. This generation of parents must extinguish a perceived notion of a sociological bar mitzvah for their children at any age and raise them righteously until they leave (prayerfully and directly after Pomp & Circumstance plays on the loud speaker at their high school graduation).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “You Asked for It!” G. Ward

“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Romans 13:1

 

One hit wonders (musically) are/have been remarkably etched in the mindsets of many. Altogether, this enigma is with gargantuan transcendence vocationally. We’ve now witnessed it with our national politics. Surgeons and entertainers are now bucking for the highest political office in our land; unable to perpetuate the historical stance of what has been politically acceptable.

I’m reminded of one of the greats (musically) of the 1960’s, Tony Clarke’s song, The Entertainer. The lyrics to this song shed transparency to our current political exposure (observe the first stanza): You made 'em laugh, and you left 'em feelin' glad. You made 'em cry, and you left 'em feelin' sad. They've seen you perform in so many plays; But they're not to know you're unhappy today, So they'll never know, go on with the show 'Cause, You're the entertainer, the entertainer. You're the entertainer, the entertainer…

Whether or not you ascribe to the hyperbole of our political fanfare seated on the donkey or the elephant is certainly not my hopeful conveyance on today. Amazingly however, we’re yet begging for a newer king as our resolve (cf. 1 Sa.8:1-7) when the King of all kings awaits our surrender to HIS rule.

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Closer than Close” G. Ward

“Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3

Establishing a pattern involves great practice, and when routine has become an individual’s regard for an extended period in time, breaking the fallow ground of self-absorption, enabling new growth involves industrial machinery, laying the shovel on a higher shelf. Many of my analytical friends are now questioning whether routine is perceivably bad. If a believer’s (self-imposed) routine can contrast (closely) observance and practice of Holy God’s commands for their lives, they’re practicing lordship over a life belonging to the Master. The common expression of life being your own to do what you please is soon to be revealed as untrue (Ps.90:10, 1 Co.6:19-20). “If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my struggle I will wait until my change comes” (Job 14:14).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Gardening Tips” G. Ward

“Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.” Revelation 2:5

The garden of man is cultivated best not by rake or plow, but Holy God must be the Master Gardener. The weeding (for the garden) necessitates surrender unto a proven, perfect control, without insistence of personality indifference, along with human perspective (cf. Isa.55:8-9). Experiencing growth in the garden maintains dependence on a spiritual photosynthesis; the SON must shine through the mediocrity of man (Mt.16:24).

The beauty of each morning presented, offers chance worth pursuing (La.3:23), indifferent from the unforeseen of yesterday’s events. Determining to get it right can often be a huge, first mis-step (*Eph.2:8-9). We’ve been on that diet plan hundreds of times before with very little success. The cultivating force necessary, offers plans of intentionality, which includes planned prayer and uninterrupted study of Holy God’s word. While awaiting a harvest, be sure to understand that the seed implanted is without an ability to construe variation in produce, it’s more meant to give away (indiscriminately) because there’s so much (Mt.5:16).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “A Bitter Pill” G. Ward

“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

 

Hopes, along with aspirational goals of heaven’s reward sound loudly as we witness demise for so many. It becomes ever encompassing to hear “Homegoing” vs. funeral. Moreover, the pervasive “rest in peace” has unequivocally become “rest in heaven.” The question on today is concerning the infrequency of proposed believer-ship; what then is the qualifier in this great reward? Is it really death unto my perspectives, opinions, claimants of I can do whatever I please and Holy God taking me as I am, without expectation of total transformation (*2 Co.5:17)? May I persist in lack of intimacy with HIM exacting prayers that extract great gifts in material and physical deliverance, treating Him as a genie in a bottle (Pr.1:24-29)?  Is my familiarity with His words as it had been many years before (Ps.1:1-2, 119:11)?

Altogether, must the insistence of man perpetuate blatant disregard for his original intent (cf. 2 Pe.3:9)? More pronouncement of death is inevitable and may preclude your ability to hear it; WILL YOU QUALIFY (cf. Mk.10:17-27)?

Happy Friday!

