Today’s Thought “Called to An Audience of Few” G. Ward Amos 3:1-2 “Hear this word which the LORD has spoken against you, sons of Israel, against the entire family which He brought up from the land of Egypt: 2 “You only have I known among all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your wrongdoing.” The discipline given us as children was certainly not welcoming and when/if we’re afforded adulthood, our thankfulness reminisces, longing to share with somebody. Our parents, if fortunate to have more than one child couldn’t show favoritism (Aren’t we thankful for their stance?). Love desires every child within our grasp to grow via a nurturing that grants future productivity. It’s therefore become necessary to not produce only those melodious lessons and forget about the ones lending correction (remembering the goal is not happiness, but joy everlasting – even while troubles persist). Amos the prophet, was undesired because his message given would declare the Almighty’s rejection of Israel’s worship of HIM without honoring HIS directives (4:1, 4-12). Many of the prophets were ministers of gloom and dishonored among those with great spiritual indiscretion and whereas we as believers now share a priesthood similar, why are we only sharing the good (even intentionally only seeking words seemingly encouraging), particularly in view of a similar plight given by Israel (cf.*Eph.4:15)? We must love in spiritual congruence to our Savior, or it’s nothing (Heb.12:11) …

Today’s Thought “How Long Will I Be a Mess?” G. Ward Psalm 51 12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Codes of conduct are given many from manuals and to be honored by those members to offer governance (for all) that thwarts a chaotic environment. Although these manuals haven’t been difficult to follow, particularly for those of us who desire to uphold personal integrity, it’s been difficult to keep up with in view of an ever-evolving posture our society adopts when nuances in lifestyles desire recognition and while all deserve equal protection from some lacking a rightful congeniality, many not guilty are frustrated because not bringing offense is “common sense” from them. There remains a manual however, never forced, but chosen by the prudent and its governance WON’T change; absolutely perfect for every generation and even invites those troubled in disorder to know of the restoration power its OWNER offers (to any) and whereas HE’S done all the work necessary for the reprieve ahead, faith in HIM is the only requirement.

Today’s Thought “So Much Injustice!” G. Ward James 1 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it has run its course, brings forth death. Today marks the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation from maintaining the largest concentration and death camps where 1.1 million European Jews, along with prisoners of war and homosexuals (presumed) were killed. Presidential policies instituted by Andrew Jackson’s reign (U.S. President, 1828-1837) absolutely forced (utilizing the U.S. Army) migration westward (from the South and Southeast) for 5 tribal groups of the American Indian whereby many from what began as 350,000 indigenous people of this nation having endured great brutalities; even witnessing disease (ordinarily curable), that killed more than 30,000 and many more would die of hunger and others would freeze to death, known as The Trail of Tears. Altogether, every injustice begins with thoughts entirely indifferent to the Almighty’s governance for those HE made (John 15:5) and to think of ourselves as indifferent to these kinds of villainous acts is perpetuated (arrogantly so) when we believe in a pseudo, personal ethical code that immediately categorizes people according to visuals versus our Creator’s desire (*2 Pe.3:9). FAITHFUL IS HE and we’re mandated to be …

Today’s Thought “Too Familiar?” G. Ward Exodus 3 14 And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM”; and He said, “This is what you shall say to the sons of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.” While many seek a reference to the Creator by name (even with insistence unto any to proclaim that same designation) and because the names of God are numerous (yet HE is ONE- Deut.6:4-5) and whereas we all remain beneath HIM (e.g., The Most High), we’ll need to be careful in more paying attention to the assignment(s) of HIS demand, verses diversionary assertions as to what name is proper before I obey. We reverence Him as Holy, along with our words as few (*Eccl.5:1-2), recognizing there is none like HIM and whereas familiarity will soon empty onto contemptuous boulevard, an interrogation of one own’s soul may ask, have I been guilty(?) …

Today’s Thought “Were It Not For Grace” G. Ward Ephesians 2:2-3 In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. While many pervade notions of great hypocrisy found in the church no different than outside, neglect to view the correct appropriation can, or will become their sorrow if they continue in this wrongful contrast. Relationship with the Almighty maintains personal reliance on Him, proven more in private times than public and whereas appearances in stalwart character is great, we all fall down periodically (Ro.3:10).

