Reverence

Today’s Thought Reverence G. Ward

“Come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, And we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you would hear His voice,” Psalm 95:6-7

Carelessly and frivolously the name of Holy God is being blasphemed by so many, perhaps even by you and me. We’ve been taught that only extreme cases of disregard are applicable such as using His name in vain (we all know the word). Vain carries a “useless” connotation. Arrival at the throne of mercy always regards the Author of mercy as “All Powerful.” King Solomon understood His Majesty best in Ecclesiastes 5:1-2, “Guard your steps as you go to the house of God and draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools; for they do not know they are doing evil. Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few.”

Casual conversations with man generally are socially permissive only with those familiar to us. With those not so familiar, we should extend professional salutations and less controversy (i.e. the life you save might be your own). Howbeit then with the God of every generation, ours is so familiar? Some would bodaciously reply,” I know Him.”  Let me serve you a reminder towards vigilance, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord (Isa.55:8). Happy Friday!

The Mechanic's Car

Today’s Thought The Mechanic’s Car G. Ward

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2

In my experience and perhaps yours, the auto mechanic’s vehicle is seemingly always in a state of disrepair. The noise that emanates from his motor is immediately explicable through his conveying awareness of the problem with a great intentionality of repairing it soon. His tools of the trade are handy and he’s entirely proficient in using them. His clientele have a tremendous regard for his integrity and timeliness with their vehicles. They boast profusely unto others with car problems about knowing the quintessential mechanic.

He labors day and night until the work is finished, more consumed with the clients than eating and resting properly. Days turn into weeks and weeks into months, to never resolve what was wrong with his vehicle.

Yes, a sad storyline, but often our reality. Our position in Christ however, should address the entirety of what exists in each of us; mind, body and soul. Warning, vacation (i.e. seclusion from routine) most certainly can aid in shedding perspective for the journey given, but the panacea is daily intimacy with Infinite Wisdom. Our submission to Holy God’s way leads to appreciating every facet of life. Therefore, oversight with smaller particulars becomes a thing of the past, obliterating the sound the cantankerous car once made. Happy Thursday!

High and Lifted Up

Today’s Thought High and Lifted Up G. Ward

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.” John 14:12

In my ministerial life I’ve had some huge opportunities in expressing the things of Holy God. Many of the platforms afforded me were altogether overwhelming, particularly leading up to the promised event. The first 2 minutes (via speech) seemingly can be the most difficult, because the responsibility to remain obscure is always the focal point for the one seeking to glorify Holy God. Moreover, the disseminator of Truth knows the power in belonging far more than the hearer, because theirs is an implicit trust in the One soon to be portrayed, even with a manuscript (i.e. is it concise and succinct?).

There however can be a problem with some who are afforded a special venue (particularly in this church culture) with an audience placating a great feedback with the message presented. Too many amens or hallelujahs may very well subtract from an earnest desire in seeing honor and glory extended to God alone (cf. Ro. 12:3). Also it can promote a self-sufficiency on a next statement that could violate the entirety of the discourse presented.

Jesus, our more excellent example, lent Himself to nothing outside great surrender (Mk.1:35). He didn’t depend on His eloquence, nor did His delivery with any discourse (through parable, soliloquy, or otherwise) derive from man’s accolades towards Him. He shared because of His compassion towards man (Mt.9:36, 2 Pe.3:9). *Although He shared, we should remember that His ministry opportunity was a limited one in earth (only as to time), because He was soon to be with the Father (Jn.14:12). Be careful to know that the greater things He spoke about don’t speak to an empowerment that would match His, but would lend itself to a continuation in discipling others (in Christ). We’re nothing apart from Him (Ps.15:1, Jn.15:5) and our being like Him comes when we get to where He is (but we’re still on this earth). Please don’t let your defense mechanisms dictate your pursuit in eliminating sin in your life because you feel you can’t attain towards perfection, so I’ll let frivolity withstand.  You’re called to be perfect, so keep pressing (Php.3:12-14, Jas.1:4)!  Until then, know this; “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.⁹ “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa.55:8-9).

Happy Wednesday!

