Today’s Thought “Can God Use Me?” G. Ward John 8 31 So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Whereas the joy of marriage includes an intimacy beyond the scope of physicality, it’s what establishes trust of One who will witness (with tremendous care) most vulnerabilities in the fullness of this foundational relationship; that even looks beyond them (i.e., faults) and meets needs. Christ invited those disciples then (and now) onto this unrelenting reality; but if we (the bride of Christ) forsake such intimacy, allowing secondhand knowledge of HIS generosity that shares how much HE cares, trust in what HE says is marginalized. Many awaken to periodicals and spiritual songs others have written and sung; our Lord desires a love relationship with us (in a gracious, personal sense), yet so many train up in what they can see and touch (cf. John 20:26-28), rather than the terms of belief required by us unto HIM so supremely more than anything. I recommend Jesus and prudent investigation of HIS words (as an established practice) which builds faith, while a continuous search of only those perceived melodious portraits keeps you distant from ONE so near (cf. Ro.10:8).

Today’s Thought “The Sum of Contemporary Thinking” G. Ward 1 Corinthians 2 1 And when I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come as someone superior in speaking ability or wisdom, as I proclaimed to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. My study of God’s Word has awesomely revealed (time and time again) I’m nothing apart from HIS grace (cf. 1 Pe.5:5). Our Lord is the Maker and Sustainer of those who believe and we’re without objectives so unfamiliar to HIS demand (discoverable in HIS Word). I’m troubled however, in how any can know of our opinions before what’s central to our existence; particularly in view of its lack in eternal merit. Moreover, our being so inventive that formulates greater religion (*unsanctioned), introducing with demand (and because of a predominant thought), moral issues onto humanity, before Christ Sufficiency, can/will portray on any a self-righteousness; forgetting that the world is void of the Perfect reconciliation afforded us by Christ (and certainly not because we were good enough – Ro.5:8). Unbelief and doubt are worn proudly as the necklace of choice every time our proclamations won’t solely encompass words of eternality (i.e., encouragement as though those in our presence won’t live another hour). Shamefully, our adoption of perspectives (entirely philosophical) relies (with insistence) on systems more than Holy God. Altogether, it proves unfaithfulness, along with discounting sufferings that bombarded every generation of man (as if to insist from Heaven, we deserve differently). Instead, all must know us solely from the mercy shown through Christ; because our inheritance depends on that (James 2:13).

Today’s Thought “For Me?” G. Ward John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.” While it appears a sudden shift for chapter 3 of John to begin with a meeting arranged at night by a chieftain of Pharisees named Nicodemus; who genuinely inquired of an even greater Teacher, Jesus – far more authoritatively superior than any man’s intellect could ever portray on others was recognized, that warranted a great question concerning genuine, unpretentious faith not found in Nicodemus’ sect (i.e., they were portraits of external righteousness, while internally corrupt) and whereas Jesus’ response was captivating, the cost for belonging for Nicodemus was too high, even threatening. He would have to renounce all he participated in, weighing every endeavor against the Truth of God’s Word. Moreover, he would take on a role unbeknownst to his religiosity and to do so would then become meekness (a receptivity in being owned by this Gracious Savior). Nicodemus’ surrender thereunto would demand his proclamation in newest identity at both night and day (*Ro.1:16). Surely, all these were perhaps not as challenging as the fear he presumed would follow him all the days of his life, particularly as he knew of first-hand experience of a wicked persecution from the same sect to which he belonged would be his (*Matt.10:28). It is written, that’d we know to not fear man, but to urgently and unabashed, “give up” while such a Supreme Love is within our grasp.

Today’s Thought “Cultural Anarchy” G. Ward Galatians 6:1 Brothers and sisters, even if a person is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you are not tempted as well. While the media opts in a perpetuated sensationalism for what exists in man’s heart (cf. Jer.17:9), even causing such anger leading to murder, peace has been given to believers to dispense liberally and in view of a most significant goal (i.e., to know Christ and to make HIM known) and whereas there’s no escaping the magnitude of information at a moments notice, deciphering “why” is only apparent to those who’ve searched out what they did to our Lord; understanding it’s an unfortunate visitation unto us (John 15:20). Believers however, must prepare to encourage others’ desire to maintain stalwart Christian character upon slippage thereunto; to not allow a temporal status of earthen priorities overwhelm their greatest spiritual commitment to live in objection to the world’s darkened plight and to do so with love and immediacy (cf. 1 John 2:15-17).