Today’s Thought “Reactionary” G. Ward 1 Peter 4 11 Whoever speaks is to do so as one who is speaking actual words of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Just last week my travels involved an airport stay to which warranted arriving very early so as to not miss my proposed flight. This has been a standard I’ve adopted long ago; particularly in view of my witness to the many so hurried in their travels exuding tremendous inhospitality towards many. In times past, upon arriving at the gateway, I’m generally found sipping at coffee and whereas I’m older now, two points of concern plague me – bathroom visits in airports or planes. There is however, my ongoing delight in people watching. I remember the season of my youth where so many dressed professionally and meticulously, to now have to discern whether any have bathed. Moreover and perhaps as you may know, much walking in airports now is assured, so there’s great comparatives from me in assessing those youthful verses some appearing geriatric (as some may suppose I am). I enjoy becoming older and like many, my wife and I desire opportunity in being able to care for ourselves so as to not impose on our children and grandchildren. Our faith in our Lord has greatly increased; we’re more accepting to potential sufferings ahead; particularly as we’ve witnessed so many others given circumstances so grim. Yet, our sorrows pale against what we believe lies ahead (John 14:1-3); so, we fight on to live according to our Savior’s example, believing mostly, that troubles aren’t lasting. BETTER TO BE EARLY THAN LATE (*John 12:35-36) …

Today’s Thought “Play Another Slow Jam?” G. Ward Matthew 24 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. A dance hall in Monterrey California, meant for reprieve unto any bombarded with too swift a pace society offers, will now be remembered for a Saturday evening massacre by one on a killing spree. These allowances will immediately seek an obliteration onto mass killings; we’ll attack it politically, while praying for the victim’s families. Moreover, the normality of it all invites many compassionate to a plight from some to utterly destroy, to hug their children more, rendering expressions of love without condition. We appear to be imploding WITHIN and ultimately due to a nation WITHOUT the Almighty at its helm. Soon we’ll cry out to HIM again for peace, even proclaiming our great land as blessed, to forget the contingency altogether (cf. *2 Chron.7:14). Our weeping with others most certainly endures for a night, maybe two, then we’ll venture to govern ourselves again, even regarding an unfounded sufficiency in systems and people, with a similitude in carrying a rabbit’s foot (which brought him no luck at all – cf. Pr.1:24-29). I beg each who have ears to hear – surrender now, before it’s too late (Luke 6:46) …

Today’s Thought “False Eyelashes” G. Ward 1 Peter 2:11 “Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.” Our predecessors are owed so much more from our contemplations regarding their endurance. The conveniences we enjoy however, have subtracted from such; as we’ve normalized usage of things that caused our ancestry blood, sweat and tears. While we don’t desire to regress to such struggles, we’ve been introduced to so many other blockades, along with wrongful considerations and whereas they too acclimated to horrid conditions, our saga continues. I can’t help but to think that perhaps if we were more physically exhausted, mindsets of lusts would be somewhat extinguished onto a next day’s preparation, with strongest appeal to our Maker for an endurance relevant to our journey each day. All of this won’t reveal what generation is more exposed to hardship, because every era called for those who exist in it to utterly rely on the Almighty to persevere in it. The only science recognized as the cure is faithfulness and because our Leader exemplified being Faithful, HIS guidelines WILL lead us there. The pursuit however, must be with more tenacious spirit than anything the eye can see, or all the mind can imagine. Rejoicing is on its way when we’ll unfold the mystery of the Savior’s discourse when HE said, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light. "

