Today’s Thought “A Hand In the Cookie Jar” G. Ward Acts 1:7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.” It’s suggested that dessert before dinner will ruin an appetite, but many of us via our own constructed laboratories have experimented with this theorizing far too long to understand that although somewhat actual, many forgot to share the stomach’s elasticity’s permissiveness, soon to introduce indigestion. The things of Holy God’s are similar to culinary presentation at the finest table set for us; it arrives in courses. The soup may first arrive whereby it’s served at such a temperature compelling the eater to sip so as to not burn the palate. Then the salad, revealing tasteful texture with splashes of dressing that introduces (say it just like the French would) the pièce de résistance/entrée, perfectly prepared with artistic prowess (from the Chef) with us in mind. The Almighty gives us life so we won’t burn, allowing His own to sumptuously endeavor fruits of sort from their labors, so as to present final rest therein, prepared beforehand and long ago by our Merciful Savior, Jesus. We must allow every course given to abide solely by His directives, trusting in His Omniscience, as we invite others to this wonderful supper.

Today’s Thought “Be It Resolved Today…” G. Ward Ephesians 5:1-5 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.3 But sexual immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be mentioned among you, as is proper among saints; 4 and there must be no filthiness or foolish talk, or vulgar joking, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know with certainty, that no sexually immoral or impure or greedy person, which amounts to an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. I’ve never been a gambler, but I must admit to having attended dog racing before and besides, there’s the idea of losing hard earned money so insensible. Moreover, it’s utterly captivating to witness the dogs never competing against each other, but chasing an artificial rabbit named “Ritchie.” Its comparability equals New Year resolutions and regardless of whether any participate or not, everyone complies. The ones opposed are often hilarious with their stone-faced, adamant view of its silliness to which inevitable breakage of desired regard/necessity will soon manifest and those joyfully participating find it to be a game of sorts, with an underlying wish self-discipline denies. Altogether, both violate today’s charge to correct/resolve that another year is without promise and there’s serious, urgent compelling that should adhere to the Almighty’s patience towards man’s spiritual conformity which won’t submit to earth’s calculative measurement (*2 Cor.6:1-2)…

Today’s Thought “You Really Didn’t Get Me Anything?” G. Ward 1 Peter 5:10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. Spiritual conformity won’t ever desire to leave any behind, but will posture to those receptive to the Almighty’s righteous standard, having seen what’s offered in normality and desiring higher. It most certainly is not with suggestion of being better, just desiring best and the un-equaled example of the Savior Jesus becomes his striving. Although others may soon reveal lack of altruism concerning your change and whereas ordinary found you (in times past) perplexed and bothered, having perceived they were your greatest cheerleader, in-ordinary calls you to pray for their spiritual conformity until it happens, always willing to throw a life-line without recall of their indiscretion exercised towards you and the persistence of your supplication having been made so many times unto the One who loves them best will too hear their repentance and so the family expands…

Today’s Thought “What If There’s No Chimney?” G. Ward Acts 20:35 “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Giving is mostly relative to that which extends visible substance to another so as appeasement unto another is enlarged and whereas context is often marginalized by lack of interrogating what God’s Word is really saying people run amok with their theorizing. The giving in this passage is with personal assistance (through spiritual conviction) to help instruct another towards God sufficiency, ensuring generations (after our earthly departure) won’t wait for another to substantiate one’s own calling to fulfill (i.e. sharing Truth – Jn.14:6). Don’t go broke in this season on a false premise and besides, you’ll never satisfy them.

Today’s Thought “Four More Days?” G. Ward 1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” Father God, our words have sought to thank You for awakening, while often still asleep. Our lack in progressively seeking assignment from Heaven’s order is the culprit. Immediate to our general recall of sin found in us and after we’ve adored You for not being like we are, the error of coming from our knees introduces greater sin, because we know spiritual success is guaranteed when we remain in the grip of grace. Our recommending Jesus, while certainly the best answer, refuses to walk alongside the weary and the amount in Word we’ve obtained won’t match our pursuit in being satisfied so that others lack guidance (even our very own). The beauty however is how patient You are with us in Your Blessed endurance towards our rebellion. Your Love expressed towards us remarkably remains, granting us now to say – Father, change us and upon this makeover, guide us for Your glory, even so that we’d never look back to ever have to recapitulate again, in Jesus Name Amen.

