Today’s Thought “Mr. Ed, A Talking Horse” G. Ward Acts 10:42 “And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.” As a kid I enjoyed watching the television series Mr. Ed (1961-1966). Mr. Ed (the talking horse) would only talk to his owner (Wilbur). On many occasions Wilbur was caught in what appeared to be talking to himself causing great disturbance in other’s perception of him. Mr. Ed never thought to vindicate Wilbur from appearing absolutely loco to others, but would often challenge his owner (void of an audience) with great perspective concerning life’s complexities. The believer is mostly without a barn occupied with a talking horse, but is with the Perfect Lamb of God who holds every answer and perfect submission thereunto will ensure His presence that vindicates without waver (cf. Jn.1:29). Moreover and finally, the Savior who accepted my repentance desires to do the same for those feeling less than, so He’s called me to this holy ambassadorship that I can proclaim mine own unworthiness apart from His glorious righteousness that was imputed unto me. Each day, along with my thanking Him for His graciousness towards me, I ask Him to make His appointment(s) vivid, so this joy I have may be the presentation for those needing hope (cf. Isa.6:8).

Today’s Thought “Gentle Masculinity” G. Ward Ephesians 6:4 “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” I’m reminded of a Father (deceased 2008) who embodied the essence in understanding the necessity to instruct with a great sense in urgency that would help govern a legacy delivering boys onto men. The respectability began before adolescence in that my Dad maintained great respect for us as reciprocated by his children. The relationship would naturally produce desired compliance in righteousness that most certainly didn’t want to disappoint. My Father did the best he could stemming from gargantuan love unrelenting that included hugs even after we bore children. The component of true peace left out growing up was spiritual; not refusal to identify need for a Savior, but a lack in knowledge in how to get there (Ro.10:14-15), that included periodic visits to worship and great prayer before meals, etc. The things of religion (even moral activity) are most certainly not ever a safeguard (*Rev.21:5-8). Missing my Dad with tears…

Today’s Thought “Throwback Thursday” G. Ward Romans 1 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. All that America has become (good and bad) is what I wouldn’t trade for another parcel of land. The Statue of Liberty has been honored as America’s symbol that welcomed earth’s citizenry as the lady carries the Declaration of Independence in her left hand and the first sentence indicates the hospitality from its inhabitants (We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.). Another thesis statement appears on the statue itself (“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”) and these recent years has witnessed its citizens arguing the entirety of its origin. Man’s intent/purpose is entirely inarguable. He’s positioned in earth to do the Father’s will. The exclusivity given is without relent, yet maintains an inclusivity for any desiring “true freedom.” Origins of sorts are proven idealism when plans from man exist apart from God ordained guidance promoting great sectarian/divisive disorder forever evolving…

Today’s Thought “Back to School” 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 55 years ago and we’re still whining? Believers of old didn’t allow oppression and societal ills of sorts to penetrate their homes, instead they modeled how essential prayer is/was. Many today would argue people of old weren’t bombarded with the magnitude of work obstacles, along with familial lack in support (I’d rather you keep technological advancement distant from man’s progression in self-righteousness.). Only the cigarette ad states authoritatively, "You’ve come a long way baby,” mankind continues to be on a slippery slope (Jn.15:5b). Those growing closer to implicit follow-ship in being God-ruled, understand that outsourcing parental responsibility to lead and exemplify what prayer and bible study should represent is ordained (for you and I) by Holy God (Deut.6:4-7). Allowing what’s become both a polytheistic and political movement’s dictation (i.e. what was never meant for our spiritual conformity) denies our children their God given right to pause in prayer. Unbelief awaits government regulations (particularly in our time of Covid-19) limiting our assembly even; only “big church” (i.e. not pertaining to size, but mentality) is with that worry, because the rest of us won’t be moved (while compliant). The faithful class are more in touch than ever before (can you say Zoom, Periscope, Conference Call, etc.?).