Today’s Thought “Watch Yourself!” G. Ward 1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you also are doing.” What warranted this letter was great persecution/ill-tolerance of Christianity (people of the Way) and the Apostle Paul, the number one evangelist/teacher of that time, knew it best. His instruction that clarified Jesus as the Messiah spoken of in the Old Testament, was proved and disciples grew; yet in the face of Truth many were defiant, even treacherously so. This portion of his letter sought to encourage their knowing that our resurrected Lord would return for them and also received their loved ones who either died of natural causes or were martyred for belonging to Christ (i.e., who confessed His Sufficiency to forgive their sins, along with absolutely dying to themselves and allowing His regeneration). As I endeavored to understand what Paul’s encouragement looked like, that study revealed a comforting warning to prepare others against plights of self-preservation (an anti-spiritual mechanism) and to absolutely walk alongside of any fearful in being perceived as belonging to Christ, particularly as so many others refuse to be owned and look so free…

Today’s Thought “With Many a Doubt” G. Ward John 3 1 “Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; 2 this man came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Nicodemus’ curiosity insisted he’d go to Christ at night to inquire of the supremacy of His earthen status; particularly considering that his (intellectual prowess) pinnacled unto great regard from religion’s highest sect of that time (and perhaps throughout history). The professor’s engagement didn’t desire any to witness such an encounter, so he arrived at night; religious leadership despised Jesus. Jesus’ claimants were too authoritative (i.e., irrefutable). This meeting was monumentally ours to perceive, in that our regard for the “whosoever” of Christ’s discourse includes the poor and affluent. The common denominator for man remains he needs to be reconciled from his sins to know God (ONLY through a Perfect Mediator – John 14:6), along with understanding that apart from this mediation, we all can do nothing (John 15:5). Mankind’s attempts in formulating Empowerment promptings unto others violates believer’s commission to disciple others (*Matt.28:19), along with seeking to re-invent the only mediation that grants joy and peace; even falsely instilling in mankind a hope to perceive success rests in social posture with evidence in materialism. Moreover, it’s entirely opposite of the demand onto spiritual preparation that perseveres in trials and sufferings (*another common denominator of man – Jas. 1:2-4, 1 Pe.4:1, 2 Cor.4:17). “I came to Jesus just as I was, weary, worn and sad. I found in HIM a resting place and HE has made me glad” (i.e., EMPOWERMENT).

Today’s Thought “From Turmoil to Tranquility” G. Ward PSALM 13:1–6, “How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? Consider and answer me, O LORD my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, ‘I have prevailed over him,’ lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken. But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, because he has dealt bountifully with me.” Every predecessor of man has faced great trials, including sufferings up to departure from the earth. Many were overlooked and devalued. Some struggled all their life to rarely experience abundance, while watching others so seemingly prosperous. While it’s said that children should bury their parents, many buried their children. Our times now are with unfounded declarations of thwarting any of these actualities. Unfortunately, many of my generation have allowed these great misappropriations’ penetration that prays most anything perceived negative away; to forget it’s Holy God’s allowance: My child is cured, but another visits the mortuary. You catch a cold; I die of a debilitating carcinoma. Does Heaven know of our sufferings, or is man horribly ill-informed and won’t investigate on HIS terms? Was it Christ who warned us of a proposed threat similarly (cf. John 10:7-9, 15:18-21)? The populous wants to impose a daily dancing in a field of flowers mentality; the worse fear mongering and whereas the psalmist began so grievous, he concluded with trust of his Maker’s Way…