Today’s Thought “Praying HIS Will” G. Ward 2 Peter 3:13 “But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” Father God our view is with a subjective unrighteousness that more substantiates a worldly stance in Who You are. Our spiritual mindsets more want to adore Thee with an investigated recall that complies, by doing what Truth demands and while the mandate exists to imitate You, living holy and blameless, our superficiality, with demand to be happy, even placing ourselves above others says that on this day, to turn from our wickedness needs Your Holy restoration. More than that which tarnishes, along with those prioritized, remains Your mercy; and we this day run to the shelter You provide. May You adjust our bad thinking for every season as we have been full of diversionary appearances of these days as belonging to You, while they’re really about us. May our chants of honoring You forget our words to more identify our deeds and rejoice because of Your allowance through Christ’s Sufficiency and may we adjourn onto that cause. Father, there are so many without cognizance of Your grace and as carriers, may our calling to fulfill not substitute tangibles against the imperishable, unrelenting way Jesus our Lord is still providing, in HIS Name we pray, Amen.

Today’s Thought “When I Grow Up…” G. Ward Job 12:10 “In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.” Job wasn’t invited to the great meeting between Holy God and Satan regarding all that would occur for his life and perhaps had he the insight, fear would have encompassed his being. Instead, his great sorrow in extreme loss more desired to trust his Maker. It is written to impose upon disciples of Truth to insist spiritual adjustment be made in accordance to all that could/would be for our lives; never to lose sight of Infinite Knowledge belonging to the Almighty. Job’s wife, along with some friends agonized in watching his troubles accumulate, impetuously sharing answers comparable to what we’re exposed from acquaintances in our time and I’m convinced like Job, to wait on the Lord. How dare any formulate decision(s) without charge of a next breath? Sadly, our insistence for immediacy didn’t begin with our technological advancements (including news at an instant), but plagued Job’s era also and while hypothesis remains the necklace for man, there exists answers from the Owner of every moment worthy of proper investigation (2 Ti.3:16-17).

Today’s Thought “Medium Rare Please” G. Ward 1 Corinthians 15 36 You fool! That which you sow does not come to life unless it dies; 37 and that which you sow, you do not sow the body which is to be, but a bare grain, perhaps of wheat or of something else. Answers pertaining to life can’t be found in earthly realities; so why all the searching? It’s relative to our demand for information at an instant (cf. Isa.5:20-21), which will ultimately deliver us to shame. Whereas a beef steak can be prepared on a fire (450 degrees) to then witness the beauty in its color, along with appearances of great moisture, it may soon be returned because I needed metal teeth to chew it (i.e. my terms); and so the corollary is with theological proportion that demands a qualitative study of the words from the Almighty so that what’s been prepared for me by the Savior may be satisfyingly sweet as the honeycomb (i.e. HIS way)…

Today’s Thought “Tired, But Not Finished” G. Ward Numbers 6 24 “The LORD bless you and keep you; 25 The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; 26 The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” For the Pastor there’s great grief upon a congregant’s departure and another day has come to celebrate a life of a young Mother of three to which our members lauded for her excellence. How then does any develop words enough that while extending comfort, also delivers a great charge to be known by Heaven? Whereas prayer does preface these events, these trials presented must rely on where endurance exists – in the Shelter of the Almighty. There are but a few hours for this grievous time and tears now will soon be wiped away from mine eyes as I perceive to be next in line, yet ready to see My King (cf. Ro.8:18). May HE be honored on today...

Today’s Thought “Growth from a Petri Dish” G. Ward Romans 16:17 “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” It’s assumed that certain religionists are opposed to science and whereas this proposed opposition has raised its head in a varied measurement, it more than likely stems from some mad scientist’s tampering with what basic life offers (i.e. violating original intent). The Word of God is similar. What’s been proven as the Only Life-Line has been tampered with. Bad theologians of sorts with insistence to be known among men, take up where the serpent humiliated man (*Ge.3:1-5). The modulation of what thus says the Lord, can/will empty onto eternal misery, all begun from un-sanctioned examination in presumed innocence (cf. 2 Ti.2:15).