Today’s Thought “Madam Zenobia’s Booth” G. Ward Colossians 2: 8-10 See to it that there is no one who takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception in accordance with human tradition, in accordance with the elementary principles of the world, rather than in accordance with Christ. and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over every ruler and authority. Advice, whether solicited or not can satisfy, but if it’s lacks the perfect resolve found from Holy God’s Word, it soon will rely on other suggestions. However, the transformative power the Spirit realm offers absolutely cures the human heart, while other determinations pale in contrast (cf. Jer.17:9-10). Therefore and because life answers were determined before the foundation of the world (with Ultimate Wisdom and mercy), the prudent adjourn to the words most beneficial; doing so unwaveringly and whereas there’s periodic lapse in judgment, we’ll return in godly sorrow to absolute embody confidence that HE never stopped loving us (*Heb.4:16). More praise today, than yesterday…

Today’s Thought “Kicked Out of Better Places” G. Ward Matthew 10:14 If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet. 15 Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town. The commissioning by Jesus Christ unto believers was with a demand very costly from two views. It would first insist on absolute recall of His endurance that granted our peace in knowing HE abides with us no matter what (Ro.8:31-39), along with reality of sufferings ahead because of such surrender to the All-Wise Savior (John 15:19-20). Believers then, were compelled (as they went) to proclaim His entry ( the sign anticipated of old, manifested for their redemption). Their custom then, particularly when households lacked hospitality was to demonstrate a form of disdain upon leaving, by knocking the dust from their shoes to indicate a mission ongoing. Believers now proclaim HIS Sufficiency to govern every life HE created (John 1:1-3) and whereas a custom exercised when refusal to hear Truth is clearly undesired from any is done away with, many have adopted a philosophical stance given by the great Tina Turner that says, okay, “Hey, don’t let that stuff get on you!” Soon, “every knee will bow before ME; every tongue will acknowledge God.”

Today’s Thought “A Dreamer” G. Ward Luke 16:24-25 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’ “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. I’ve often dreamt of the end, where every state in consciousness could only calculate my transition from earth to heaven. I most assuredly never doubted my eyes would soon thereafter see my Savior face to face. There however was a prefacing of an inability to gather anyone onto this anticipated reality given those spiritually redeemed and my exposure to this embodied shock with a smile and a grateful conscious, without fear, that affirmed HE is my LORD. This experience is now occurring with great frequency and my writing on this day recognizes my being seated at my bedside to just have awakened from this spectacular eventuality. Sure, I really have no definitive idea of this exact presentation as highly probable, but I do know the end is near; three score and more of life existentially says so. Moreover, our predecessors traveled this same road without choice, so why would any deem this a dismal report? Surely for any who would, it may warrant a prudent evaluation that prepares accordingly and less interrogation of others sharing their readiness to accept what they absolutely have no charge over, remaining actual for every man to perceive, no matter his age. I recommend JESUS CHRIST now; not as you’ve understood His way in familiar terms, but a surrender onto them, that establishes total dependence. I’m here if you need my help.

Today’s Thought “Proprietary” G. Ward Looking at him, Jesus felt a love for him and said to him, “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” Mark 10:21 Categorically, most of us that would consider a devotional thought from time to time aren’t morally derelict in major crime. Moreover, the technological society we’re exposed keeps us abreast of the moral decay so entirely pervasive nowadays that can contribute to a lack towards interrogating our own lives. Like the Rich Young Ruler (Mk.10:17-22), we may be too hasty in sharing how good we’ve been vs. deeper contemplations of grace and mercy afforded us that demands better surrender unto the Deliverer of such a gift. Why not consider best servitude (both as to serving and patience) on another as they struggle in spiritual adaptation, because HE waited on you (*cf. Mt.6:14-15, Heb. 12:14-15)?

Today’s Thought “What Shall I Render?” G. Ward Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Hypothetical: If this was the era to which Jesus Christ walked in earth as Divine, yet a man, would He ascribe (via a portrayal of mankind’s degradations and sensualities) to a varied social media, or an urgency unto what’s absolutely resolute? Moreover, if you walked alongside of Him, do you think your posts, or tweets would be any different? Perhaps your answer is immediately defensive, suggesting a wrongful challenge? I say, a review is necessary. HE is Lord; “All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being” (John 1:3). Therefore, and because He is everywhere (being the Almighty) and whereas He’s lives inside every believer, every issue exacted from us must exude righteousness, not argumentative impertinence. Awakening, to then perpetuate all day contact, along with a pre-slumber examination of social media posts, appears as an ownership onto mediocrity (*Matt.6:21) and such a social impact answers whether Jesus Christ’s posts would pervade things violating eternality. Are you prepared to imitate HIM?

