Today’s Thought “Jesus’ New Passover Suit” G. Ward John 21:25 Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. We’re contained in the most important elements of God’s Word for our guidance, but as with our Wonderful Savior, there were many experiences not recorded concerning every king or pauper. While we understand this and upon reading this verse, it immediately proposes intrigue from the reader that wonders about the preparation Jesus’ parents created for their family (particularly as they celebrated Passover for 8 days, with the first 2 being the most celebrative with family and friends). As Jesus grew in stature, He would certainly require new garments and considering the gathering so important, I’m sure all would wear their best? Here’s what may have been the difference, Jesus the boy didn’t formulate impatience and ungratefulness when His parents purchased or bartered the garments He would wear because of sin not found in Him. Moreover, as the Seder meal was prepared He didn’t complain about the Lentil Stew either.

Today’s Thought “Finding My Niche” G. Ward 1 Peter 2:21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. It’s said that one can’t want more for another than they desire for themselves, but Christ did just that, even at His expense. Issues of self-preservation is responsible for conflict without resolution and while the believer is called to exemplify peace, components (i.e. prayer and worship) lending recall to such must nurture his conscience; weeding out return in existing primarily unto pleasure principles unbecoming to Heaven (*cf. Matt. 16:24). Moreover and finally, there’s joy in serving others and beginning the practice shouldn’t journey necessarily to feed 5000, but a few will do…

Today’s Thought “Life’s Crescendo” G. Ward 1 John 3:10 By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother. Rarely will any appreciate the test from the Emergency Broadcast System’s interruption of television that serves our nation as a communicative device that warns/informs its citizenry; it’s a perfect time to retrieve a high caloric snack from the kitchen (but no more than 60 seconds please) and whereas this prompting is necessary in establishing our readiness, there may be a time whereby our gratefulness for its existence forgot the program’s disruption. Our lives are just a test similar and when we choose spiritual points in eternality (particularly/exclusively in Christ), the reward of presence/guidance from the Lord, won’t relent…

Today’s Thought “Owned Only On Sunday Morning” G. Ward Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.” Preventive maintenance measures most always are the accompaniment for the prudent; but the one of assurance requires personal relationship with the Owner of every moment and the interest from those re-produced by this Savior are well acquainted with His deliverance meeting the demand to be guided by His unlimited power, trusting the insight He provides as His love for the redeemed won’t relent.

Today’s Thought “Quiet Church” G. Ward Romans 1 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” When you arrive at a physician’s office you want answers to medical issues and whereas Christians know the Lord’s way, it more appears their profession of faith embraces only those passages containing universal blessings that deny spiritual transformation thereunto, promoting death. While mercy most assuredly triumphs over judgment, the exclusivity in Holy God’s demand requires confidence from those knowing Truth and must never seek to blend with worldly standards as to please people, but share Word with tender love that transcends popular thought. Moreover, the Way of the Lord is the most unusual news, entirely good and inclusive; accepting sins found in man, to then reconcile them and build spiritual character via the whole counsel (not partial storylines). So, tell the Truth and shame the Devil!

Today’s Thought “Weed Killer Destroys Good Growth Also” G. Ward Romans 2:15 “Who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them...” Holy God remains the Subject for every storyline and whereas believers should anticipate, then act on His Way. However and often, repetitive self-indulgences (opposite of faith) blocks spiritual connectivity and another religion un-sanctioned has begun. What began as instinctive (i.e. conscience) must be nurtured with Heaven’s demand for HIS creation to realize other deposits will soon be displaced by appearances of greater, whereas complete Sufficiency reigns in the Almighty.

Today’s Thought “Get More Butter and Eggs…” G. Ward Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” There’s a guarantee of evil all around and the urgency of consciousness thereunto is paramount. It won’t always occur with gun toting individuals distraught through intolerance of social diversity, but primarily a lack in consideration to be guided/controlled. King David’s prefacing stated “The Lord is my Shepherd,” to then exist in confidence no matter the circumstances. Claimants in the same can be ours (indiscriminately), but we shall not be guided onto personal fulfillment established by the Heavenliest, only that to which blesses His Name. The product thereafter most assuredly will increase your joy and peace, where fear can’t live.

Today’s Thought “The Loudest Voice” G. Ward Titus 1:15 “To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.” An example of hyperbole is to imply the grocery bags carried from garage to kitchen weighs a ton and while truly heavy, the exaggerated expression lends effect. Moreover, the conveyor seeks empathetic agreement with his conveyances and while in many cases it’s harmless, there remains a few with a wrongful, subjective set of ideas seeking to impose on our tender, impressionable consciences that ruins; making individual responsibility towards spiritual absolutism a must (Ac.17:11), unless you believe you’re impenetrable (*Jn.10:1,10)?

