Today’s Thought “Disagreeable: Could It Be Me?” G. Ward

Galatians 6: ² Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. ³ For if anyone thinks that he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

 

An “Ice-Breaker” is generally a statement or question used to reduce the tension in desired dialogue or group setting and if one may be depleted of statements or questions, just ask, “is there someone in your life personally, or professionally, that just can’t get it right” (i.e., who maintain a bad attitude)?

Believer-ship means that no other contrast should exist outside of how we match up to the life of Christ, to then presume on our Lord, asking, “Considering how You loved me, even while I was grossly trapped in utter rebellion, even giving Your life when I refused to get it right (*Ro.5:8), You’re witness to my spiritual transition, having provided that for me, despite me and whereas that should cause my new characterization to unfold righteousness, compassion, restoration and reconciliation, often times I’m blasphemous in believing that some will never come to understand, which translates, even God can’t change them. Forgive my Unbelief.”

 

Today’s Thought “When You Pray, Move Your Feet!” G. Ward

John 6:  ⁹ “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what are these for so many people?” ¹⁰ Jesus said, “Have the people recline to eat.” Now there was plenty of grass in the place. So, the men reclined, about five thousand in number.

 

Our Lord’s quest in earth, set the example in belief that inextricably includes works (*not attaining salvation work, but compassion that sees and fulfills the need – Eph.2:8-10). Moreover, it teaches every follower how compassion embodies (*indiscriminately) - feeling the pain of another, but can be marginalized by inactivity (Jas.2:17-19). The miracle HE’D soon impose on a people wasn’t showy (e.g., not proposing a book deal thereafter), but would affirm HIS Father’s greater attribute of compassion at its highest, along with confirming HIM as the Long-Awaited Hope (*Matt.1:20-23).

We don’t have long to prove HIM as the Only Sufficient One, but many times are taught from the crowd’s desperation to be fed and forget, than intentionally building another (*Phil.2:3-4).

 

Today’s Thought “If I Were King of the Forest!” G. Ward

Proverbs 16

⁵ Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Be assured, he will not go unpunished.

The term, “proud in heart” translates arrogance. The heart, in this regard is not the bodily organ necessary to disperse blood throughout our beings, but is where thoughts, intention and will breed actions; either sanctioned by our Maker’s demand, or ill-recognized; but is prone to great error (Jer.17:9). Humankind, was never suited to correctly guide a life – HE proposed to exist. Instead, Holy God remains sole Creator and Proprietor of the earth and its contents, rendering perfect guidance to those surrendered to HIS Infinite Wisdom. Any negligence to HIS sovereign lead is contemptuous and if practiced so regularly, will lead to eternal separation from this Wonderful Creator (cf. John 14:6).

Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals He's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me.

 

Today’s Thought “No Music, No Crowd, Just Praise” G. Ward

Psalm 16

⁶ The measuring lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; Indeed, my inheritance is beautiful to me.

 

Blessings from the Almighty are primarily lauded from many that involves things seen and while this actuality is not entirely wrong, the intangibles for my autumn mean so much more. Moreover, my acquaintance in how undeserving I am, even escaping exposure and punishment is utterly confounding and whereas I praise HIM for the mighty shelter HE provides, I shall require of me, until I see HIM face to face, an absolute recall of my indiscretions; for I never desire to repeat those offenses. Thank You Lord, for my journey…

 

Today’s Thought “A Bumpy Road” G. Ward

Hebrews 12:6

“For whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He punishes every son whom He accepts.”

Whereas discipline is necessary for a child’s productivity, that certainly encompasses ongoing instruction in how to correlate in a world ever-changing, a parent’s invite – when that same child’s middle name becomes rebellious, through repeated violation of the disciplines demanded, certainly may call for an association with great pain unto the one you’d give your life for. This in essence is the nurturing necessary when you love your progeny.

