Today’s Thought “Tell HIM What You Want…” G. Ward

“But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:6

 

Have you heard it sung, “Jesus is on the main line, tell HIM what you want?” How does that contrast our being what HE created solely for HIS purpose? Since professing that HE is more than enough, what if you and I received all we wanted; would the objectivity bless others? Moreover, would the receipt of the imposed possession be shared indiscriminately (cf. Ps.24:1)? Worship extracts nothing, but gives without hesitation (Ps.34:1-2), insisting that the Most High is addressed reverently (Eccles.5:1-2). Considering His ability to take any life He’s given, along with nothing being made that HE didn’t produce, His sovereignty, omniscience and knowing my thoughts and motives (even before my contrived suppositions), my premeditative contemplations must erase all I want, pleading to be useful in His potential presentation.

Happy Friday (On the Prayer Line for Friday, While a NO SHOW on Sunday – Bless your Heart!)!

Today’s Thought “Pastoral Uncertainty” G. Ward

“Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.” Titus 3:14

Inconsistency, lacking commitment, aloof; all of these describe too great a percentage of those who frequent our local assembly weekly/weakly. Then there are those we know, having girded themselves with the catechism of the church, we know their name, the car they drive, but lacking commitment and inconsistent. Christianity is representative of new leadership demanded from any opposing traditional carnality exercised by the majority of mankind (cf. Eph.6:12). Moreover, the new position one receives mercifully, equates their stance with that of a bond-servant (i.e. available to God’s service, anywhere, anytime). Howbeit that any reference to Holy God as Supreme Controller in the life of a proposed believer pervades little to no participation in their local assembly’s ministry opportunities, but is more regarded for their political stance, civic awareness and marketplace posturing (Mt.6:21)?

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “A Pocket-Book Full” G. Ward

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

Mankind’s consumption with fiscal soundness is the practicality that may prepare for a season of debilitating medical imposition or senior adulthood, but when faced with greater dependence on others fails at calling his financial planner for a weekly report.  Our predecessors echoed the same sentiment this way, “if you don’t have health, you have nothing!” While that may be a meritorious earthly statement desirous to make the least of us question proprietary superficiality, it leaves out the greater component of access to the vault in unending riches (Ro.11:33). When/if I regard this day as my last, charitable exoneration of my storage (not entirely so) that more relies on personal eternality, cares more about bringing others along towards the river of unwavering grace (cf. Ps.90:12)…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “The Tabernacle” G. Ward

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1

F. Scott Fitzgerald stated, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.”  

Opposition of sorts can be confounding and seemingly worthy to persuade another unto one’s own opinion, but in most scenarios appears arrogant, while entirely argumentative. Many adamantly reject this idea by insisting that their truth will stand, formulating conformity from all; but this ideology discounts centuries in the avoidance therein. Mine own adorations and contrition should only insist my adherence towards perceived righteousness (Mt.5:16). How dare any capitulate in perfectionist mode, epitomizing the worst opposition unto Holy God’s Word that insists, “No one is righteous, not one” (Ro.3:10).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “More Than A Cuss Word” G. Ward

“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain.” Exodus 20:7

 

Autumn for many may represent a great love opportunity and particularly after summer’s hot and humid days promoted showering incessantly. Moreover it’s the tremendous prefacing for a most lengthy holiday season. There are many with contemplations of love that furthers potential enjoyment of every city scape appearing so festive. So the prowl begins. It more lends itself to a hunt without specificity, but more ideological. The objective is to not squash a contrived canvas etched in one’s mindset that embraces a subliminal portrait synonymous of a Norman Rockwell painting featuring them. The manifestation of their pursuit involves great conversation (cf. Mt.6:21); seeking, and then sharing similar objectives to life. If they were charged by the minute in telephone conversations, the debt incurred would finally visit full restitution in their 90’s. They’re desirous in knowing all the intimate details including ancestry along with historical accounts (cf.2 Ti.3:16-17). The affection developed becomes love.