Today’s Thought “Not an American Theology” G. Ward Romans 8:32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Chapter 8 of Romans highlights the security believers have in Christ and in this latter portion, the Almighty proposes a series of questions that pervades on our beings a knowledge of Christ’s love so rich through deliverance from our sins now and forevermore. Moreover, it establishes how the entirety of what was provided (i.e., His grace), that even included faith to believe (Ro.12:3), was solely HIS work; only allowing our “yes” to HIS will for the life He’ll construct (*Phil.1:6). The “things” of the letter are only representative of sins and sadly, its meaning has been blatantly misapplied by so many (cf. 1 Cor.2:14); yet, only meant that for Heaven, sin is without category and whereas the term “freely” further modifies that nothing is too difficult for the Savior, we give HIM the highest praise. While some view “things” as potential conditions of euphoria, along with material evidence, they absolutely subvert where context unfolds the Truth; revealing an insatiable selfishness indifferent from the friends of Jesus (from around the world – cf. John 3:16) who are famished, desiring a cool, uncontaminated drink of water…

Today’s Thought “Am I Qualified?” G. Ward Isaiah 64 6 For all of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment; and all of us wither like a leaf, and our wrongdoings, like the wind, take us away. Many times throughout scripture, humanity is urged to “draw near” to Holy God. This in essence promotes intimacy with the Almighty. Our Lord however, cannot be found among the unrighteous and whereas Christ is the Only Mediator and Dispenser of righteousness (because none exists in the whole of mankind unilateral of HIM – Ro.3:10), our confession of sin found in us, along with requesting HIS presence, unlocks the door, to witness HIS Spirit enter our being (cf. John 16:13-15). To be clear, intimacy with God becomes the greatest desire for the believer and although there’s periodic lapse (while we exist in fleshly terms) in what’s best for us, every practitioner of what’s most desired (His lordship over us), craves His shelter. We allow ourselves to be captivated by HIM speaking to us (solely through the spiritual manuscript HE supplies and not mysteriously obtained); requiring it through daily intervals so as to persevere in a world insistent on knowing Him, but more anticipates another’s’ writings or speech for personal directives. Moreover, our spiritual observations won’t intentionally seek those passages we deem fulfilling, but crave true growth, allowing discipline from On High; never desiring to “grow up” and move away from the comfort of the home HE provided (John 14:1-3).

Today’s Thought “Purpose Is Knocking” G. Ward Genesis 5:29 And he named him Noah, saying, “This one will give us comfort from our work and from the hard labor of our hands caused by the ground which the LORD has cursed.” Lamech, Noah’s father, is used of God to utter this fantastic, prophetic actuality, that continues today as our shining example of steadfastness amidst ungodly circumstances all around. The populous is now with demand for similar utterances to “decree and declare” but to do so selfishly. Moreover, in a pretentious construct (spiritually unsanctioned), many desire prognosticating an immediate great esteem from men, that includes money to substantiate a “Rich God” loves them; which absolutely precludes hope for many throughout our world merely desirous of clean drinking water (I guess God doesn’t love them as much.). Our Father in Heaven and anywhere HE wants to be, has given purpose to every believer (perhaps you say you’re one?) and whereas when spiritual purpose (i.e., a concise presentation that teaches the Way of the Lord – Matt.28:19) is produced (everything, in word or deed, must circumvent proclaiming how HE brought us from darkness (sin) to marvelous Light (Grace from Holy God, not that you and me are deserving. *1 Pe. 2:9-10), some offer “yeah, but” ... Spiritual predecessors of old were taught to protect/promote a potential spiritual legacy that would ensure those after them would have wonderful access to the Only Merciful God. We’re more taught get it now.

Today’s Thought “Tested by Popularity” G. Ward 1 John 2 5 But whoever follows His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6 the one who says that he remains in Him ought, himself also, walk just as He walked. The opening of this chapter portrays the very excellent avenue afforded mankind, the sufficient sacrifice Christ rendered for our sins; enabling our trust in His directives and example as less difficult to follow (5:3). While some question what may be acceptable to pursue, along with a wrongful consideration of other presumable, moral codes (unsanctioned), true believers always consult to what’s written by God (*2 Ti.3:16-17). No matter how many ascribe to the ways of man (ever-evolving), the Truth of God’s Word is unchanging and whereas echoes of no one gave me a manual to endeavor such monumental tasks presented, it’s just not true.