 

Today’s Thought “Barry Manilow Songs” G. Ward

“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” Proverbs 18:22

“But I love her” said the young man who found love for the first time unto parents who’s condescending reply maintained his youthfulness as a blockade to good judgment. Although this young man had both a philosophy in monogamy, along with a propensic romantic ideology, his parents alluded to a potential plethora of choices for his future. In other terms, “sow your wild oats,” or prostitute yourself until finding a perfect match (whatever that means).

Our experiences in bad decision making shouldn’t assume some following will suffer in the same. We must prepare to walk alongside young people, rendering the best perspective available – Holy God’s Word. We shouldn’t impose our past imperfects on man before absolute resolve (cf. 2 Ti.3:16-17) is given; but more consider our past imperfects as a catalyst to be heard without implication in having attained superiority (Phil.3:12-13). Amazingly, many young seek guidance on moral terms, while some insist on illicit behaviors as a more prudent exploration (2 Ti.3:1-4)…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “No Other Aim” G. Ward

 “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” 2 Peter 1:2

Foundationally and principally, true believer-ship longs for perfect guidance from Holy God. Their souls seek agreement with the words for man He provided and when circumstances arise (of varied kinds), it’s weighed against what He’s already declared. Believers know that knowledge is never unilateral of surrender to His lordship and no matter the progress in intimacy with Him, we never pinnacle in truth (cf.Ps.139:23-24).

Worldly standards however, demands expertise, boasts in great experience and insists on notoriety from men (cf. 1 Co. 2:1-3). As the rawness of one rising in the morning is presented only unto those closest (i.e. before cosmetics and showering), so must our presentation be unto Holy God throughout the day given. He’ll clothe us, making His own presentable for every good work (Phil.1:6).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “My Own Terms” G. Ward

“Then all the congregation lifted up their voices and cried, and the people wept that night. All the sons of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron; and the whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness!” Numbers 14:1-2

Most modern day spirituals sung exact a hierarchical positioning over Holy God. Some stanzas include commands unto Him that twist His words reminding everyone of the promises of deliverance from economic woes and romantic impropriety, sought and caused by their own selfish desire, demanding immediate reprieve. Moreover, then there’s the illustrious slogan that forgot He’s to be preeminent to any and every thing by exacerbations of “when everything else fails” syndrome.

We’ve become so terribly accustomed to juxtaposing things and one another that contemplation of our humanity over His eternality lies in compromise. Let’s agree that “Today” given is the new mercy presented in getting it right (Ps.118:24, La.3:23)…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Don’t Take It Personal” G. Ward

“And he laid hold of the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; and he threw him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he would not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed; after these things he must be released for a short time.” Revelation 20:2-3

We’ve implicated Satan’s work at most occurrences in evil, without recall of Holy God’s omnipresence (while the devil is not). Sure, he (the devil) is with tens of thousands of demons, but how might that compare to an average city’s population? He’s referred to as the “power of the air” (Eph.2:2) because as the father of lies, his deception is better felt by a horrid influence that seeks conformity unto unrighteousness. Proportionately, he reaches more not through personal attack, but through the deception of nations. His success is questionable with many, but people of the Word (Jn.1:1-2, 14) remain far too intimate (cf. Heb.11:6) to be impacted by this DEFEATED foe. When Truth (Jn.14:6) is worn as a priceless necklace, all my verbiage seeks to praise my Redeemer, not the evil one.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Stress Kills” G. Ward

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

I’ve been known as the Rock of Gilbraltar exists; perceivably, I cannot be moved. While this is entirely untrue, my physicality in times of difficulty conveys impenetrable. I regret this paradigm given, but implore every man towards understanding the frailty of man. Difficulties occur often for everyone and foolish analyzing for the beholder can/will perpetuate facades of strength in others, when actuality in mindset wreaks in pain.