A Rare Rebuttal

Today’s Thought A Rare Rebuttal G. Ward

“But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.” 1 Peter 3:15

Rarely, do I respond to some entirely despondent to unadulterated truth. We however, should be accountable to our discerning Holy God’s word, while inspiring others to follow suit. Although we may think our discernment is heart-felt (among our supposed constituency), we must understand that there’s a network in believer-ship that will never ascribe to an independent way towards Holy God (cf. Ac. 17:11).

This blog on today is a response to an article written by an Associate Pastor at our church. His daily blog, like mine, seeks to promote an independent evaluation in truth by every believer. Furthermore, it determines that the theology given to our great–grandparents is yet sufficient for today (Heb.13:8). This article asks a question; how important are prophets today?

First, let's agree on Jesus as God in the flesh (Jn.1:1-2), however Jesus should never be equated as a mere prophet, whether designated head or not (the Muslims declare that, not Christians). The passage (Heb.1:1-2) emphasizes a freedom expression for the NT believer. It shares a priesthood for every one confessing HIM as Lord by admonishing new Jewish believers to not settle in to the ways of Judaism. In times past means that's the way things were. The eschatological implication of last days indicate for the time remaining HE speaks through the Son (via the Spirit of Christ - cf. Jn.16:5-14) = God speaks with His people direct according to His word (cf. Ro.10:8). People of God now expound on Truth (He [Truth] is a Person - Jn. 14:6) solely within the parameters of Holy God's word (and it's enough for all our lifetime). In times past it took a prophet to declare the things of God, now the Holy Spirit is on the inside of every believer sharing and confirming the things of God (cf. Ro.8:9, Eph.1:13-14). *Remember, But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. ¹⁴ He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you (Jn.16:13-14).

 

*Now exactly why would any believer need a prophet when they have Holy God on the inside? Those who equip others, whether you believe them to be a prophet, apostle or otherwise, equip other believers for their ability to reproduce other believers (Eph.4:11-12), creating a reliance on Holy God, independent of man's potential error (and please know that all of us are subject to err). If modern day believers want to believe it takes a prophet to declare God's work, so be it! Amazingly, limitations about Holy God are being exacerbated by the many who await such a cause. Moreover, the same one declaring the things of God are the ones needing God! Considering we were created from the dust of the earth (all of us), it's like dirt telling more dirt to clean up! Man is entirely limited, but God is infinite wisdom, so whose report do I need to support? There would be less prophets (particularly in this modernity) if the OT rule in Dt. 18:20-22 applied ( But the prophet who speaks a word presumptuously in My name which I have not commanded him to speak, or which he speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’ ²¹ You may say in your heart, ‘How will we know the word which the Lord has not spoken?’ ²² When a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not come about or come true, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.).

Those still looking for a sign and a wonder are just not trusting God (Mt. 12:³⁸ Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” ³⁹ He answered, “A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.)! His desire is for a loving, personal, most intimate relationship with mankind (2 Pe.3:9).

Isn't it amazing that so called modern day prophets always have something good to say to today's believers (as if they're even a little compliant with Holy God's word)? That same modern prophesy, most certainly speaks to health and wealth matters (positively so), while the prophet of old pronounced droughts, eminent death and exile for God's chosen (because of their obstinacy)? Have we overcome ours (cf. Ro.3:10, 23)?

Happy Tuesday!

Hierarchal Rule

Today’s Thought Hierarchal Rule G. Ward

“It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.” 1 Timothy 3:1

 

To God Be The Glory Great Things He Has Done echoes from church house to church house. What now is it that subtracts from this discipline? I believe it’s man pursuit of notoriety that lends him trouble (cf. Mt.16:24). Why can’t he or she serve more inconspicuously?

Tell me about your Pastor. How is he perceived? The Prophet Hosea wrote about a people belonging to God perishing in faith because leaders failed them (Hos.4:6) in sharing unadulterated truth. The job now and then was to present the words form Holy God in a way to promote perfect obeisance (cf. Eph.4:11-12) for those desiring to know HIM. It must first begin with exemplary leadership (1 Ti. 3:2-4). When there is an insistence on titles like bishop, apostle or reverend that prefaces a surname given, it very well could diminish Holy God from getting the glory. What did the saints call Paul, Peter, James and John? I believe they all taught from the letter of God by seeking to raise OVERSEERS for churches. The translated word for overseer can mean bishop or clergyman. Unfortunately, we now have services that exact more of a hierarchal stance for those already designated overseer (how ignorant!).