Today’s Thought “Spiritual Pep Rally” G. Ward Romans 8:26 “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” The sufferings of mankind can be relative to great distress that blinds both sensibility and good judgment. Faith in the Most High may continue even while anxiety becomes the cup to consume, but often times requires great assistance to stand and if no cane or crutch is nearby, collapse may ensue. The Lord’s faithfulness insists that we saturate ourselves with that which is written and to treat those words as a life document. It’s then that we’ll remember how to rest assured of His lovingkindness that seeks to shelter us from uncertainty. His love is astounding and no matter the extremity presented, I’ll trust Him…

Today’s Thought “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” G. Ward John 15:7 “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Jesus’ persistence in generosity desires every man to know Him as “The Vine” and mankind as branches therein. This agricultural terminology remains familiar to the world He loves, while insisting the science that recognizes nutrients spread throughout those capillaries (i.e. branches) keeps them alive (and if there’s no dependence or disruption occurs in the flow, the branch dies). When we are expressive of a self-governance, particularly when exercising with a pseudo allegiance (by calling Him Lord – Owner), Heaven won’t hear. Moreover and finally, our dictates away from the Word of life (*Jn.1:1-5, 14) given us to follow (often referred to as prayer) are violated when desire trumps reverence thereunto (Lk.6:46)...

Today’s Thought “California Wildfire” G. Ward Nehemiah 1:4 As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven. Lightning appears to be the culprit to the burning in California that’s impacted hundreds of thousands in acreage along with tens of thousands having been called to evacuate their homes. In an election season it matches importance with all the political reporting rather than supersede it. These United States won’t pause for kindly adherence to those citizens afflicted because unity goes compromised. Instead our compassion (particularly as we view these realities on our flat screen televisions amidst our posh surroundings) is limited to the next sensationalistic storyline soon to compel us to echo sentiments of “Those poor people!” Biblical mercy given more compels a halt that addresses Holy God immediately and includes desired directives from Heaven as to how I can become most effective therein.

Today’s Thought “The Waiting Room” G. Ward Isaiah 38:20 “The LORD will surely save me; So we will play my songs on stringed instruments All the days of our life at the house of the LORD.” Hezekiah was granted fifteen additional years of life after a grim prognosis. Upon hearing from the Prophet Isaiah concerning his demise, he prayed; asking the Lord to remember his own unwavering devotion to the Lord. We see a similar plight of devotion from both Hannah (1 Sa. 1:9-11) and Jabez (1 Chr.4:9-10). All of our supplications unto the Lord must remember His faithfulness; particularly when/if sufferings continue to prevail (and they will). Our aim onto Holy God’s answer to prayer should portray His delight (*Matt.6:9-10). A life void of sufferings only begins when we depart from the earth (Rev.21:3-4), until then we ought shout victory for His presence won’t forsake you and me upon our demand of HIM as Lord.

Today’s Thought “Ball of Confusion” G. Ward Jude 1:7 “In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.” You say this, I say that is indicative of opposites and while it remains argumentative with potential dismissal by estimating your opponent as just being stupid, there’s always “Truth” in the middle. Pride diffuses truth’s investigation and if a quest for it (i.e. truth) begins, the pursuer will discover no creativity on their part is needed because it will stand alone (particularly when you’re convinced of its merit). While Heaven is a goal for most of mankind (presumably theirs because they’ve been good enough – *Isa.64:6, Mk.10:18), forgetfulness of Hell has become allusion perpetuated and no matter how many argue that a Merciful God won’t allow for those trying at morality real hard to go there, really haven’t searched out that which is written for our benefit (historically). Forget the doom of it all, by consideration of today’s opportunity to avoid destruction through perfect submission to Him as New Owner of the life He gave (*Ac. 3:19)…

Today’s Thought “Designated A Lifeguard” G. Ward Jude 1:22-23 ”And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; and to still others, show mercy tempered with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh.” Mediocrity is never to be mentioned as to the things of the Spirit. God’s holy word is the highest achievement for man’s pursuit, calling for diligence; that is unwavering and absolute adherence from us and insistence from us to model, then teach what it says (Heb.5:12). Men have often approached the script of God with what they feel it says seemingly causing breakage unto the church universal; meaning there may be components of truth to what they say but not entirely absolute. This kind of erroneous teaching may seem harmless until it establishes an audience. The wholeness of what error presents becomes absolutely explosive and if you’ve witnessed anything explosive it’s always spectacular to view, but if you stand too close, you too will catch on fire. Our teaching cannot be the unspiritual rhetoric that’s become so acceptable for our times. It must be willing to stand alone, in that it’s a singular message of hope, precluding there is no other to consider (Ac.4:12). Moreover and finally, our being messengers, must never think we’re alone in sharing truth’s demand. HE commissioned us, whereas the guarantee of HIS presence won’t relent.