For followers of Christ, we’re yet regarded as children of God and many times our middle name becomes unbearable unto Heaven and whereas our Lord proves HIS love similarly to that of our proposed parenting, our Lord’s discipline can also be painful, yet we are ever learning to not endeavor that same road again (Acts 3:19).

 

Today’s Thought “Leadership: Setting the Example” G. Ward

1 Kings 8

^61 “Your hearts therefore shall be wholly devoted to the Lord our God, to walk in His statutes and to keep His commandments, as at this day.”

 

King Solomon would preface this compelling to God’s people with great prayer unto every inevitability his countrymen would face (good and bad), calling them to recognize the Lord’s unwavering faithfulness. His audience had just witnessed a return of the ark of the covenant to its permanent house – the Temple (completed under Solomon’s reign) and whereas great joy would permeate the land, Solomon called for absolute recall of the Almighty’s vigilance towards HIS own – demanding a reciprocal gratitude onto faithfulness.

A believer’s existence, is often without contemplation in how someone may have prayed for them similarly and whereas our gratitude cannot exist without devotion to our Lord’s plan, we maintain – use us Mighty God!

 

Today’s Thought “When I Grow Up…” G. Ward

Proverbs 2:2

Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding;

 

To be clear – followers of Christ, understand true wisdom emanates from followship of the Lord’s Way and not intellectual pursuits of man and whereas both may be a necessary journey to pursue, the Word of God will remind its students of the preeminence in the Almighty’s plan for us, as far superior to a wavering, philosophical, along with hope in social reforms and political change (favorable to our demands). Instead, to know the panacea always shall exist in the Maker’s script and believers are called to teach it in accordance to that strongest conviction they’ve obtained (certainly doing so, with love, joy and respect).

 

Today’s Thought “Come and Go, To That Land…” G. Ward

1 Thessalonians 4

¹⁷ Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ Therefore, comfort one another with these words.

 

This scenario provided us, would come upon a question that needed answers concerning these churches identifying where their loved one’s hope in Jesus would exist – considering they died and whereas those living anticipated our Lord’s return (1 Cor.15:51-57), those who died presumably couldn’t. The answer provided would assure them that the souls of these who placed their full trust in Jesus while in earth (cf. Luke 6:46) were with the Lord and HE’D afford them the great opportunity to come back with HIM to witness believers (*still alive) to be joined onto an eternal physical presence with new resurrected bodies (1 Cor.15:50-54) designed by the Almighty,  permitting forever and whereas the same hope exists for our generation, to believe remains the requirement (and that certainly includes understanding all our Lord did and commanded, while affirming all HE did and said as true, along with acting on them by appropriating Jesus Christ in every endeavor (word, or deed) AND THIS IS NOT AUTOMATIC (Matt.7:21-23)!

 

Today’s Thought “Over-Throwing an Enemy” G. Ward

1 John 5

⁴ For whoever has been born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world: our faith.

 

Perhaps we’ve all witnessed a schoolyard bully, to view a perceived toughness existing more in/for those feeling inadequate, than some determined to utterly conquer fear (*indicative of overcoming) and if fortitude to stand is neglected, could deliver a potential, hazardous encounter (cf. Matt.10:28). The bully for the believer is the world’s influence (on a body and soul belonging to the Almighty), and while that influence is so temporarily perceived, more acknowledging our citizenry in Heaven is required (*John 8:31-32); to thereafter – only live for substantive things embodying eternal merit (cf. 1 John 2:15-17).

I pray that HIS today for believers everywhere – unify, under HIS righteous banner and not those messages without eternal merit; for we know money and things are not eternal.

 

Today’s Thought “Reciprocal Order” G. Ward

Philippians 2

1 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, ² make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

 

These verses embody a consensus of every apostle our Lord appointed, declaring Christ as the Premier Example of holy living in earth, even that to which witnessed absolute SELFLESSNESS - up to giving HIS life for a contemptible people HE made (John 1:1-3, 14).

