Today’s Thought “A Do Over” G. Ward

“For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.” 1 Peter 4:6

Declaring another as hopeless more reveals unbelief found in the very one proposing they know HIM (cf. Jer.32:27). The lessons we employ against one plagued in sin cannot be considerate of a different mercy for their (those comfortable in sin) infirmities vs. what our deliverance provided. The categorization of sin’s practice doesn’t belong to man, but loving by prioritizing the gospel’s reach is essential. In other words, daily reminders in castigation and ostracization via sharing with the “fat kid” how necessary it is that he lose weight without walking alongside of the victim (in diet and exercise), forgets their own defiance (cf. 1 Ti.1:15).

As you endeavor to love, remember Holy God pursued you (cf. 2 Pe.3:9); and HE is with capacity for others. Softly and Tenderly, Jesus Is Calling…

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Centrality of Meditations” G. Ward

“The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; who can understand it?” Jeremiah 17:9

Many years ago upon coming to faith in Christ, I witnessed numerous preachers expounding on moral decay along with the erosion of absolutes. Like so many, I perceived every discourse as promoting hopelessness; after all, this is America the hub for hope. Moreover, the gospel is synonymous with the “Good News” right?

Here’s what I neglected to see: Prophets were necessary in conveying moral consciousness unto a rebellious people long before our modernity (cf. Isa.6:9-10). Even the wilderness experience (of the Israelites) and the deliverance therein witnessed great resolution unto adherence to Holy God’s commands (cf. Deut.8), to then witness forgetfulness soon thereafter.

The visuals perceived, have been the promotion in aspirational selfishness altogether distant from what pleasures our Great King (cf. Phil.2:12-13). If we’ve been made brand new, along with not being our own, haven’t most of us really sought emancipation from the greatest Parent ever? GO BACK HOME…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Wintry Sunday” G. Ward

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1

We’re being teased in the Deep South for our approach to 2 to 4 inches of snow anticipated late this afternoon. For my friends exposed to several months of snow, it’s common sense for municipalities therein to invest in equipment that would aid citizen’s travel. However, the preparation here is with a different demand; when snow is said to be on its way, citizens are called to great action – Get to the grocery store and purchase high-caloric, poly-unsaturated foods. Can you say “LOCKDOWN”?

As a pastor, I’ll begin receiving telephone calls later this afternoon with inquiry on Sunday worship (that is, whether it will exist). Forecasts are with prognostications of cleared roads by Saturday. True worshippers sit on pins and needles, contemplating the horror of Sunday cancellation, others weren’t going anyhow…

Happy Friday! (Emmanuel, there will be church on Sunday!)

Today’s Thought “To Be or Not to…” G. Ward

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.” Luke 16:31

Offense upon hearing great concern and question pertinent to your faith should present answers first (1 Pe.3:15). The proposed antagonist is ultimately the beggar merely desiring truth and as you were once the outsider allowing the hypocrisy from others guide your indecision, they too need an authoritative presentation; then deeper interrogation of the facts offered.

Unfortunately, great multitudes of spiritual warriors neglect personal and corporate study of God’s word that enables confidence. While it may be okay on today to not have an answer, it’s shameful when proclaims of “I Know Him” continue (cf. Ro.10:8), presupposing what scripture might be saying, making the antagonist a terrorist…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Follow the Leader” G. Ward

“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15

On yesterday we witnessed great induction from varied legislators into our House of Representatives. The first order of business that gained their entry by numerous constituencies went violated; while ironically denying a process promoting even better ethical accountability among legislators.

Although controversial and horribly divisive to perceive, it may lend discount to credibility with some that subtracts from follower’s trust of due process. When governance is with disrepute, anarchy may soon become a consideration. On the other hand, when Christ alone is the demand from humankind, righteousness is un-questionably the objective for the beholder of grace “and the world can’t do me no harm”…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Limited Scope” G. Ward

“As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Matthew 3:11

Being responsible in task or people can truly be ever encompassing. Success for the mission is best perceived more through inadequacy than conceit. When humility becomes the pursuit, the one responsible in carrying out the task is less prone to error, recognizing importance towards the initial message given. Over confidence may produce artistry only appreciated by the sculptor; while others gaze at what’s supposed to be a masterpiece, confused (ultimately) as to what it is (*2 Cor.5:20)…

Happy Tuesday!

Today's Thought "The Candy Jar" G. Ward

 "And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance." Romans 5:3

The illustrious candy jar was perhaps the most cherished phenomenon for children of my generation. It caused salivary gland's immediate secretion, comparable to an American's pursuit in winning a lottery. Money however was the great separator and although it was regarded as "penny candy" most children were depleted of one cent.

The indiscriminate terms of salvation is without economic parameter and when pursued righteously, understands life given is additionally without guarantee of a consistent ability to ascertain the finer delicacies (indicative of 363 more days in utter happiness without strife), even with means to purchase; but more demands a permanent joy in knowing that the sweetest Name I know, knows me...

Happy Monday!