Today’s Thought “Multiplication Tables” G. Ward Matthew 6:9 “This manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.” Years ago children everywhere were more aware of their spiritual connection through reciting both what was deemed “The Lord’s Prayer” (although actual tutelage for every disciple) and the 23rd Psalm. These both were begun in the mindsets of young people to increase the greatest awareness in approaching God with the utmost respect and then depending on Him in everything. Moreover, it caused a subliminal consciousness that wouldn’t violate courses in activity unbecoming, because most perceived the Lord as near. Perhaps if these beginnings given us were primary to the young people of today, their chance at peace would heighten and since we’ve been guilty in exacerbating unrighteousness before those younger, let’s agree today to cut the umbilical cord of indecision to make all our lives abundantly aware of His forgiveness once our repentance is made known (*Jude 1:23).

Today’s Thought “Changing the Narrative” G. Ward Revelation 22:18-19 I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book. Many read into such passages as belonging to the cultist; it also however belongs to the misinterpreter, whether blatant or frivolous. Final Authority’s demand for any who believe doesn’t insist you and me insert every verb, noun and article from the King James Version (translated 1611, therefore Peter, Paul, John, etc., didn’t own a copy) in reciting the words from God, but implicit adherence to what it says (particularly as you die to who you’ve been – 1 Cor.6:19-20). This chapter very particularly is the culmination of the story written for man’s guidance that grants him heaven, not our verbal attempts of insinuation when presumed good people (*Mk.10:17-22, Ro.3:10) die. The contingency is not who attends church regularly, to then know all the attributes of the Savior, but whether or not Heaven knows you (Matt.7:21-23, **Rev.20:15).

Today’s Thought “A Struggle Within” G. Ward Hebrews 12:1-2 “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” I’m really without excuse in not being the best example for most to view. I grew up in a time where many adults were responsible in lending tremendous peace and kindness in their own lives, demonstrating how to disquiet strife’s entry. It proves how influential the war introduced early by a worldly standard more perpetuates indecision on which side to pursue, a conflict of two natures; one is acceptance of a natural progression and the other, a spiritual. I’ve not rehearsed the latter well enough. I must rely first on the greatest example found in my Savior and second, thank Him for such wonderful presentation of great friends and family who taught the essence of perseverance amidst foolish indulgence as acceptable in our culture. We’ll all need great encouragement from the Almighty’s words so as to embody faith’s measurement given by HIM (Ro.12:3) and the more concession from us, reveals love for HIM.

Today’s Thought “Just Checking In” G. Ward Gal.6:10 “So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” Since I’ve come to know the Lord, my life has experienced tremendous joy, in that I never thought the love obtained had room enough for more. It’s comparable to having more than one child; when another is birthed, one’s heart is enlarged. My contemplations lead me towards those individuals who loved me back so very greatly. They too were products of His mercy and the accompaniment offered from them sought to inquire almost each day concerning my well-being, up to absolute recall with every uncertainty, suffering and triumph I shared. They knew my family, although no physical introduction was ever made and prayed their surrender in the Lord just as if there was personal, biological association. Many were invited to rest with Holy God and their time of departure yet hurts deeply. The Lord’s sufficiency however is good; HE keeps expanding my heart with others AVAILABLE onto great encouragement; I’m forever grateful… May your lives remember, HE never stopped loving you.

Today’s Thought “Exit Interview” G. Ward Romans 13:11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The exit interview generally happens in professional employment upon an employee having expressed a career change with departure in mind. The employer responsible for such an interrogation seeks to extract perceived opportunity for company improvement from the employee soon to depart and quite naturally this same interview wouldn’t be granted one insubordinate, but can include petition onto the employee to remain (e.g. by offering salary increase, perks, etc.). The suggested feedback (from the employee) is generally regarded as profitable considering the integrity from the employee was honorably felt. The same is relative to our position in Christ. Some will be dishonorably discharged from the presence of God (Matt.7:21-23), due to lack in altruism unto the guidelines the Owner instituted and there will be others that pressed through difficult days (whereby many either lost focus or operated in an unrighteous self-governance). Without waver and while ridiculed by many resistant to order, the one granted a final interview maintained spiritual perseverance through avoidance in reprimand (by the Owner) that could have included permanent dismissal, but the Owner spared him through perks unimaginable (*Ro.11:33-36) as they sought conformity to the best righteous standard; confessing its superiority (*1 Cor.2:9)…