Today’s Thought “The Porch Rocker” G. Ward Psalm 118 8 It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in princes. Hiring technicians of sorts can present great frustration for the lives of those needing mechanical services. These times witness what has always been; service providers with signage on trucks revealing their expertise, but when the call is placed for evaluation and appointment is made, the time agreed upon witnesses their arrival hours later. Moreover, all their boasts in exciting possibilities for the job endeavored may soon involve hiring another service provider to complete the task initialized. Our lives are somewhat broken as such, we however have relied on friends and family for aid to our emotional longings and at the height of our need for human interactivity we’re often alone. Christ is the Most Excellent Technician, having created every man (Jn.1:1-3), promising to never depart from those who yield to His lordship. His restoration is best…

Today’s Thought “Taking Candy from A Baby” G. Ward John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” The world is representative of a mindful position synonymous to the highest cliff at the Grand Canyon. Its varied consideration is without vehicle that can properly explore all it offers and when an avenue of exploration concocted derives from us, we’ll either get there just to see more rocks as viewed on the cliff, or fall into a destructive abyss (*cf. Pr. 3:5-6).

Today’s Thought “A Road Less Traveled” G. Ward Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” On yesterday in the Metropolitan portion of Atlanta known as Cherokee County, there was a mass shooting, whereas the assailant (a young male – 21 yrs. Old) killed 8 with appearances of intentional attack of Asian people within three locations. Howbeit that such a young man would be transfixed in evil to commit such a heinous crime? As data entry establishes computer hard drives of sorts, incessant lack of regard for people groups can lead to murderous plots. The demand given mankind from Jesus (in our theme), commands our endeavors match HIS and whereas devices in contrived theorizing (entirely inaccurate) are given man to perceive in greater proportion, it gets us what we got. There’s a spiritual plan of inclusivity that shelters us from hatred and divisiveness and the Author of its demand remains absolute, not speculative. Will you say yes to HIS demand, disquieting wrongful contrast of man’s determination to be known for his value system that’s ever-evolving (cf. Jer.17:9), furthering a need for another philosopher that damages additional souls?

Today’s Thought “Protective Big Brother” G. Ward James 4 11 Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. 12 There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Who are you to judge another? While many perceive judging another as not permitted, one will need to defer to the actuality of God’s Word and realize that each day embraces judgment from morning to night (cf. Matt.7:1-5, 1 Cor.6:1-3). There is however a condemnation unto others that disparages another suffering with sin’s sickness (including small and great consideration therein), while the one entirely critical forgot the time mercy found them. The passage aforementioned exists for believers, that we’d understand the magnitude in spiritual forbearance unto each brother in the Lord; to protect and serve them – that the wall of faith personified would attract those feeling periodic miseries to view a place of rest exemplified in a few called Christian. Will you be available to extend to another the mercy shared with you?

Today’s Thought “Taking Melatonin” G. Ward Proverbs 20:4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing. I’ve never used an alarm clock to awaken and certainly cannot recall having missed an appointment. While that may appear remarkably admirable, lack of sleep is said to obscure best judgment and can prompt poor health. Moreover, commendation from any regarding vivaciousness found in some is certainly available to others, but must plan the route for success and while you think I’m offering kudos to your endeavoring what’s proper for the day presented, I’m offering you best planning emanating from the Only One not needing slumber and All-Wise.

Today’s Thought “Everyday Like Sunday?” G. Ward Psalm 122:1 “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.” Lord God, like the psalmist rejoiced in personal adulation although accompanied by many who would praise Your Holy Name, I anticipate the same; but desire each day as such. I’m understanding how the first century’s church dedicated their souls daily in the manner of our weekly visitation with others like-minded And while it’s a joy to see those in our spiritual family, I more adore You as Author and Finisher of our faith. Lord God, many times this kind of prayer is expressed without actualizing the desired worship of You that furthers faith without works as dead, so our spiritual mindsets want to thank You for Your charge to keep as soul winners, enabling every potential therein. May this day be dedicated to our hearts desire to witness mine and others exalt Thee over every circumstance and everyone. Thank You for the Savior in whose Name I pray, Amen.

Today’s Thought “Intentional Construct” G. Ward 1 John 3:1-3 See how great a love the Father has given us, that we would be called children of God; and in fact we are. For this reason the world does not know us: because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope set on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. Father God, there’s not enough pause in our daily consideration to what’s most important that lends refreshing. It’s because of access through Christ unto this wonderful convention with You that our hearts delight in Your un-forsaking Presence; even thankful for Your Supremacy over our lack in mercy. Our meditations necessary for spiritual growth is often marginalized, even arrogant as we’ve looked more towards societal ills found in others, without self-introspection that begs Your pardon to then make ourselves available to any wayward thereunto. May this day embrace a holy longing to correct what has been and prohibit vain philosophy’s regard unto the soul You provide us as we anticipate HOME provided by the Majestic King Jesus, understanding no righteousness is found in us apart from HIM. Thank You Lord! Through Jesus we pray, Amen

Today’s Thought “Desiring Riches” G. Ward 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 This is the way any person is to regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy. In the days of old, one from some without access and could read was assigned as leader; thus creating a standard reliant on what could be interpreted as above the rest. We’ve now purported this assessment to our spiritual world, particularly as it concerns leadership within our worship institutions that insists one be eloquent with an ability to speak publicly. The actuality in Heaven’s call occurs through corporate and personal discipleship which establishes both confidence and boldness in proclaiming Truth and mankind’s role when identifying himself as a spiritual servant, will never seek prominence along with the words that gives Life, but just share.

