Today’s Thought “HE Keeps Blessing Me” G. Ward Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Many are subject to earthly instruction with a similitude in watching a television series and when/if one isn’t familiar with the initial program it may discourage ongoing viewership; the channel turns until a program desired is with a concise presentation worthy of entertainment. A teacher’s comparability can be the equivalent of a television series and if their production deviates from the central theme, there’s lost-ness in the course study and students will drop the class. In the Spirit realm, teachers of Truth must promote teaching whereby students are sufficiently supplied with the avenue (i.e. dependence) towards highest instruction and that school is open 24/7.

Today’s Thought “This Ole Vicious World” G. Ward Ephesians 4 15 But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love. After the pandemic, what happens to the local assembly? Spiritual institutions are closing their locations currently at an alarming rate. Their financial status has greatly suffered and had their supplications answered truly invited God’s opinion as to whether the initial endeavor to build emanated from His Throne or perceived godliness has become evident. Those of us who’ve placed top priority in remaining in touch through virtual means (even daily so) are also without a boast and it too is with diminishing effect also. Congregants, some faithful and others deeply desirous await a time when we’ll be able to convene together again, even to think that will most certainly be the catalyst for change. When altruism onto precepts from the Holy One is neglected, the essential element of trust in HIM who is loving mankind is forsaken by the plans of man that gathers other men unto good gathering that resembles greater religion and that foundation is soon to collapse. When love for the Almighty’s insistence is precedent, true growth is imminent, then lasting and even others are anchored therein.

Today’s Thought “This Is Jeopardy!” G. Ward Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Won’t this passage also insist I’m depleted of ability without HIS sanctioning appropriated steps in Him (Jn.15:5)? Context is imperative here. The Apostle’s journey in service to Holy God was the subject and the churches he serviced neglected to support him so as to promote this gospel to others throughout those travels. His boast rested in the sufficiency of the Lord although the Philippians’ offerings reached him in due time to which he was grateful (1:3-5). As I tire in hearing selfish plights of empowerment, my indignation maintains my calling to fulfill and as a teacher of HIS, I must first realize that I too was once part owner of spiritual injustice that now begs for pardon to be useful in HIS today (Ps.118:24).

Today’s Thought “On Lock Down” G. Ward Psalm 40 I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me and heard my cry. He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; many will see and fear and will trust in the LORD. Perceived points in righteousness doesn’t govern the move of God. A society regarded for its existence as free, “endowed by their Creator” forgets spiritual contingency demanding implicit allegiance of the ONE who matters both now and eternity long (i.e. freedom may not be free). You and I must never think we have to awaken His Holiness to earthly dilemma, but more embody faith through obedience regardless of troubled times or peace. The vanity from man is exacerbated when denial of discipleship is forsaken and he becomes his own king. Inevitably this stance from personal pursuit will be given over to demise through despair and will recall times of warning whereby frivolity ruled (*Lk.16:25-31). Surrender now!