While many fellowships pervaded great praise this past weekend, FEW, were compelled in this unchanging message of the apostolic age and whereas the many twists on HIS Truth have millions entrenched in SELFISHNESS, even that to which demands their inheritance now, have they not read – “No one is good except God alone?” Moreover, as parents shouldn’t reward a child conveying bad behavior and whereas an ill-considerate, predominant view of Holy God, Keeper of the Highest Standard is marginalized by great presumption from those HE made – will HE lessen HIS Sovereign Supremacy to rule (cf. Matt.7:21-23)?

 

Today’s Thought “And the Award Goes To…” G. Ward

2 Timothy 2

²³ But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. ²⁴ The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, skillful in teaching, patient when wronged.

 

To be perceived as passive is to be equated with our Lord Jesus. HE didn’t offer contest with some adamantly spreading/spewing controversies lacking eternal implications – because as Maker of Heaven and earth (John 1:1-3, 14), His divinity understood mankind being enamored with ever-evolving points of presumption, so eloquently argued and remained focused on the goal of eternality for any (2 Pe.3:9).

We, who follow accordingly, are called to an exchange similarly; that forsakes temporal, compelling attempts towards obliterating social diseases and political unrest; giving any (of our daily encounters) a chance to know ONE who is still granting peace, resolute deliverance and perfect guidance, while others argue who in these moments may be deemed – the greatest.

 

Today’s Thought “A Tight Fist” G. Ward

Proverbs 15:1

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

 

While it may be difficult to fight with another whose peace disallows their being foolishly reactionary, that scenario could yet offer rage with another determined to spread pain (e.g., hurt people – hurt others…). It’s therefore incumbent on believers in the security the Word of God offers, to prepare - through a preliminary contemplation towards a common, unfortunate inhospitality existent in the marketplace, enough so, that won’t anticipate (ideally so) grey skies becoming clear and objectively spreading the wealth of the Light within – regardless (Matt.5:14-16).

 

Today’s Thought “A Portrait of Mercy” G. Ward

Matthew 5:48

Therefore, you shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

 

Our Heavenly Father has through the Son, introduced the highest standard to mankind, impossible to keep entirely, even that to which is synonymous with the Mosaic Law so that’d we’d observe His Majesty, the Savior’s sacrifice for our sins – because absolutely no righteousness could be found in those HE made. We celebrate Christ righteousness, through a daily consideration of such ransom paid by One; while knowing none are deserving of such grace dispensed, yet we strive to represent well; because those who insist on being called HIS very own – hate the sin that persists in them, so they more rely on the righteousness HE placed in us, asking HIM to use us, for HIS glory…

 

Today’s Thought “Cultivating Faith…” G. Ward

Jude 1

³ Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.

 

There’s a subtlety in greater spiritual disconnect – exacerbated by lack in social reforms and racial insensitivities, political indifference and economic disparities, whereby many ask, “Where is God in all this?” It can more unfold a clear lack to understand the temporal peace and continuity that existed for any portion of this world, always competed with man loving self, over consideration of full devotion to his Maker and service to his neighbor and this is with global implication, transcending epochs.

These obstacles aforementioned won’t ever invite true believer’s interactivity to trust in measures (seemingly so convincing) appearing resolute (cf. 2 Cor.4:3-5). Hearts of men (*Jer.17:9-10) – perpetuating discord, even foolish recruitment of disparities of sorts that impacts generations to come, need the Lord! We’re HIS vessels, commissioned and compelled to share what is resolute, the gospel of Christ. Being citizens of Heaven, invites as many receptive, to an eternal city, welcoming to any, with many rooms and where disparities cease.

 

Today’s Thought “HE is LORD!” G. Ward

Acts 4:12

And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.”