Today’s Thought “What Book Are You Currently Reading?” G. Ward John 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. Authorship from many lends great discernment perceived and whereas every manuscript is flawed with the exception of the inerrant Word of God, they will all call for personal interrogation, particularly when prudence is the demand (cf. 1 John 4:1-3) and while a life pursuit can embody to know more lending intellect, it establishes a wrongful priority. Sure, education calls for a studious diligence that will grant us vocation affording a varied lifestyle, but the spiritual pursuit delivers joy and peace (at a continuum), outweighing the uncertainty of life in earth and altogether seeks to establish the Almighty as Controller of every breath to either pursuit. Jesus Christ at the very end of His life in earth would desire that every and anyone would pursue a love relationship synonymous with the one HE had with the Father, yet a false defining for our era continues (i.e., going to church, praying often regarding mine own desire and for people and things to only prosper onto conditions impertinent to eternal matters. Any of these may certainly be included, but never intended as relationship’s truest indicator). We cannot insist on knowing Him, without being known. Our intimacy with Him will never pinnacle unto walking across a stage receiving credentials in expertise (cf. Lamentations 3:22-25) …

Today’s Thought “Turn All Devices Off…” G. Ward Hebrews 4:1 Therefore, we must fear if, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you may seem to have come short of it. The serenity of the night (particularly as I opened our front door to look out at the beauty of the sky, along with witnessing a blessed quietness) before my slumber invited thoughts of Jesus’ return to surface (1 Thess.4:13-18) and while I thanked the Almighty for His rescue of my soul that granted me rest, meditations of others who’ve not enjoined themselves to this great surrender had grief encapsulating my being. Immediately, I conceded to a dutiful response to more share how what appeared to be a man (i.e., myself) born at the altar of the church house, was an angry, embittered without constraint, selfish (with many bouts in immoralities), that’s now transformed (spiritually) so as to exemplify orderly behaviors acceptable by Heaven’s standard. Moreover, my gratefulness is unrelenting because mercy now encapsulates me because I’m yet shamefully submissive to periodic bouts of who I was and whereas my godly sorrow is genuinely the supplications unto my Redeemer, He never fails to restore me onto His salvation. That’s what I’ll tell em…

Today’s Thought “People Need People” G. Ward Romans 12:3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. The measure of faith begins with humility to never forget the greatest sacrifice ever, that granted rest FOR ANY weary. Moreover, it compels our availability unto any owned by lack of constraint (i.e., addictions, mood swings at a constant and selfish, those perpetuating divide, etc.) and whereas the Almighty is without categorization on the particulars of evil, our natural construct continues in sinfulness (Ro.3:10,23). This actuality absolutely nullifies our ability to deem others hopeless and while any remain guarded after receiving the gift of redemption, disallowing an exemplar witness, IS OPPOSITE OF WHAT THE SAVIOR DEMONSTRATED and mandated we’d pursue. We’re busy listening to unjust philosophies that pervade, rid yourselves of anything or anyone negative and if/when applied, will absolutely keep you out of the marketplace altogether and those begging children and grandchildren of ours most certainly won’t see us again. We’re also told to follow our dreams and desires and to pursue happiness, although we’re bought with the most significant price and our Creator sent HIS BEST, not for personal acclimation in euphoria, or that His will be done, but to DIE FOR OUR SINS and to know HIM compels us to imitate HIM (Eph.5:1-2). Please go see about my kinfolk and stop with this vain philosophy.