Today’s Thought “If Breonna Was Your Daughter?” G. Ward Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Whereas the arguments persist in what now has become perhaps the least empathetic society in America’s existence is blatant refusal from some to identify their biases seeking a sensationalistic narrative driven from media proportions versus the peaceable construct of Jesus, I as a believer am compelled to receive my news from the Kingdom of Heaven’s regard, not some preferred news network (this concerns both sides). In the sixties my brother and I were riding our bikes somewhat out of our immediate zone (to which was done often without incidence) to arrive on protest from Pro-Lifers at an abortion clinic. Our intrigue was obvious, inviting one of the protester’s explanation of what the focus was. We too were abhorrent to think anyone could consider such a heinous reality in killing babies. The songs sung as the march prevailed became quickly recognizable. That great age of protest utilized same songs with similar lyrical content although slight exchange in wording. Never did we think upon being the only Black young men of that protest danger could be imminent. Our Dad who happened to drive by, quickly admonished us to “get home!” Although our parents were militant regarding the time where Black people were with far less regard (even the north where I stemmed from), they knew some purported violence onto even those protesting without provocation. We now are witnesses to segmented proponents of second amendment rights without consideration of first amendment advocacy. Both liberals and conservatives are hunters and gun toting; but media dispensationalists’ demand that liberals want to take your guns; even up to gun sales being unusually higher at the time Obama was elected because he definitely would take your guns. The divisive government we love now exacerbate a monolithic embrace that demand we know Black people are on the end of disorder. Our families too include police, military, bad characters and civil minded ones also. We now have adopted the term “Peaceable Protest” to differentiate that of sanctioned (i.e. 1st amendment - the right of the people peaceably to assemble) vs. the buffoonery from a few (looting, throwing objects at officers, etc.). The many that never had to protest for American rights along with great disproportionate statistics impacting Black and Brown people may lack empathy regarding some who feel it necessary. When a famous football star took a knee, particularly after continuity with a friend who was a Navy Seal agreed to protest lack of equality for Blacks, the narrative was quickly changed by demanding he be recognized as disrespecting our Flag and Military. Many still HATE him for his stance just as they did the Negro Olympic track participants of 1968 and Muhammed Ali for refusal in the Vietnam War. Now many celebrate the decision to not prosecute officers in Louisville for participating in an unjust shoot out and killing of Breonna Taylor. One side demands prosecution and strong reform. Another says “defund the police” (i.e. Police Athletic Leagues for children and youth, Mental Illness Training, vs, purchasing, then stockpiling assault style weaponry, etc.) and that narrative also believes they’re saying take away funding (entirely) from officers; when the actuality of that means to invest more in community policing forsaking purchase of technological equipment considerate of potential communal anarchy. Here’s what the reasonable should understand: A young lady innocent of any crime had her house invaded by those instrumental at serving and protecting her, having listened to an order through hierarchal command that researched enough concerning Breonna to know she had nothing to do with her boyfriend from 2 years prior, guilty of illegal drug trading. The “No Knock Warrant” sought to find drug evidence in this apartment clearly registered in her name. Why couldn’t this decision to search that apartment happen at a reasonable hour that would include two or three officers at best? That level of questioning only occurs when empathizing recognizes that I could have a 26 year old daughter in the same and could have ongoing grief in earth as Breonna’s Mother does. Instead, some would rather rejoice because a few police officers won (seemingly). Those officers had a job to do. I would like to think my position would have declined, particularly if I knew of such innocence prior to the warrant. I more fault the investigators, those in a higher capacity than the standard beat cop. Why such force (including twenty shots rendered, whereby 5 hit Breonna) for such an investigation? In retrospect, could more have been done to de-escalate this from going haywire? How about the same line of questions concerning the George Floyd case, etc.? That’s now become the elephant in the room of avoidance for a small faction and while they’re insistent that if you’re law abiding you have nothing to fear, I wonder how many of them were given the talk concerning warning against those bad apples of America’s Barrel that insists all have an unalienable right to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness, while at the same time denying that great standard unto many of us yet living that witnessed certain legislation to say so (cf. 1954 Brown v. Bd. Of Edu. Of Topeka, along with the 1964 Civil Rights Act)? Legislation won’t ever change the heart of mankind; only the gospel has that Transforming Power! You and I cannot foresee by faith things becoming better in earth because of our certain religious affiliation, lengthy prayers, political affiliation, nor protest. Peace is only found in Jesus! The work sanctioned by the King of Every king taught while insisting we follow the best guideline – to be contained by HIS sacrifice for any who will call HIM LORD, compelling the absolute worst in society to know of His loving them also is the truest parameter. Yours and mine own perspective means nothing – “His thoughts are not ours…” We get what we have because our lack in adherence to what is written and there’s mixture (entirely insoluble) by our houses of worship proclaiming God is in that disorder! Holy God won’t ride on your donkey or elephant! FOLLOWERS OF TRUTH WILL ONLY SIDE WITH HEAVENLY FREEDOM GIVEN MAN AND NOT TRUST BIAS FOUND IN EVERY MAN THAT PRECLUDES SOME MEN LACK CIVILITY.

Today’s Thought “Conjoined Twins” G. Ward 1 John 5:1 “Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him.” Belief in God through Christ is positively huge. However, the interrogation thereunto is minimal from so many. The instruction it offers places demand on our soul as we’re spiritually transformed from sin and self (i.e. opinions, perspectives of old and mostly desiring to be owned) to become altogether new. Systems (both educationally and that which promotes our being industrious) abhors being owned by anything or anyone. Those same systems promote empowerment unilateral of Infinite Wisdom’s unlimited and unwavering guidance offered and while theorizing from those deemed scholarly insist we strive for power of sorts, we forget our prior endeavors considerate of such, that never lent satisfaction. Our connectivity unto the All-Wise Savior has become true reprieve from egomania sanctioned by standards in predominance that ruins and causes the soul’s longing for a place called merciful love. HE won’t disappoint.