Today’s Thought “Dinner and A Movie?” G. Ward Ecclesiastes 9:11-12 Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge, but time and chance happen to them all. For man does not know his time. Like fish that are taken in an evil net, and like birds that are caught in a snare, so the children of man are snared at an evil time, when it suddenly falls upon them. It was two years ago that my wife and I sought a visit with our youngest grandson (then a 4 yr. old) while in a large children’s hospital. I must admit that my experience in visitation to children’s facilities as such has been infrequent; whereas I’m very familiar with most hospital structures throughout Metro Atlanta due to ministry obligations. We were devastated in what appeared the longest walk to our grandson’s room. Without provocation our eyes wandered in each room to view medical machinery of sorts attached to young and innocent people with prognosis no different than adults. What was certainly understood to exist, was then to become permanently etched in my soul. Moreover, further interrogation from my grief status unfolded the children’s hospital morgue being equal in size to the adult facilities. Preparation for an uncertain time of departure or crisis must never be with equivalency to ordinary plans anticipated. The goal for any created by the Maker should understand the choice afforded every man BEFORE his demise; to be with Holy God forever or with Satan in utter torment (in the same) and this testimonial in affirmation is confirmed by Heaven and not because one’s name is on a church roll (Matt.7:21, Rev.21:22-27).

Today’s Thought “Opposing Factions” G. Ward 2 Corinthians 11 24 Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent adrift at sea. 26 I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, dangers among false brothers; 27 I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. Did the Apostle Paul pray No weapon formed against him would prosper (Isaiah’s prophecy yet fulfilled pertinent to the Millennial kingdom – 54:17), or did he bind Satan (a defeated foe, absolutely humiliated by the LONE work of Jesus) concerning his many sufferings? Did Paul have a mother/father/aunt or uncle praying for him concerning his safety? While sufferings occur and whereas believers are established on precepts from the Almighty, any will find perseverance/endurance in the strength the Lord provides when he’s convinced that what’s written is for his benefit and the more pervasive, false narrative from esteemed members of society, usurping/subverting Truth pale against Holy God loving you with guarantee in never leaving or forsaking you (cf. Jn.14:1-3, Ro.8:18).

Today’s Thought “Living for the Grace of God” G. Ward Philippians 1:21 “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” More investigation lent to study of God’s Word, unfolds a preparation for us (believers) in knowing our proclamation of Christ may certainly offer testimony of His goodness, along with an assurance of what He’s done for me, He’ll do for you, but should not administer that same testimony with congruence thinking it’ll be a perfect accentuation to the gospel. We’ve arrived at such a regressive point whereas testimonials are more hopeful than actual. Demands from our neighbors live unto themselves, exercising false control over life. The only guarantee remains Jesus, life’s Author. We’re agents of His, to share an inheritance with the needy…

Today’s Thought “Frail, Just Like You” G. Ward James 5:16 ESV Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. The objective for the priesthood is to point others onto the Lord’s Sufficiency; giving answers from His words and while there’s no doubt on the part of believers, we struggle in rendering a varied paraphrase (unadulterated) from the original text that helps the hearer navigate themselves unto adherence. That perceived struggle forgets the Word of God warned us about the contrived spirit of man (Ge.8:21, Jer.17:9, 2 Ti.4:3). He demands answers in accordance to the moment presented, intolerant of wait. The magnitude of responsible, spiritual behavior insists our dependence remains in the grip of grace our Savior provides; therefore pray to HIM for perfect guidance that grants a spiritual result and rest. This is for me on today as I’m bombarded with other’s demand for situational ethics that won’t make sense to Heaven.

Today’s Thought “Last Words” G. Ward Revelation 22:20 He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. My un-scientific evaluation says mankind more absorbs life than a preparedness for departure. Awakening each day with a “Thank God” can more reveal there may be some unfinished business of sorts; and while that truly celebrates opportunity for the day, to then get up off my knees, it can quickly be reduced to plans ordered without holy category. If we had insight as to the last moment, perfect spiritual reconciliation would/should be our insistence. Yet we more exact a denial of global proportion that says earth is home. We ought be so satisfied and assured of Holy God’s desire to receive our repentance, to then guide us onto righteousness that adheres to His holy standard thereafter. Moreover, each day presented should embrace His (Christ) return and the spiritual barometer remains personal intimacy at a constant unto the One who called you friend (Jn.15:15). The love for you from this Wonderful Savior cannot reciprocate on those terms, but can anticipate seeing Him face to face to bless His Name eternally long.