Today’s Thought “Mountaintop Air” G. Ward James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” Heaven’s provision for us can often be construed with wrongful determination due to anticipation of a gift desired more than having the Most Gracious Giver’s love relentlessly pursue us; particularly as HE has made Himself available to any and while the initial assessment of it all violated thanksgiving unto Him that included sorrow for lack in recognition of such, blessings continue (cf. Ro.5:7-8).

Today’s Thought “Boxed In” G. Ward John 10 1“Truly, truly I say to you, the one who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. 2 But the one who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep.” Most will propose believing in Christ’s Sufficiency, yet take issue with theology representative of Him as the only way to know God. We know Christ as everlasting (*Jn.1:1-3, 14), but many religious perspectives have been the block that demands a one God belief permissive of numerous ways to know Him and while the believer’s regard is living submissive to holy governance found in God’s Word, there continues to be some exercising in reckless abandonment in being part-time associates to faith matters, resembling the predominant attitude that lends excuse (i.e. argument) unto surrender of oneself for spiritual makeover (*cf. Ro.1:18-21). The truest objective remains a proper focus onto any, more demanding all look to Jesus (Heb.12:1-2) than His representatives, WHILE our efforts seek to embody His righteous standard (Matt.5:16).

Today’s Thought “The Waiting Room” G. Ward Luke 16 27 And he said, ‘Then I request of you, father, that you send him to my father’s house— 28 for I have five brothers—in order that he may warn them, so that they will not come to this place of torment as well.’ 29 But Abraham *said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 But he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!’ 31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.” Each of us are in a critical care unit of sorts and we’ve been operated on by the world’s issues. The surgeries we’ve endured allowed for physicians without proper credentials, so scar tissue is throughout our beings, even blocking varied organ’s functionality. We require oxygen because our pulmonary capacity was severely exposed to air unclean. Ultimately, our vulnerability cries out for any who can save us and while a fella comes in our room with a white coat and a stethoscope hanging from his neck promises he’ll lend aid to our condition unlike any other, a reasonable investigation discovered he too neglected credentials. The Great Physician was in the room the entire time, with all the elixir necessary, but we neglected to address HIM because HE wasn’t dressed like any other belonging to the world.

Today’s Thought “Searching for Seashells at the Riverbank” G. Ward Romans 1:17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” The word “faith” has been marginalized by a natural disposition in man to guide his own way. Moreover and as any determine to encounter benefit(s) unto their progression, others advancement can be likened to an airline mantra before take-off that serves as warning if there’s ever cabin pressure loss (“place the mask over your own mouth and nose before assisting others”) and while this particular admonition is understood, it’s also with transcendence in all we’ll endeavor and to that end won’t agree with faith’s measurement (i.e. consistent with our theme). Faith must first have an Object to first believe in and then to emulate (cf. Lk.6:46, Jas.1:22). It then seeks solace, but not in things over contentment, because if/when it does it’s tagged being pursuant to principles in personal pleasure and faith in the lordship Christ provides trusts His guidance meant for me, along with that to which pleasures Him (*Eph.1:5)…

Today’s Thought “More than Anything” G. Ward Psalm 63 1 God, You are my God; I eagerly seek You. I thirst for You; my body faints for You in a land that is dry, desolate, and without water. 2 So I gaze on You in the sanctuary to see Your strength and Your glory. 3 My lips will glorify You because Your faithful love is better than life. A great man of God from our congregation departed this life onto eternity a few days ago. While many sorrow with regret for a man never to reach forty years that included little health his entire life, mine own will miss him with tears. He was genuinely masterful at encouragement, even through numerous hospital stays and countless surgeries. We’d do well in recognizing sufferings; how no one is exempt and while measures of surprise are exacted from so many, it more reveals personal, inevitable demise. Christopher would more invite you towards a thirst in earth that will deliver upon the Lord’s promise (*Jn.14:1-3), never to crave earth matters again.

Today’s Thought “Noisy Room, While Alone” G. Ward Proverbs 29:11 “A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.” All our experiences won’t compare to wisdom unfolded as any run to consult the Truth of God’s Word. There however is an exercise in caution as some presume upon it to gain specific guidance therein more relevant to life’s complexity for the moment, than allowing Presence to overwhelm their soul while the internal war in disquieting assertions of where I once lived witnesses our Lord speaking to us.