Today’s Thought “We Have the Cure” G. Ward 2 Peter 1:20-21 Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Unbelief is a religion; therefore observance of the word of God is not their final authority. When America talks a divide for Church and state it promotes an attitude of dissent, a having your cake and eating it too adoption (Matt.7:13-14). Yours and mine own view of inerrancy (i.e. God’s Word) that makes the Lord owner of our mindsets were never instructed to allow political activism to dictate compliance in our objectivity to make Christ known. Perhaps you’ve sinned by praying for your candidate and not the other in the same? We must ready ourselves in what’s deemed a free society’s choice. Those choices most assuredly won’t resemble Holy God’s because HIS original intent of mankind being ruled by HIM won’t relent. Will you pay more attention to the unrest, or trust (through availability unto His will) mercifully?

Today’s Thought “For Preachers Only” G. Ward Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, And before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Moral codes from Holy God cannot be subjectively suitable for what was inarguable for centuries before legislation decided people’s choice matters over the Almighty’s. Moreover, being complicit in the same moral violation often translates DISPARITY IGNORED when statistical data clearly reveals sectors in our nation’s ethnic make-up are 5 times more prone to innocently suffer great loss (from a family scope) primarily due to sectarian economics. Holy God’s demands are never to be construed by mankind’s deliberate activity that pompously declares he isn’t responsible for one or two transgressions while being guilty in so much. The unsatisfactory merge of politics and Truth (*Jn.14:6) is in itself violating our spiritual duty (Matt.22:15-21). *Mankind will cease to argue (the particulars of God’s demand) when invitation unto the Only Righteous One is the insistence (through mercy shown) from every believer and we’ve come thus far in utter disobedience to witness anarchy whereas situational morality exercised has HEAVEN turning a deaf ear.

Today’s Thought “Living for the Weekend!” G. Ward Leviticus 23 23 Again the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 24 “Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, ‘In the seventh month on the first of the month you shall have a rest, a reminder by blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation. 25 You shall not do any laborious work, but you shall present an offering by fire to the LORD.” “We shall come rejoicing, Bringing in the Sheaves” is a verse in a song sung no more, not because it’s without spiritual significance, but because we’ve come to a place in our demand for music that transcends an agricultural embrace most understood centuries ago. The Jewish Nation of today still celebrates Rosh Hashanah on today’s eve. It’s remains their introduction of the New Year while also commemorating an end time (agriculturally) to which gathering the harvest sought worshipping the Lord who enabled true sustenance among them. It was the prefacing for their greatest worship commitment Yom Kippur (days of atonement), comparable to our Easter (that says we acknowledge all our sins have been washed away by the truest Sacrifice ever – the Lamb of God). The perpetuity of worship has been given all to acknowledge and festivals of sorts were given for the kind of soul reflection that demanded repentance. Worship now is more considered a thing we do at our perspective place of religion. Moreover, our departure from those temples are soon forgotten to every kind of plan we decide as prudent to follow with pleas unto The Almighty to bless them. Parties just aren’t the same…

Today’s Thought “Everybody Is A Star…” G. Ward Galatians 6:4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. When I was in kindergarten and after having a good day the teacher would place a star on my forehead (a small colored one with adhesive, once moisture was applied). My efforts in great citizenship aimed to receive the star so as to create a boast, not because it was dutiful. I recall many of the other children’s sadness as their names weren’t called in the same. My compassion for the others (in their lack) was non-existent and compelled my smiling to be antagonistic joy. My youngest grandson is now in kindergarten and I’d like to think I’ve evolved from immaturity of old; but any failure on my part to inspire another towards excellence through exemplary behavior first found in me is without heavenly recognition, because the diligence due mankind emanates from the highest, preeminent theological reality that insists Holy God is at watch.

Today’s Thought “Leftover Fish” G. Ward Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 Guard your steps as you go to the house of God and draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools; for they do not know they are doing evil. 2 Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few. There’s a regurgitated discourse from many that seeks recognition of their intellect while imagining applause from an audience soon to be silenced as the only One that matters views every motive of man; therefore, I digress…