Today’s Thought “Tunnel Vision” G. Ward Jude 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. 22 And have mercy on some, who are doubting; 23 save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh. The problem with the world is really not what they do, but the believer’s misinformation concerning Final Authority’s demand that disqualifies our speculations (cf. Eph.6:12). Christ’s sacrifice as sufficient didn’t call us to persuade men to righteousness on our own volition, but by the Spirit realm. In other words HE loved them first, desiring their repentance; we’re solely agents of His in earth, less busy in assessing transgression, while sharing Truth and trusting God for the results. Believers that fail to understand the plight of man (i.e. self-governance), forget who they were before godly regeneration and while any received mercy, failed to be merciful, equals hypocrisy of the worst kind (*1 Cor.6:9-11). As Jesus is still calling sinners to Himself, He expects faithful adherence from those who call Him their Deliverer believing Heaven is with room enough for others (Lk.15:7). So, go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere…

Today’s Thought “Called to Suffer?” G. Ward Isaiah 38:1-3 In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, came to him and said to him, “This is what the LORD says: “Set your house in order, for you are going to die and not live.” 2 Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, 3 and said, “Please, LORD, just remember how I have walked before You wholeheartedly and in truth, and have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept profusely. Don’t allow your liberal arts education seek to explain the way of the Lord, particularly when your pre-suppositional thoughts of what HE should do is the determinant. Some get cured, others don’t, some starve and others won’t. Some are granted riches and others lie in abject poverty, while others desire clean drinking water and others only drink Perrier. We’re told to pray about everything, but when the Savior taught disciples the model, we tagged it the Lord’s Prayer to which it wasn’t at all. Moreover, Jesus’ example echoed constant sentimentality of HIS will be done (echoes of implicit faith), while ours yells, “do it this way, because You said in Your Word!” I urge any to read the eternal script correctly and to know that HE saw you speed through passages indicative of those HE loved enduring great sufferings, even death, but with a home prepared by Christ where suffering of sorts would be no more. Therefore, modify every supplication in view of so many before us that lived by faith (and remember it’s substantive, but not seen) and cease to pass the baton back to our Sufficient King, particularly after HE told us to prepare “others” outside of the grip of grace to soon become recipients thereunto. There is an answer and it’s called trust (*cf. 1 Cor.15:55-57).

Today’s Thought “Will You Be One of my Girlfriends?” G. Ward Hebrews 13:4 “Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.” Generations ago witnessed courtship between men and women blossoming into nuptials recited; whereas appeasement through open-ended promises of matrimony has now become efforts in co-habitation spiritually un-sanctioned. Holy God’s intent was that marriage would be earth’s foundation for growth, ensuring spiritual legacies throughout every generation. The violation thereunto views bouts of divorce (in equal proportion) among believers and unbelievers; indicative of vows unto the Lord as nominal and yes ladies, while men remain stupid, any consideration from other women that keeps him sowing his wild oats makes life difficult for any virtuous as these same menfolk spread their gene pool amongst many, becoming “Hollywood Daddies” (i.e. every other weekend fathers not responsible for extending daily disciplines onto their children). Would you consider a periodic hosting of a “Come to Jesus Party” (Matt.28:19)? We’re called to be conquerors over generational cursing and it won’t happen because of our complaints (which really translates COMPLICIT), but through faith in God’s ability to change those unproductive onto spiritual efficacy (like HE did for you and me).

Today’s Thought “Am I My Brother’s Keeper?” G. Ward Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.” There’s a pause on today with all our shopping efforts representative of the season regarded as #Giving Tuesday. While I must admit it being new to me, the act of giving to the less fortunate isn’t. Without question, it’s certainly perfect consideration for those of us in such a prosperous land to remember any beyond our parameter with considerably less. Our Americanism has been generous more with those without, including what we deem necessary to simulate our living and the benevolence rendered concentrates on this one day event anticipated vs. a year round plan. If your church is without a global mission’s interactivity, perhaps you’ll consider online giving to UNICEF (whereby less than 3% goes to administrative costs). Moreover, if your church is without a global missions unit, perhaps the Lord is calling your name in becoming instrumental in beginning one?