My voice is said to be distinctive, having a deeper octave. Within our congregation there exists a little boy who was shopping with his mother in a local grocery store. I happened to walk in that same store whereby he replied to his mother, “hey Mom, there’s God!” He was referring to me. She later shared with me that although this was hysterical, it deserved some strong explanation (cf.Dt.6:4-7). If we’re not careful, we help in establishing more demagoguery amongst our overseers, than humility intended. There’s a fine line between honor and worship; be sure to remain on honor’s side. Moreover, please don’t write to me assuming I was suggesting you cease referring to these as reverend, bishop or otherwise. Call me anything, but late to lunch or dinner! Happy Monday!  

An Agenda

Today’s Thought An Agenda G. Ward

“For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the wicked will perish.” Psalm 1:6

Sadly, divorce rates for the church don’t differ with the stats for the un-churched. Promiscuity is also rampant in both worlds. Both worlds do more theorizing than necessary concerning the plight of mankind. These observations rely more on historical accounts of man’s achievements throughout history that are entirely limited and inevitably inconsequential. It has to do with “new and improved.” The innovativeness of our greatest grandparent’s era is now recognized as medieval (truly wonderful for them, yet totally regressive for us). Moreover the contemplations of man contain only temporal antidotes, yet we run hurriedly towards them, only to be satisfied until the next let down (as there will be let down).

We must begin to proclaim our insufficiency apart from Holy God (Jn. 15:5). Generations may follow to become progressively worse, even forgetting that there is God (cf.Jdg.2:10). If our response regards it as an arduous process vs. immediate reconciliation towards righteousness, we conclude that it may be too difficult for the Master. I dare not! Happy Friday!   

A Struggle Within

Today’s Thought A Struggle Within G. Ward

“If I should say, “My foot has slipped,” Your lovingkindness, O LORD, will hold me up. When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.” Psalm 94:18-19

How many vehicles are you seeing each day in your birth year? Not many, I suppose? Perhaps that opportunity is only found at a car show featuring classics, or a museum at best.

Today I want to draw a dichotomy of man vs. car. Both are machines of sorts. The internal components wear and either have to be replaced or repaired and the exterior must be revitalized often. Once created, degeneration and un-appreciation becomes the experience of both. Moreover, a driver is needed for both.

There is however, ability in man not found in car; his driving capability is self-contained and naturally won’t need an additional occupant in his viability. His Creator endowed him with self-will. His manual (Holy God’s word) however desires that his Master (Creator) always maintains full control (Pr.3:5-6). Instead, he’ll just keep on driving his way, considering only the road in his purview to never consider what truly lies ahead (cf. Mt.7:13-14). Happy Thursday!

Grace Cheapened

Today’s Thought Grace Cheapened G. Ward

“Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” Romans 8:35

There are absolutes found only in the words from Holy God. His guarantees are the claimants most regarded by His people, in that they serve as gentle reminders that our guidance is given by the Sufficient One (cf. Ps.148:13, Isa.37:16).

Knowing all the promises of God can be devoid of the holistic contingency in any passage. For example, great and mighty things have been the pronounced word unto Israel numerous times, however, when we read it, we fail to discover the reciprocity for Holy God’s people to adhere towards (we merely want to place claimants on the great and mighty things, cf.Dt.28).

God’s love for us certainly is unwavering, but there is a cost associated (Eph.2:8-10); it’s called true surrender unto the Master.  Relinquishing a mindset (that would lead to traditional activity) of old is absolutely essential (Ro.12:2). Ultimately, faith requires total submission unto the Owner. Defense mechanisms stated like “no one is perfect,” or “we’re still in the flesh” is not warranted (Mt.5:48). We’re called to truer diligence (2 Ti.2:15, Heb.11:6). “You've been raised on the Message of the faith and have followed sound teaching. Now pass on this counsel to the followers of Jesus there, and you'll be a good servant of Jesus. Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we've thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We're banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers” (1 Timothy 4:6-10 The Message). Happy Wednesday!