Today’s Thought “Climate Change?” G. Ward Ephesians 4:5 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism Spiritual Bigotry, what exactly is that Gregory? It’s first entirely un-spiritual and secondly you’re too big to condescend to God’s way over your own. Your power of persuasion in matters lacking eternal quality is given over to sectarian morality (the measurement of a few sins uncommitted that substantiate self-righteousness) without regard to the first commandment given after the Redeemer paid the price entirely and while your invitation exists, it refuses to take one by the hand (in discipleship), showing them the way (and to do so indiscriminately). Moreover, you admit that the Almighty made an error when HE chose that President and kudos to Him when choosing another (of our liking – Ro.13:1-2). Therefore, I’ll pray real hard for the one I like and pity the other. Our presumed love, loves our children, even forgiving them for repeated violations and render others hopeless, tagging them as social rejects, while forgetting the patriarchs of the faith could have been deemed in the same. Oh yes, we say we forgive as having been forgiven, not understanding the contingency of mercy and pardon; while pervading statements like “I forgive them, but we can never go back to where we were” or “I can forgive, but I won’t forget!” Our social networking seeks to inspire others to believe in themselves to never question would you believe in such a one with tremendous failure (particularly when you lack charge with whether the next moment will be granted) who even deny ownership by a Gentle Savior who created them, as HE alone insists governance over the life HE gave them? Belief on your terms is not belief at all! GET TO THE ALTAR QUICKLY! Ok, I’ll stop.

Today’s Thought “Virtual Church” G. Ward Acts 17:11 11 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. It appeared a curse when first exposed to such a virus disallowing many to convene at their perspective place of worship. As we’ve now been exposed to seven months without physical fellowship, our being in touch with souls willing to now embrace other means through technology, yet permits intimacy with Christ. My indignation however burns for some who frivolously receive God’s word through sermon’s moment intellectually versus a plan promoting assurance by great note taking whereas meditations become the saturation necessary to adhere in all that’s delivered. Celebrating the teacher’s eloquence discounts the messages’ receptivity and keeps the hearer striving against the wind. Upon hearing ideology the listener who hasn’t endeavored subject matter feels inadequate to share similarly and therefore renders himself inept. The gospel’s presentation removes the challenges aforementioned whereby everyone qualifies to share because the LORD remains their strength.

Today’s Thought “Does God Need Sleep?” 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. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. 21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools. There’s a great indictment on the land to which we live and its paperwork reveals very few names without guilt regarding the charge – unfaithfulness. The first premise in knowing God is implicit trust of the work Christ endeavored (completely so) and our complaints (i.e. opinions, along with de-contextualized scripture) with what we deem compromise or deficiency in OTHERS won’t matter (*Ro.8:28). The Almighty doesn’t need awakening to earthly realities, you do!

Today’s Thought “I Only Choose Perfect Bananas” G. Ward Romans 13 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. 2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness” is excellence through song; however when there’s selective choice in following some commands and exercising personal vicissitudes in what we feel the scriptures relay will reveal lack of trust. Holy God really won’t ever consult with us concerning His righteous standard (previously constructed) that transcends our limited scope; He just needs our obedience thereunto.

Today’s Thought “Conference Call” G. Ward 1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. In a time where news exists at an instant and whereas we’ve now obtained various electronic gadgetry enabling our capacity, the believer is challenged with rendering proper response. Most important for our acknowledgement is to first understand that we’ve been bought with a price, along with no longer being our own. Secondly, our contemplations lead us to evaluate the information we’re exposed for its ever changing impact. In other words, circumstances come and go, but the eternal hope in God won’t relent. While spiritual revival that evokes proper priority remains the objective for believers, they must never forget the common denominator essential for every man that regards his potential lapse unto prudence. It’s not everyone else needing Jesus, it’s me.

Today’s Thought “Weeds In My Garden” G. Ward Genesis 3:19 “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” If truth be told, we all are prone to the victimization of man’s sinning in the garden (i.e. in and out of difficulties). Our mindsets however, particularly for this era, seek to nullify the actuality of our earthly plight established in the heavenlies. Our murmurings are the same as Israel’s after freedom was established from Egypt; leaders of truth are despised even though the message is Holy God’s. It’s the same as the abolishment of slavery onto a new bondage of Jim Crow Law; however this era’s transcendence concerns the whole of mankind, making him a slave unto principles of pleasure. Ultimately, any source in a moment’s presentation that will introduce small or great bouts of euphoria, will do; to forget self love defies (even poisonous) every man’s purpose. The Bread of Life that Christ has become is nutritious enough for our consideration, providing sustenance, whereby hunger and thirst for anything less won’t do.