Today’s Thought “Reverend Peter and Paul?” G. Ward Matthew 23 8 But as for you, do not be called Rabbi; for only One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters. Gospel teachers allow Holy God’s perfection to be seen among earth’s citizenry; understanding those predecessors of faith who served also had a Perfect Witness in Christ who admonished any coming after Him to know, “A slave is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they followed My word, they will follow yours also” (John 15:20) and whereas many others want to be perceived for their greatness, and disallow the masses to come near them (with security teams encircling them), along with insistence of titles in greatest superiority (than the perceived common teacher), it’s clear their spiritual view is blocked by pride with pretense (1 Cor.2:14), even subverting scripture, while claimants in undue spiritual authority is their necklace (cf. Matt.23:1-7). Don’t be impressed; only the LORD is worthy! Does the Almighty deserve “all the glory” or some?

Today’s Thought “Toxicity Within?” G. Ward Matthew 5 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Coming to faith in Christ, accepts the most imperative assignment ever and contrary to modern thought, has been a position of incessant trials/sufferings versus a decontextualized “no weapon” theology (Isa.54:17), solely attributable to the Millennial Kingdom where government rests in Jesus and Satan is bound. Many spiritual, have suffered greatly, even died while surrendered to Holy God (Heb.11:32-40). The weapons that cause any great disturbance aren’t unusual, but historical and while the fault appears to be a people disconnected (sociologically); the Word of God wants all to know that the evil forces of wickedness (beyond the scope of man) is the culprit and whereas the fight with others is mis-applied, even futile (Eph.6:12), ours must rely on the words of Jesus (see our scriptural theme). I’m very frustrated to hear believers absolutely and permanently dismissing so-called negative people from their lives; it violates the assignment (*Matt.5:16, 28:19). *When there’s any wavering from God’s Truth in us that insists, HE is Lord (and yes, we’re all guilty – Ro.3:23) we’re negative people, but HE never leaves us.

Today’s Thought “You Talkin to Me?” G. Ward 2 Timothy 3 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work. There’s an unfortunate pursuit from many who thrive on motivational sayings that can spur their days onto a less problematic set of hours in the marketplace; but how well are any when so many are seemingly intentional as a wrecking ball exposed to an old building? Disciplines given by our parents didn’t solely encompass “yes” but would often say “no” and whereas we celebrate how it introduced constraint unto “shiny things” ultimately harmful, it was truly instrumental for our regard in surrender unto the Most High. Humility, unlocks a receptivity towards the supremacy of the words given by the Almighty; never intellectualism, nor any philosophical approach (cf.1 Cor.2:14). While many grow in stature and prominence among men, they’re short-sighted in their humanity (i.e., not knowing what the next moment will present) and when there’s rejection to receive Holy God on His terms, troubles are enlarged.

Today’s Thought “When I Rose This Morning…” G. Ward Psalm 119:14 “I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches.” The believer’s reminiscence will rarely involve things and conditions to touch and overcome, but more delight in the presence of Majesty at a continuum; absolutely marveling on how HE abides in such a lowly vessel, while desperately maintaining an attitude in HIS leading.

Today’s Thought “True Devotion” G. Ward Psalm 10 17 LORD, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart, You will make Your ear attentive 18 To vindicate the orphan and the oppressed, so that mankind, which is of the earth, will no longer cause terror. Father God, our complaint lies so beneath our implicit trust of Your Way. Your entire Holy script is given so as to promote a fortitude in existing in a world so disconnected to its Maker and whereas Christ would insist every follower understand “a servant is not greater than his Master,” our perseverance is nothing until it adjourns to the shelter HE provides. We’ve looked more to the problem than the solvency HE offers. While our chants proclaim HE’S Sufficient, we’ve looked to government and social structures, even compelling their leadership for change already given every believer; particularly as our testimony/witness, determines their heart’s change – to which only You can do. Ours is limited, Yours is from everlasting. We want to know all things ahead, yet we thank You for unfolding only the moments presented; keeping us dependent, where All Wisdom is Yours. May so many others come to know who You’ve been throughout the generations of man, even sending Your own into exile (i.e., strange lands), understand, we too are in a strange land and although “milk and honey” flow from every street corner here, many sup on poisonous fruit and so our prayer is for any whose reliance waits on the “daily bread” that enables Your calling to fulfill (for us) and may it bring absolute Glory to Your Name, as others come to know You! Through Jesus our Lord we’ll go where You say and teach Your commands; for You alone are worthy! Amen.