Interacting With Despair

Today’s Thought Interacting With Despair G. Ward

“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Romans 13:1

Mr. Grigoras was the most excellent example of “you can’t judge a book by its cover.” He was a stout man of 5’8, 220 lbs., bald and clean shaven that never wore a smile. In my senior year of high school (Samuel C. Mumford High, Detroit, Michigan); I had the distinct honor in being taught American Government in a way that captivated my interest currently. Moreover the demeanor in him I thought existent was far from actualized.

On an ordinary day in our class, many of us began grumbling over the potential presidential election. Ours was more despair than hope. Although we had been taught by Mr. Grigoras a system of checks and balances in a democratic society, our verbosity exacted more socialism. He gave us this platform for several minutes before interrupting us with utter disgust on his face. He reminded us of a process introduced earlier that precluded anyone (namely, the 3 branches of government; executive, legislative or judicial) from operating unilateral of each other and that because this process is such a tedious one(4 years electorate), it could most certainly impede better prioritization, but would not utterly destroy existential prosperity. I can tell you that although I understood what Mr. Grigoras was implying, my acceptance of this was much more heartfelt on the day I examined the passages stating that Holy God ordained every form of government (whether good or bad – perceivably) for His glory (cf. Ro.13:1-3,Tit.3:1-2).

You may celebrate more partisan behavior than God’s appointment, but realize it ain’t about you anyhow (cf.Php.2:13, Col.1:10)! Happy Tuesday!

Vicarious Living

Today’s Thought Vicarious Living G. Ward

“All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.” Hebrews 11:13

Some years ago I sought planning a vacation for my family that would include my Mother-in-law. Unlike my wife and children, my Mother-in-law had not ventured too far from home and I thought it a great gesture to include her on this 7 day Western Caribbean Cruise. After purchasing the tickets, it was important to share with my wife and her mother the importance in being on time. Indifferent to other occasions my Mother-in-law arrived quite early and prepared with the biggest luggage ever.

Upon arriving at the shipyard I began to be fascinated for her (from Jonesboro, GA., to 3 countries in 7 days).

Her apathy prevailed for the entirety of the trip. The exotic food meant very little. The excursions were too death defying. The Caribbean climate was too balmy. Sadly, the only time we could get her to vacate her cabin was at mealtime.

I ended this trip expressive of it being the very last time she would accompany me anywhere. Since then I’ve recanted. I now understand how she did exactly what was desired and more, not what I thought was important to do.

Many have viewed the patriarchs of the faith (cf. Heb.11) as disenfranchised. Their service in earth seemingly went un-noticed and endured tremendous tragedy. However, their eternity most certainly is rewarding.

The narcissism in our society being so extreme demands that we should do what makes us happy, while yet calling HIM Master? Principled living through Christ Jesus demands; “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me” (Mt. 16:24). Happy Monday (I’m still not taking my Mother-in -law on another trip!)!

Extraordinarily His

Today’s Thought Extraordinarily His G. Ward

“But HE WHO BOASTS IS TO BOAST IN THE LORD. For it is not he who commends himself that is approved, but he whom the Lord commends.” 2 Corinthians 10:17-18

Certain days arrive that have me celebrating all the potential soon to be presented. Then there are other days I regard (sadly) as ordinary, whereby lethargy and mundane have been my necklace. There is however, an earnest attempt to extrapolate how each day will pan out for every believer. That happens as we identify with the One who enables each day’s existence (cf. Eph.3:20-21). The alarm was set, but didn’t have to awaken you. The opportunity in another day’s journey, believed that individuals awakened would exact “Truth” (Jn.14:6). For many of us sharing benevolently, or advocating in some regard (whether through vocation or retirement) each day, there perhaps could be an element of perpetuated self-glorification involved; particularly if we fail to express Who the author is in our exuberance (cf. Ps. 42:5,105:2,109:30). Happy Friday!