Today’s Thought “Batter Up!” G. Ward Psalm 119:42 “So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me, for I trust in Your word.” The perspective in God as Lord can appear a lonely one in that our surroundings each day visualize a governance unto themselves while yet claiming “I know Him” (Ps.73:1-17). Moreover, your position to remain in the statutes intimidates another without diligence in the same that may cause them disdain for you upon your presence. You’ll need to be reminded that Jesus will stick with you closer than any brother, along with knowing He’s always on the main line; while (in the same moment) never being satisfied with contemplations of them left behind (cf. 1 Thess.4:13-18). The lack of deference found in man will soon be over and as the children’s story ends “they (i.e. in this case, “we”) went on to live happily ever after (Ro.8:18); not because we’ve been good enough, but His grace remains Sufficient.

Today’s Thought “Entirely Unavailable” G. Ward 1 Corinthians 6 19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. How many have observed how politics formulate more divisiveness than continuity among our nation’s citizenry? The immediacy in some mindsets are now blaming the right or the left, rarely to realize how their individual contribution to purport hatred (I.e. merely harboring ill feelings about something or someone – and as love is with category...) perpetuates evil. While it’s a great exercise in civility, voting for any candidate is not a panacea guaranteeing tranquility and whereas blasphemy’s definition for the believer may be two-fold in that every time we misrepresent God’s glory and holiness (I.e. denying His sole power in heaven and earth through lack of winning souls – indiscriminately), along with causing others to blaspheme His Name because our lack in proper governance more pervades on others to “get right” while we run to other sources for resolution (*Ro.2:17-24). When most or any are familiar with our politics (along with, or preeminent to) over implicit trust in the Lord, we’re blasphemous. Passion for Christ is love for His creation; always believing and forever hopeful, understanding I was once lost...

Today’s Thought “My Mind Is Made Up!” G. Ward Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. It’s been said that kindness goes a long way and the real test for such an attitude will soon be revealed when oppositional forces lack joy; whereas you become the closest victim of their rage (cf. Eph.6:12). Our spiritual, reciprocal duty must recall the most significant impartation given us through Christ. His merciful pardon refuses to wait on mankind’s predisposition towards self-righteousness; HE alone beholds the righteous standard for all to follow, with tender mercy that absolutely forgives when any will turn from sin and self (Matt.16:24). I can tell you on today that my conformity to the aforementioned is needed immediately and I pray you’ll interrogate the soul provided you in the same.

Today’s Thought “I’m A Big Boy Now!” G. Ward Psalm 119:9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. Mankind, when established by Who their Maker is, can be equated with that of a forest. It may begin with sporadic sprouts of what seemingly is nothing to become very tall trees. We can all testify to their thriving vigorously without someone watering them or pruning their branches that allow growth; their reliance also is with their Maker. Altogether and most importantly is not so much a contrast between animate vs. inanimate, but to know that all creation should be subject to their Maker and HE is the Grantor of growth (cf. Matt.5:16, Phil.1:6). One is soon to become many as obedience thereunto is chieftain (Lk.14:23).

Today’s Thought “Where Shall I Go?” G. Ward Psalm 119:8 “I shall keep Your statutes; Do not forsake me utterly!” If I were to best convey to another what the presence of the Lord allows my life to experience I would say, “It’s a return unto a newborn state, whereas Holy God comforts me and feeds me until I absolutely want no more, allowing great rest as HE watches over me. Why at any moment (in view of such care) would I opt out of such matchless grace? My lack in pursuit of His statutes is most certainly the culprit (cf. Ps.1:1-2). My spiritual contemplations however, rejoices in the perfect reconciliation afforded me by Holy God’s reprieve of my foolish ways; particularly when mine own insistence first is sorrowful over my straying from His presence and secondly desires a return (via a reverent plea) as a child of the Most High (*Ac.3:19).