If a love relationship with God is not an even higher pursuit, particularly after calling HIM LORD, then surely the MOST HIGH is terribly disgruntled at this one-sided, selfish, unloving, abusive relationship imposed unto one’s shallow pursuit (Lk.6:46). The husband who abuses his wife does so a number of times until a syndrome is then established. Knowing she won’t leave, but not taking that chance, flowers are soon to be delivered to her threshold, indicative of our infrequent worship (cf. Pr.1:24-28)…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Basic Provision” G. Ward

“When the queen of Sheba perceived all the wisdom of Solomon, the house that he had built, the food of his table, the seating of his servants, the attendance of his waiters and their attire, his cupbearers, and his stairway by which he went up to the house of the Lord, there was no more spirit in her.” 1 Kings 10:4-5

 

The entire world that God loves is influenced by the majestic appearances of nations with great wealth. Along with aspirations from even the poorest of nations in attaining a similar wealth, I’m wondering if they’re prepared for the economic and material insatiability that corrupts morals? Moreover, when these same (poor in contrast to the wealthy nations) encounter the unrest (political, social, etc.) soon to visit, will their resolve maintain the trait (exhibited by wealthy nations) in reckless abandonment to Holy God’s rescue, or rely on a futile practice of man’s sufficiency?

Happy Friday (You say that I know HIM, but struggle in getting to a place of worship? 1 John 5:3)!

Today’s Thought “Without Blame” G. Ward

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

 

The deeper recesses of our mindsets to never be allowed viewership from another is who we are (i.e. our judgments, perspectives, etc.). The lender of this perspective may stem from exposure to technological advancement that even allowed for some like me to watch the Vietnam War on television. When America the proud viewed media footage from that war, our presumptive arrogance was squashed as we viewed our boys under great attack by what we felt was a lesser army. These feelings from most Americans maintained a visual association whenever Vietnam was mentioned. The same media was there when some of our boy’s bodies in flag draped coffins arrived on our shores and when the war was over to see our exasperated bunch of soldiers at American airports with great crowds chanting horrid condemnation while some hurled spit upon the assumed defeat. America quickly determined that the whole of its citizenry wasn’t responsible for such acts in condemnation, even though feeling defeated and less proud. Media sensationalists yet seek to portray the worst of every controversial scenario because they know their regard as news dispensationalists will become the adoptive reality from many. Moreover, why am I (a Black man) equated with the 50-75 idiots at every protest over-turning police cars, looting stores and breaking glass along with the whole of a race representative in multi-millions? It may be who we are…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Ultimate Anarchy” G. Ward

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28

The great resolve when on fire is to stop, drop and roll. America the free is smoldering because temporary extinguishing of flames left the scene whereby embers are subject to re-ignite into an inferno. Believers hold the antidote to societal unrest. Moreover, Holy God’s desire is that we would be His “First Responders” but it appears we’re either on the side of the castigators or protestors. The blatant refusal in recall in history’s lack of follow-ship to God’s commands witnessed disparities throughout every region. Our demand for another king has been granted (cf. 1 Sa. 8:1-18) and we’re still disgruntled. We’ll never be content until reconciled to the only KING existent (Mal.3:7)…

Happy Wednesday (You say He’s your King? Midweek services are tonight, prove it.)!

Today’s Thought “Un-Professional Profession of Faith” G. Ward

 “But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.  Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops.” Luke 12:2-3

A dead church carries a false connotation of lacking vibrancy during service times. The actuality in this position is spiritually impossible (i.e. dead church). It would be comparable to referring to the mosquito as fat. The church is deemed the people of God through Christ, not a place. The church therefore is never afforded a mindset in preferential worship, but merely insists one’s own affection is given solely to the Most High. Any reversion of this intimate affection intended, propagates a “my way” position opposite of what true salvation represents. If you consider strolling an aisle-way this Sunday, be sure that the objective embraces dying to individual preference and perspective (Mt.16:24, 1 Cor.6:19-20).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Rightful Protest” G. Ward

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

Encouragement from the whole of society when one’s conviction desires Holy God’s way vs. popular messaging contrived by the unjust, can be a position in loneliness. This conviction (from believers) although righteous, negates opportunity for those trusting pursuits in eternality by wearing a sandwich board with John 3:16 plastered on both sides at a Satanist’s convention, but is best promoted one to one (cf. 1 Pe.3:15).