Altogether, taking on varied scenarios of worry in believer-ship, becomes the opportunity to release it to the Burden Bearer (Mt.11:28-30 , Phil.4:6, 1 Pe.5:7). It makes very little to no difference how others perceive your crisis, but more celebrates trouble as not lasting (Ro.8:18)…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Integrity, Questionable” G. Ward

Then the word of the Lord came to me saying, “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and say to those shepherds, ‘Thus says the Lord God, “Woe, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flock?” Ezekiel 34:1-2

 

I sat in the pulpit, grieving profusely (as a child would), waiting to preach my Father’s funeral. I begged the Lord for the courage; my hero had fallen. It happened suddenly; a quick diversion. Mine eyes gazed upon the pastor’s shoes. They were unlike all I viewed. It’s not as if my familiarity with fine shoes was limited, but these had wealth written on its sole. I then began to view the magnificence of the structure (edifice). It could seat thousands comfortably. The interior was plush, containing all the bells and whistles. My soul was captivated with the message given me for all yet living (Lk.16:19-31). It conveys a synoptic proposal for every man to inhabit praise unto his Creator via perfect obedience while he can (cf.1 Jn.5:3).

My critique of the bishop’s apparel, along with temples adorned magnificently, seeks to more empathize with many (with meager means) who may cross the threshold of our structures to contemplate their having been left behind (cf. Ro.10:13)…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “A Treasure Found” G. Ward

 ^“The king went up to the house of the Lord and all the men of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the priests, the Levites and all the people, from the greatest to the least; and he read in their hearing all the words of the book of the covenant which was found in the house of the Lord.” 2 Chronicles 34:30

There’s a real vitality in children and youth ministry. It’s the assurance that the message of the cross continues after our departure. It (children and youth ministry) however, must remain the accentuation of intimacy (in the Spirit realm, cf. Deut.6:4-7) promoted from home by parents first.

The boy Josiah became king at eight years old. There had to be foundation that enabled his insistence that the inhabitants of the land to which he governed, abide in the Lord. Do you think that being an excellent Sunday school student enabled his conviction? As believers, we must first be expedient in exemplary leadership with ANY and ALL young person(s), then, like Young King Josiah, read and decipher (without presupposition) the words from Holy God, disabling mediocrity (*cf. Judg.2:8-10).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Off to Work I Go” G. Ward

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12

You’ve seen it many days, the disgruntled employee that seeks to make everyone’s day miserable. Although we’ve not been guilty in reciprocating the same attitude, our avoidance of this individual(s) is construed by Holy God as foolish reciprocation. Jesus our Lord sought/seeks every broken soul troubled about past imperfects, along with current lack in resolve from both mean-spirited and immoral contributors (*cf. Eph.5:1-2). Our superficial salutations unto the troubled are far more perceived as wrongfully attitudal by those disgruntled and while appearing to be an “olive branch” extended, speaks volumes of our hatred and unforgiveness in others. Rather than assessing the dysfunction, try the loving involvement shown you at Calvary’s cross. Begin with fervent prayer, then with peaceable intentionality, attack with mercy without expectancy (cf. Jn.3:17-19).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “When Redemption Begins…” G. Ward

“Give ear to my words, O Lord, Consider my groaning. Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to You I pray. In the morning, O Lord, You will hear my voice; in the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; No evil dwells with You.” Psalm 5:1-4

When trouble ensues for anyone it demands reprieve. That moment can be so lonely and dark no matter the company. For so many, recognition of that Great Power grandmother talked about becomes an only option; comparably to experiencing excruciating pain for an extended period of time – one might consider cow urine to relieve the discomfort (cf. Pr.1:24-29). The pervasiveness in Jeremiah’s message found at 33:3 (“Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.”) is with contingency. It’s no indifferent from any promises of God. The Almighty discerns true repentance; therefore, if the reprieve sought is with vows to never repeat the offense that promoted the despair is without future consideration of the Mighty Deliverer’s control of their lives, “WON’T HE DO IT?” Probably not.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “What A Wonderful World” G. Ward

Then God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit after their kind with seed in them”; and it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit with seed in them, after their kind; and God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:11-12

Louis Armstrong’s recording (1967) of “What A Wonderful World” is perhaps the most significant song for my life. The lyrical content speaks of the magnificence in creation, substantiating Holy God’s delineation of a most pleasant environment for His highest creation – man (Ge.1:27-28).