Maturity

Today’s Thought “Maturity” G. Ward

^“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-4

There’s a most excellent song popularized by Frank Sinatra; It Was A Very Good Year.  It chronicles a view regarding male relationships with females. This anthology speaks to superficial love.

 The song introduces a seventeen year old male, strongly anticipating a summer encounter with a young girl from a small town, whereby his visit would be made more complete as a result of the continuity shared. The song then records a similar view for his 21 year old mindset. As he grows older (still 21), he rationalizes the idea of interacting with city girls and his being tempted by their aromatic hair. Moreover, there’s an implied promiscuous ideology given that mentioned appearances as dramatically different once the couple shared in the moment. At 35, still a very good year seemingly, but now the young man values a woman more certain of her destiny. His interactivity with life’s flow (i.e. marriage becomes strongly entertained) is no longer a subliminal thought, yet moves frontal, due to his incessant exposure. He then culminates this song with having reached what is referred as an “autumn.” I must admit, I love the obscurity in songs of old! This autumn demands a better cognizance of the real meaning of life. Moreover, that in what was (bodily), sinks in a degeneration never witnessed at 17, 21, or 35 (cf. Ps. 90:10).

The progression of life need not include the level of frivolity expressed in this song. Our days can be excellent because our Heavenly Father created them all (Ps.118:24)! Seek to walk therein, so that the days will proclaim the sentiment, “it was a very good year…” Happy Thursday!

Purpose Established

Today’s Thought Purpose Established G. Ward

“So that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1:10

Democracy promotes a competiveness that certainly can be regarded as amoral. Moreover, it will often preclude a philosophy of vagrancy or mediocrity as entirely unacceptable. This structure (of what is deemed as successful) is decided by the ones who have succeeded. Unfortunately, this status is often attributable to the higher socio-economic citizenry. It’s their success that becomes an aim for the commoner vs. anyone across socio-economic lines having discovered their own purpose that may be without greater financial reward. Motivational specialists author manuscripts sharing every exciting possibility of future victory. Life coaches are employed by the down trodden, comparable to hiring a personal trainer as to health and fitness. Altogether, more important a quest demands that any pursuit afforded man, shouldn’t emanate from a sociological definition of success, but should examine his or her own eternality – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away (Mt.24:35).”

Sons of Disobedience

Today’s Thought Sons of Disobedience G. Ward

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

At 12 years old my parents divorced. My brother and I decided to reside with my father, while my 2 sisters remained with my mother. My Dad’s employment occupied the majority of his time. It allowed my brother and me far too much freedom for our unfledged mindsets. Bored to death one particular day, I decided to call (via telephone) what was a very good neighbor for us near our family home. This lady was altogether kind towards the entirety of our family, but her confronting my brother over a job incomplete (lawn care) incited me towards that to which many of you exacerbate; “blood is thicker than water!” She scolded my brother desiring to hear immediate contrition from him. My brother in his usual way lied through his teeth and she knew it. The camaraderie once shared with this lady and I immediately capsized. I loved my trifling brother and no one (outside of me) could talk to him as such!

Although this event took place 2 years prior to this phone call, my having been a son to disobedience raised its ugly head that day (cf. Ro.12:17, 1 Co. 13:5-6). For what seemed to be a lifetime (5 minutes) on the telephone, I sought to disguise my voice in what was supposed to be a crank call (revealing the treachery of my heart, including the use of profanities) whereby at the end of this horrific discourse she replied, “Ok Gregory, you have a good day!” Hanging up immediately, I stared out in space without blinking for the next 2 hours.

Years later, after I married and had children, I sojourned to this woman’s house to pay homage. Her hospitality was as it always had been (very encouraging). She proceeded to ask a host of questions concerning my life. I called for my family to exit the car so they could meet this lady instrumental in the best I had presented. Her being elderly didn’t desire we leave until the last question. The lady asked, “Gregory, what do you do for a living?” Forgetting about the most profane conversation a child could have had with an adult, I replied un-hesitately, “I’m a Pastor.” Silence never seemed so loud. We gathered ourselves while exiting the home I once loved (across the street from my family home), to never see or hear from Ms. Powell again. My prayer is that she didn’t die thinking of all Pastors as she thought of me (cf. Eph 2:10). Happy Monday!