Today’s Thought “When NO Is the Answer” G. Ward James 1 2 Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. An age-old question of why the Almighty allows such afflictions can be confounding to mankind, until he realizes his grandmother, or aunt who lived in/for the love the Savior offered lent them endurance, never believing they would ever be exempt from great sufferings. Some of these reality, spiritual stars would die a tumultuous death; even suffering convalescence whereby cognizance of who you were was obscured by sickness. While many count on a “thief at the cross” kind of experience that found salvation upon his imminent death, confessing his sins after witnessing Jesus’ praying and witnessing the world go dark, certainly proves the Savior’s mercy is everlasting and those before us who exhibited faithfulness while trials flowed like a river are enjoying an eternal inheritance not because they’ve done anything correct, but knew of Christ Sufficiency (cf. Heb.11:13-16). Will your fervent prayers exist mostly when tragedy or calamity occurs, proving unfaithfulness (*Pr.1:24-29)? Will you keep living a life HE proposed through insisting your directives are sufficient? Are you listening to prognosticating from the unlearned regarding so much ahead (in earth), while the uncertainty of next moments lack guarantee? Slow down and embrace Truth (John 14:6).

Today’s Thought “Pulled Over, No License” G. Ward 1 John 1 1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of Life— 2 and the life was revealed, and we have seen and testify and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was revealed to us— 3 what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. Intimacy with God is a must to know HIM. This involves personal study of His Word (outside the realm of sermon, teaching series and devotional thoughts), along with hearing HIS directives for the life He’s given you that enables devotion onto doing the will proposed by HIM and while this includes unceasing prayer, it was never meant to embody so many words from your limited insight and sectarian supplications (Eccl.5:1-2, Matt.6:7-8). While I applaud the many attempts from devotionalists, their discourses are given so not to make you dependent on them, but their God residing within and a practice unto these writings (from others) formulate inevitable embarrassment (2 Ti.2:15, Heb.4:16) and shame as any pervade what they say is most important, yet without answers (while others look at you, viewing what’s typical). Let’s cease being owned by mediocrity.

Today’s Thought “A Whooping Promised” G. Ward Nahum 1:7 The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. Perhaps you’ve heard of the prophet swallowed by a large fish after refusing to share with people absolutely violating righteousness, even deemed hopeless by those appearing good (Jon.1:1-12, 15-17)? The Prophet Nahum one hundred years later is commissioned to the same people that once repented of their wrongdoings, to then be found arrogantly defiant of Holy God’s standard. Nahum however is not the minister of chances, but doom. While we deny a love relationship intended with our Creator, through perceived, rightful complaint in all the church, pastors and people (concerning their hypocrisy), I’d beg you to obtain a proper contrast. The Author and Perfector of our faith (Christ), remains the only view worthy to emulate and when we persist in an early spirit that Jonah embodied, there may be no fish available that can engulf us; instead, the Almighty remains merciful (*Ac.3:19).

Today’s Thought “Ritualistic” G. Ward Psalm 143:8 Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. We’re mostly guilty of making plans and then asking the All-Wise God to bless them; which remains antithetical to His demand. HE alone is said to be All-Knowing; identifying what was/is best for us, before our earthly presentation, along with being knowledgeable (solely by Himself) on future pitfalls and perceived success we’ll encounter. Therefore, doesn’t it appear necessary for any considerate in living a productive, effective life to embrace a preliminary guidance (through study of God’s Word and prayers for endurance) from the ONE who loves you most? While everyone is resolved to so much, precluding New Year resolutions as useless are synonymous with some who’ve taken birthday out their vocabulary, to now include “Born Day” as its newest expression; regardless, it’s still that day my parents say I entered this life. Let us all resolve ourselves unto what’s most important for our lives; it’s Holy God who issued (inherently – Eccl.3:11) the consciousness embracing our recognizing HIS omnipotence. Truly, “morning by morning, new mercies I see” …

Today’s Thought “Eating More Fiber” G. Ward Hebrews 13 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever. 9 Do not be misled by varied and strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited. Salesmanship from varied manufacturers can often tamper with an original product line to unfold a “new and improved” version that sends subliminal messages to our psyches demanding (in everything) compliance of new as best and whereas everyone will be faced with Holy God’s impartation of eternity in the heart of man, we must build on no other foundation.