As we endeavor Springtime, the season for the first appearing of greenery, we’d do well to remember our responsibility as unchanged in view of the Master Ecologist’s assignment given man. On today, I’m so very proud of my wife of 31 years, who finally sought gardening as a hobby by planting tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage and greens, as a more excellent contribution. Now if I can get her to cut the grass…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “5 Mile Walk” G. Ward

“My son, give attention to my wisdom, Incline your ear to my understanding; that you may observe discretion and your lips may reserve knowledge.” Proverbs 5:1-2

Instruction at the hand of seasoned adults unto children is often without the transparency that leads to conformity. Rarely will the adult admit pitfalls and the illustrious triumphs experienced are without witnesses. The magnificence in storylines allows the adult’s perpetuation in delusional grandeur, while the child listens (respectfully) in horror and unbelief.

Transparency admits no matter the age, vulnerabilities exist. Moreover, it invites a better Controller in view of a furthered propensity in sin. It speaks of an unattainable damage control without the Lord (Jn.15:5), warning others to only follow the Jesus in me (1 Co.11:1). I know many of you are tempted with the foolish, embellished recall in journeying 5 miles to school (one way), but why not admit you too were a “car rider” and an average student?

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Corrective Measures” G. Ward

“And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me.” John 16:8-10

 

Is there anyone comfortable with reprimand? Gluttony for punishment in word or action would probably be categorized as severe mental disturbance; mankind has need for positive affirmation. Although created, inherently so, with ability to pursue righteousness, we’ll often choose a presumptive, hidden agenda (Ro.3:10) and it’s seemingly proven (without contest) for our finite thinking, particularly when we fail to properly interrogate our soul and realize that calling another “liar” isn’t the way towards peace.

Righteousness sought without momentary parameter, but with an established all day pattern, never looks back in regret and truly cognizant that the Almighty never slumbers, but is at watch (cf. Mt.10:28).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Feeling Sentimental” G. Ward

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

The days are becoming shorter and my physicality lies questionable. Yes, for me older is better. Sure my capabilities have lessened, but my mind desires rest. I’m very thankful to have reached this autumn because it more reveals that all my control throughout the years promoted insatiability in reaching another pinnacle. I’m now content at the base of the mountain, looking up.

I believe this perspective of peace and contentment is worth sharing and particularly with all the youthful mountain climbers.  The actuality for the life given may reveal more years to adopt the mode of surrender and denial of self vs. believing in yourself (*cf. Phil.3:3).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Derailment” 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

What is the likelihood of you boarding a train that is bound to crash? As the morning produces new mercies, the dispensation therein is with contingency; will you yield to the Controller of life, or propose your own directives as more trustworthy (cf. Isa.55:8-9)? Aim, along with magnanimous plans are mostly rendered superficial when our humanity opts out of Divine supremacy and although one may experience years of success with endeavors sought, barrenness will soon be the outcome (cf. Mt.24:35).

There is an elemental, spiritual pursuit worth endeavoring that sheds peace and contentment that insists, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps.91:1).  I’ve not surrendered well enough to understand the discomfort in abiding in my own care, so I’ve determined to relinquish my tenancy beginning now. Thanks be to Holy God for grace.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “On Guard!” G. Ward

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Fencing, also known as sword fighting is an Olympic sport that’s been strong competition for two centuries. When a participant yields to a defensive position at the commencement of the match they shout En garde (French for "on guard”) as a warning for their perspective opponent.

Entirely misunderstood and decontextualized by so many believers is the idea Jesus sought to extinguish; that is allowing false teaching’s pervasion amidst His truth. The thief in this passage was never the Devil, it is the human imposter (cf.* Jn.10:1), presuppositionally assessing what he feels Jesus is saying (cf.2 Pe.1:20-21). Many manipulate the scriptures to impose on man horrible theorizing to exalt themselves. It’s caused many to read (without study) to then conclude that the words from Holy God is with myriads of interpretations. To that I yell, “En garde!” Again, while the Devil is with the character of a thief, Jesus referred to a humanistic robbery of a grace meant for man.

Happy Friday!