If the whole of society were to have a playbook of what should be regarded as moral, it would first be compilations ongoing because views are subject to change. Secondly, storage of such memorandums of understanding, would nullify ability for portable transport with a manuscript of frivolous proportion. Thirdly, there would be a lengthy war from every faction of society as to the document’s authorship. TRUTH (found esoterically in God’s Word), on the other hand is timeless (i.e. eternally relevant)! Moreover, Truth’s reliability is proven, while entirely inclusive. I’ll stand on that.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Escapism 101” G. Ward

“But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head. I was crying to the Lord with my voice, and He answered me from His holy mountain.” Psalm 3:3-4

Toils and snares in life are common to man; contrary to popular thought they’re un-avoidable. Deep meditations and chants of denial have/will never obliterate the trouble accompanying man in the earth, but may add momentary solace. On today, I celebrate varied agonizing events that’s taken place in the life given me. Had it not been for agony, how could I celebrate today’s contentment?

Considering the inevitable visitation of misery’s visit, I’m choosing in advance to hide behind my Father. While atheists and agnostics may regard this as impractical cowardice, I maintain joy in the grip Grace offers…

Happy Friday!

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

“How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word.” Psalm 119:9

Rules and more rules! Governance, politically, vocationally, locally and then my Home Owner’s Association insists I can’t paint my house pungent pink. On Sundays and Wednesdays, in my effort to build moral character, I’m more desirous to hear motivationalists than truth tellers; so please only read the benefits of knowing God on terms of euphoria. Any of these stated burdens is perhaps a horrid portion of the subliminal mindset in man that subtracts from full surrender to Christ’s righteousness.

Independence is soon to be challenged categorically if one remains upright (Ps.90:10). Our status in the heavenliest seeks to regard us as progeny belonging to Holy God. Did HIS testimonies ever delight in our being deemed as adults, or children needing guidance?

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “I’m Amazed” G. Ward

“For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8

There’s an anticipated blessed quietness understood best by older states-people that generally involves tremendous tears in recall of life’s journey. Thanksgiving is at the very helm of its intent to then invite a grievous longing for loved ones and friends who have departed. The wholeness of these contemplations (from any practical soul) must surely question one’s own departure including where eternal rest exists. There are few (Mt.7:13-14) with a blessed assurance in redemption and then others with overwhelming regret obscuring grace and mercy. The power of knowledge, particularly through Christian discipleship reveals hope, trusting not in man’s fragility but in Holy God’s love for mankind (2 Pe.3:9). The most prudent pursuit, intimacy with Christ (independent from others), is the cleft necessary in shadowing fear and doubt.

Happy Wednesday!  

Today’s Thought “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” G. Ward

Then Solomon formed a marriage alliance with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh’s daughter and brought her to the city of David until he had finished building his own house and the house of the Lord and the wall around Jerusalem.” 1 Kings 3:1

The barometer in morality for mankind concerning God’s mandates has forever been twisted to accommodate his buffooneries. He’s (i.e. man) arguably superior through eloquent defense of wrong portraying it as acceptable; understanding that every view (eloquent or not) has an audience, that very well may include millions. Search engines most certainly didn’t begin with Google. There’s always been credible people, books, periodicals, etc., to help exact truth, but a foundational demand from mankind insists on charismatic promulgations that make more kings than servants of the Most High. A better portrayal of independence in faith matters that won’t concede to popular thought grants peace on earth and joy eternal in the heavenlies…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Will Mercy Triumph Over Judgment?” G. Ward

“Nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” ! Corinthians 6:10-11

 

Intolerance is found most subjective from the redeemed because of their failure to see our own sins needing recompense. This in no way should preclude acceptance to the immorality so very pervasive in our society, but does require tutelage from us unto those participants in vile practices. Moreover it’s not to say that our disconnect from many perpetuators in unrighteousness isn’t the vilest of sins existent (i.e found in you and me). If one is a trillionaire, there’s absolutely enough to buy nourishment for any you’ll encounter (cf. Ps.24:1), but the sandwich offered needs to be given indiscriminately, contemplating with absolute recall a day to which hunger pains affected you.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “A Strong Defense” G. Ward

“Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance; and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham for our father’; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham.” Matthew 3:8-9

Disturbance is rarely anticipated. The sudden impact is the surreal experience undesired. Our hope relies on a predecessor’s stand in stalwart strength worth modeling when calamity of sorts strikes. Here lies the essence in struggle; their (i.e. our predecessors) strength personified was indicative of their own experiences, while ours commands a unique, intimate experience. Rather than reach towards an entirely unfamiliar journey found in another that seems worthy in follow-ship, seek righteousness that’s outside the scope of humanity, compelling a pursuit without regret (cf. 2 Cor.6:1-3).

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “The Chameleon” G. Ward

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23

How dare any exercise implicit trust in America’s politician. Moreover, the passion in defense of one accountable to a system of checks and balances more reveals a desire to be a Russian citizen vs. American (i.e. socialism vs. democracy). Idealism perceived hopes for the best, but there’s fallacy involved unless trust in proven-ness is exercised. Whether you ride on the donkey (democrat) or elephant (republican) means little to nothing for me, but it is disturbing that implicit faith in governance overrules a theocratic positioning for every believer. Trust in the Lord is a timeless phenomenon. What HE says and demands stands forever.

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Debacle” G. Ward

Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” ⁹ He said, “Go, and tell this people: ‘Keep on listening, but do not perceive; keep on looking, but do not understand.’ “Render the hearts of this people insensitive, Their ears dull, And their eyes dim, Otherwise they might see with their eyes,Hear with their ears, Understand with their hearts, And return and be healed.” Isaiah 6:8-10

Periodically I’m called upon to render the invocation for our local county government. It’s without a meritorious subjection from the entirety of those elected officials, but does warrant individual representatives to select (on a rotating basis) a person of preference; to which (on last evening) became my calling to fulfill. My prayer embraced our human existence, that is, created by Holy God never to misrepresent HIS standard. Contemplations of such contain forcible resolve involving greater congeniality (Ro.12:18). My supplication pleaded review to more minimize philosophical differences, along with opinion, concentrating on righteousness that emanates from any portion in recall found in God’s Word. Next scene, the meeting begins. Disgruntled citizens of sorts quickly forgot our closing standard of “In Jesus Name” whereby my personal prompting desired yelling “SECURITY”!

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “An Uncertain Tomorrow” G. Ward

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18

We’re all witness to the demise of loved ones and acquaintances who once seemed so vivacious in life. It becomes the excellent tutorial in regarding humanity with better congeniality, but soon after the festivities, including burial, our lives seek to circumvent what’s been ordinarily perceived, to rarely view routine as obstructive. There’s a greater plan disallowing lethargy of this kind; it’s uninterrupted time with the most Wonderful Savior. Endeavoring this intimacy may become difficult when calculated quantitatively, so begin with a passage from Holy God’s word, promoting meditative review. Moreover, perhaps there’s a spiritual chorus you’re familiar with? Sing that, and do so with your heart during the course of the day. It’s then that many will long for your presence (1 Pe.3:15)…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Perfunctory vs. Transformed” G. Ward

“But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.” Malachi 3:2

It seems like yesterday when we viewed the Illustrious Ella “First Lady of Song” Fitzgerald in the cassette tape commercial representing Memorex. It was 1972, the era of 3 major television stations along with 2 or three others on the UHF (Ultra High Frequencies) dial on your television set. Ms. Fitzgerald was nostalgic for ability in excellent tone, often exercising incomparably through high-pitch range that could witness the breakage of glass in “live” studio or via a Memorex cassette tape. Their slogan to adopt was, “Is it real, or is it Memorex?” Translation – While many cassette brands exist, none could match the genuine quality of their brand (i.e. Imitation vs. Real).

The truest determinant in being bought by Christ’s Sufficiency as HE takes what’s HIS and does the work of the silversmith via a burn to precious metals (indicative of the heart of man) to then cleanse him forever (therefore making him useful and effective for service) has and will always be the identifier of knowing HIM.

Happy Thursday!