 

Truly, I’m not so enamored with myself that it’s become needful of me, for any to identify knowing, then calling me by my rightful name given me at birth. Moreover, nor do I believe that many who know my name, truly know me and whereas in the days of Jesus, the English language didn’t exist and whereas HIS name in Aramaic was “Yeshua,” I’ll beg you to consider what other languages purport onto the Savior’s name as unique to our linguistic expression, but yet speaks about HIM as the Perfect Redeemer in the same; while others call on His Name frivolously, attributing that knowledge to knowing Him, but fail to surrender accordingly (Luke 6:46).

 

Today’s Thought “Surgery Required” G. Ward

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

 

Living in transparency, particularly - that to which would convey thoughts to any, is both harmful to us and others; but when a practice of God’s Word becomes not just a daily endeavor, but a practice so loved and needed, it cultivates new contemplations, whereby merciful regard is effortless.

The greatest contingency for spiritual success remains; allowing our Lord’s lead; not through mysterious correspondence, but sole trust of HIS written Word. To that end, HE’S never lost a patient (*John 17:10-12). Change Us O God!

 

Today’s Thought “Hot vs. Cold” G. Ward

1 Corinthians 10

²¹ You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons.

 

“Straddling the Fence” is a term of juxtaposing oneself between two opinions at a constant and while many are convinced, they know the Lord, HE insisted that every follower know HIM by doing what HE says (Luke 6:46) and not lip service. There’s an unfortunate pervasion of religious expression acceptable throughout most districts of man and whereas Heaven refuses to see words without activity (Jas.2:14), perhaps some are potentially HIS, but failing miserably on today.

If you’re a true follower, you’ll live accordingly (both privately and publicly demanding of yourself holiness and not an unsanctioned mixture) and then ensure others know HIM (Matt.28:19). Holy God still searches hearts (Jer.17:9-10) … 

 

 

 

Today’s Thought “Tags of Protestantism” G. Ward

Ephesians 1

⁹ He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He set forth in Him, ¹⁰ regarding His plan of the fullness of the times, to bring all things together in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. 

While it’s fine to belong to a local fellowship and to be proud of its caring members, there’s one intent for every congregation existent; to enable others to witness HIS church as agents of hope through the message where true reconciliation from sins exist. Our Lord’s “good pleasure” refers to HIS benevolent and gracious purpose in revealing that gospel message before HIS patience (through our inactivity to teach HIS commands and unbelievers failure to surrender to HIM in everything) runs out. Insofar as your congregation appears better than mine, the same Christ is its Ruler – unless you’ve not believed (cf. 1 John 2:19)? 

 

Today’s Thought “Not Much Time Left” G. Ward

James 1

²¹ Therefore, ridding yourselves of all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. ²² But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.

 

Perhaps on yesterday you were involved in a rightful, reciprocal discipleship gathering? Perhaps the discourse provided by one, or more, involved a minimum of 20 minutes of teaching from God’s Word (and hopefully not mostly motivational, but instructional – so that we may not grow weary in well doing)? If so, how have your meditations circumvented all you heard? Many say they want spiritual growth, but yet won’t absolutely rehearse, or further investigate all that was presented (cf. Ac.17:11), disallowing a compliance necessary to “know” God.

Excuses and the blame game won’t do; for the day provided is our Lord’s patience towards us. Let’s begin as if we never failed, for HE still desires a love relationship with you (2 Pe.3:9).

 

Today’s Thought “I Can Go to the ROCK!” G. Ward

Psalm 85:8

“Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints; but let them not turn back to folly.”

 

Good spiritual leadership compels any who will listen, to an unwavering, perfect guidance, doing so without authoritative tactics that pervade personal accomplishments in/through an immunity towards regression unto the subject matter presented (e.g., a look at me I’m perfect syndrome). Instead, and because they know all are with a propensity to violate best conscience, they’ll offer themselves as a prototype to follow, ONLY, as they follow Perfection (1 Cor.11:1); and whereas the script of these proposed leaders will soon be replaced by a better manuscript, they urge every listener to defer to ONE Authorship who’ll never disappoint and whose guidance remains relevant (beyond epochs and culture).