Today’s Thought “Test Taking” G. Ward Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. As the student is compelled to prepare for an upcoming exam, so it is unto every disciple in the Lord. That educational preparation however, lacks the similitude of intimacy with God in that, observation of facts rehearsed are without honor (promoting intellectualism). The spiritual demand for worshippers won’t ever anticipate a passing grade for the many tests life will present, but more celebrates reliance on the governance the Book provides.

Today’s Thought “Spewed from the Mouth” G. Ward Jonah 2:8 Those who pay regard to vain idols forsake their hope of steadfast love. Idol worship is/will always be what others do with equivalency for that which grants them completion, making them whole. Strangely and without spiritual cognizance, their posture can echo belonging to Holy God in that same vein. The superficial theorizing from many would more contemplate an idol as a person greatly appreciated or some kind of token, but the actuality is more a soulful positioning that promotes (i.e. defends) their belief regarding this person or thing as most effective in creating solace for their lives (cf. Jn.14:27). The Almighty demands sole allegiance from those He created and while conditions for the whole of mankind ever evolve, we must never consider resolution from someone or something made, as viable to pursue (particularly for any significant period). Idolatry begins with pursuit of sources without recognition of HIS sovereignty and a practice outside this realm denies deliverance intended (Ac.4:12)…

Today’s Thought “The Hamster’s Wheel” G. Ward Galatians 5:7-10 “You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion did not come from Him who calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough. I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will adopt no other view; but the one who is disturbing you will bear his judgment, whoever he is.” Heresy (beliefs contrary to God’s Word) is the culprit to violation of implicit trust in Holy God’s will and especially when the practice of impersonal worship (i.e. one speaker making poetic appeal to great audiences, perhaps unfamiliar with their spiritual condition) demands eloquence from leaders over the practicality truth offers (cf. Ac.2:43-47). Spiritual realities places responsibility on the hearer that compels a total surrender onto Sufficiency and while the worldly view promotes philosophies similarly and seemingly prudent, they’re ever changing, appealing to the relentless pursuit of pleasure found in mankind (Jer.17:9). Instead, true believers demonstrate gratefulness unto how gracious the Savior is in supplying merciful love (even through death and resurrection), paying the price for our sin and leading our meditation’s comparability to that of the caged gerbil on its wheel; while it appears impractical for many as they watch, it brings great joy to the rodent.

Today’s Thought “Vote Conservative?” G. Ward James 2: 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all. 11 For He who said, “DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,” also said, “DO NOT COMMIT MURDER.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12 So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. I must admit that I’ve grown weary of my so called Christian brethren who seek to pervade on others their political stance as relative to Jesus’ commands. They question the complicity of one partisanship in killing the unborn (to forget personal responsibility unto the same either soon to be birthed or children existent without proper nutrition, education, clean drinking water, etc.). These zealots also despise those who seek to change the narrative on gender assignment and what holy matrimony has always meant, while forgetting they’ve been called out to instruct those, patiently and lovingly. The believer’s role has never been to more identify improprieties found in those violating the commands of God (*Matt.7:1-5). That more suggests they’ve conquered the sin nature within (Ro.3:10, 23). Products of mercy shall never consider not extending the same. Moreover, Preachers are guilty of spiritual neglect in all their purporting to create more pomposity among their congregants as they look down on what they deem as societal ills and the actuality of that view renders those so-called participants hopeless. The larger sin for any are thoughts that empties onto permanent discord furthering ideologies (even politics), particularly when any fail to see it my way and while chants of God and country remains loud, they forget to see that HE is loving the world (Jn.3:16-17). How dare I know your politics along with or over Jesus!

Today’s Thought “Bee Venom” G. Ward 1 Corinthians 15: 55 O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; 57 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. My life marvels at those suggestive of an allergy to Bees (the sting primarily). Was it the allergist that determined such a thing, or their fear of pain? Moreover, I’m troubled about the many who’ve echoed such, questioning whether all have medical proof therein? The transcendence of fear is with indiscriminate category, stemming from lack of familiarity/knowledge. The inevitability of death (a requirement of life inescapable) is perhaps the greatest unspoken fear existential in man. The grief relative to having lost a friend or loved one is far reaching, reminding us of this personal eventuality. The whole of mankind’s proposed existence should recognize his inferiority to the Creator, submitting to His gentle rule (Ro.1:18-20). Instead, their love for self denies superior care that empties onto habit and the sting from the bee becomes synonymous with the death experience and while the stinger can be removed, passing away without concession to Christ as Lord is with eternal, excruciating pain (Rev.21:6-8).