Taking Rest

By noon, Elijah had started making fun of them, taunting, "Call a little louder—he is a god, after all. Maybe he's off meditating somewhere or other, or maybe he's gotten involved in a project, or maybe he's onvacation. You don't suppose he's overslept, do you, and needs to be waked up?" They prayed louder and louder, cutting themselves with swords and knives—a ritual common to them—until they were covered with blood.” 1 Kings 18:27-28 The Message

What exactly is “burn out” for the believer in contrast to the work ethic the Savior demonstrated (cf. 1 Pe.4:1-2)?  Louis Pasteur (1822-1895), who Invented Pasteurization, once said, “Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goals: my strength lies solely in my tenacity.” 

In our pursuit of technological advancement (as personally innovative or through consumerism) hard work can be entirely frowned upon. Manufacturers of every kind are now seeking those individuals who can minimize what potentially can be viewed as arduous, while demanding efficiency. Arguably, this can translate into a greed instrumental in out-sourcing (employment matters) to third world countries and causation towards plummeting numbers among white and blue collar manufacturers.

More imperative is a contemplation of thanksgiving that would articulate, “I’m thankful for things as well as they are (knowing that many are even more depleted),” while adopting Pasteur’s epigram that could translate, any desired goal is never unilateral of hard work and produces tremendous dividends. Trust more in the Owner of the vineyard and work because of His enabling power through you (cf. Ps.37:5).

Happy Thursday!

Fun, In Moderation

“For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13
 

Long ago and to date, I’ve been perceivably gregarious, while actually being a borderline introvert. I’m so a fan of great attitude in people that I’ve often created a paradigm of tremendous satisfaction within. Moreover, I’ve been a major over compensator for those couriers of saddened disposition.

A pursuit in true spirituality will reveal how necessary it is in making the most of moments.

Furthermore, it presents brevity of life that understands the essence of “going through” vs. wallowing at a constant therein. Like the Apostle James, I want to thank Holy God for allowing displeasure, because it enables a better directive to ascent unto greater activity (cf. Jas.1:2-3). Happy Wednesday!

Independent Thinking

“They abhor me and stand aloof from me, And they do not refrain from spitting at my face.”

Job 30:10

Like some of you, I’ve encountered a great observation for contemplation (author unknown): Morality is doing what is right, regardless of what you are told. Religion is doing what you are told, regardless of what is right.

The approach to life for unbelievers is marred with numerous defense mechanisms. Altogether, these mechanisms emanate from feelings of inadequacy; particularly in contrast to inherent knowledge of good vs. evil. A consideration of repentance from a violator of morality is always the best resolve (cf.Ac.3:19), yet when that same offender identifies with their transgression as something too difficult to extinguish, defense will rise the more. When this happens, anyone found seeking righteousness through holy activity (namely church folks), become the brunt for criticism.

Let’s not forget the plight of Jesus for you and me included the worse kind of this unfortunate behavior, being forever mindful that what we really deserve is death and punishment.

Moreover, such were some of us (1 Co.6:11)!

Despair, Not An Option

“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.”

1 John 3:2

How many friends do you have? Immediately our mindsets ponder who then is genuinely interested in my well- being; those would be regarded as friends. I believe however there’s a missing component with our determinations. Those genuinely concerned comrades are entirely obscured by our antithetical perpetuation of walking by sight and not faith.

Jesus, our greatest Ally (i.e. Friend) shared how best to exhibit care. At John 17, vv.20-21, Jesus prayed to the Father; “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; ²¹that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.” 

Magnificently and marvelously, our Savior prayed for us thousands of years before our conception. He thought of us then and continues advocating for us now. Our friendships are most difficult to assess (altogether), because the packaging is often entirely ambiguous due to our short-sightedness.

Many missionaries here and abroad are praying for you each day without regard to your past imperfects. Let’s begin celebrating the interdependence of such a wonderful fellowship in Christ!

Ultimately, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus…”