Today’s Thought “No Money Exchanged” G. Ward Luke 6:38 “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.” On many occasions, I‘ve been approached with great quoting from those spiritual, seemingly relevant, from God’s Word. I’m bothered by their misuse and whereas local assemblies everywhere remain vulnerable to a perpetuation of wrongful application (particularly when unstudied), generations suffer with impressions of presuppositional thinking concerning words from the Almighty. The scripture aforementioned is with verses prefacing this phenomenal actuality that regards when believers are merciful, along with refusal of an attitude in condemnation and unforgiveness. When believers practice these spiritual regenerative behaviors, it produces a return unfathomable. Let’s all do better with eternal matters (cf. 2 Ti.2:15).

Today’s Thought “Sunday’s Offertory” G. Ward 1 Chronicles 29 11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and on the earth; Yours is the dominion, LORD, and You exalt Yourself as head over all. 12 Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone. Our fellowship is “small potatoes” compared to many, in that our efforts to generate funding won’t utilize numerous modules in doing so (*cf. Pr.11:30). My years in the pastorate witnessed many leaders’ frustration with me (particularly with those foundational in giving generously) and whereas we’ve sought to share Jesus’ sentiment of how it’s “better to give than to receive” most in our audience haven’t captured that spiritual essence. My tenure here won’t waiver (on giving) because I know how spiritual perseverance to win their hearts onto being owned by the Savior will include their pocketbooks. We’ve experienced great uneasiness in budgetary shortcomings, yet our God is faithful. King David understood his son (Solomon) was similarly inexperienced with the kind of spiritual fortitude afforded him (vs.1) and while David sought to build the Lord a magnificent Temple, the completed effort was denied him, that even included the kingship; soon transferred to his son. Trust in God for David didn’t relent, along with desire to present great sacrifice to ensure the Lord’s palace was great and to see generations thereafter understood HE alone should be forever praised. David’s praying would invite other’s participation (vv.10-19). The villagers witness of the King’s supplication and surrender in such humility, convicted their hearts causing a freewill offering of their absolute best, affirming David’s delight with Holy God. David would die shortly thereafter and if we keep pressing towards a “daily bread” that only emanates from our Father’s House (and not from other men), we’ll rejoice in Glory, along with David and others, eternally long.

Today’s Thought “While in the Mirror” G. Ward Matthew 5 43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may prove yourselves to be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Gregory’s definition of ungrateful - The unrest so prevalent from mankind will soon be an unfortunate distribution onto those he’ll encounter and although it may be silent vitriol, it ultimately lacks a hospitality that invites others where peace is found and whereas too much attention is given over to their presumed enemy forces, rarely will one look upon their status against humanity’s Deliverer (Christ) that determines they were (once) enemies of the cross (HE bore – cf. Matt.16:24) before being received in the heavenlies. Enemies aren’t permitted (Read the passages).

Today’s Thought “Problem Child” G. Ward Proverbs 24 17 Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, 18 Otherwise, the LORD will see and be displeased, and turn His anger away from him. The love of Christ compels me to love the unkind, unjust people in our society and my obeisance unto HIM should never be prompted by spiritual legislation first, but absolute recall in who I was before His changing me and comply immediately (cf. Phil.1:6). Perhaps I wasn’t the vilest among earth’s citizenry, but through careful, ongoing observation of God’s Word, I’ve unfolded HIS determination(s) is not categorizing sin as man does (Ro.3:10), but sending a Perfect Reconciler for our stead, revealed HIS unwavering love towards a rebellious people (*mine own descriptor before surrendering to His gentle rule). While hatred is presumably regarded as without permission for our emotional well-being, it’s elaborated upon because it exists as merely harboring ill feelings of something or someone. Moreover, hatred is with category (e.g., I hate okra, but can tolerate it in certain dishes.); but should assess why any could/would impose an unsanctioned victimization of any (cf. Eph.6:12) that desires their destruction when all deserve similar punishment (*Ro.1:28-32), but JESUS(!)…