Today’s Thought “That’s What You Get Inside of Cracker Jacks…” G. Ward

“^I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book.” Revelation 22:18-19

Cracker Jacks is still a most excellent snack consisting of popcorn (coated in molasses) and peanuts. Most every American alive today are very familiar with it and at one time have delighted themselves therein. When I was a child, the challenge was weighing the delight. Meaning, while the taste was great, every small box included a prize at the bottom. It compelled every child to finish quickly to unfold a great mystery. Most certainly, while ingesting this snack, you could hear the jingle of the commercial from television chanting, “What do you want when you gotta eat somethin', and it's gotta be sweet, and it’s gotta be a lot, and you gotta have it NOW..What do you want? Lip-smackin', Whip-crackin', Paddywhackin’, Knickaknackin’ Silabawhackin', Scalawhackin’, Crackerjackin, Cracker Jack! What do you get when you open the top, and you look inside and smack your lips, and turn it over and spill it out? What do you get? Lip-smackin', Whip-crackin', Paddywhackin’, Olagazackin’, Infolackin’, Alliganackin', Crackerjackin’, Cracker Jack! Candy-coated popcorn, peanuts and a prize... That's what you get with Cracker Jack!”

Contrary to this notion of treats that produce prizes, we (Americans) embark on an imminent celebration of this nation’s independence (July 4). We’re discovering how mediocrity births waywardness. While being very surprised after supping on the tremendous treats of Americanism, we discover at the bottom of this presumed joy lies misery. Freedom has been extended, yet without parameters. It certainly has made man braggadocios concerning his ability to do anything (cf. Jn.15:5b), while forgetting the premise of his existence in a free land. Expressions exacerbated like, “God and country,” have enabled an equal perspective with our Supreme Master and this strange land (cf. 1 Pe.2:11). Although reading how God is jealous (Ex. 20:5, 34:14, Dt.4:24, 5:9, 6:15, Jos.24:19), from our inception, we’ve adopted governmental principles (i.e. The Constitution) in legislating our productivity vs. implicit trust of the Master of the Universe (God’s Word). Founded on the principles of Holy God to now become oblivious to what HE’s saying, we include every illicit ideology’s pervasiveness to infect generations to come. Let’s go eat some barbeque and see some fireworks…

“All that generation also were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the LORD, nor yet the work which He had done for Israel.” Joshua 2:10

Happy Thursday!

 

Today’s Thought “Turn the Other Cheek” G. Ward

 

“My son, if you have become surety for your neighbor, Have given a pledge for a stranger,
 If you have been snared with the words of your mouth, Have been caught with the words of your mouth, Do this then, my son, and deliver yourself; Since you have come into the hand of your neighbor,
Go, humble yourself, and importune your neighbor. Give no sleep to your eyes,
nor slumber to your eyelids; Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hunter’s hand
and like a bird from the hand of the fowler.” Proverbs 6:1-5

 

Our greatest Leader (Jesus Christ) rendered a series of antithetical reactions to society’s greater dilemmas (cf. Mt.5:39). Most are quick to share advice, but that counsel is super limited to humanity’s scope, compelling others in being more reactionary than patient (cf. Eph.4:26).

Ms. Duncan was our long time gym instructor (grades 1-8). In a day where fat kids were husky at best, she sought very excellently to keep every student in great physical shape. Every student looked forward to this class weekly. I recall one day our eighth grade class was entirely unruly, so she made the entire class sit on the bleachers the whole hour vs. ordinary gym activities. Many of us thought this denial was totally wrong, so during recess my early leadership in devilment prevailed. Her car was parked in the same spot for many years and I thought to take a pen and let the air out of one of her tires (so that it might appear flat). My leadership was so compelling that I had an audience protecting my frivolity by blocking my mischief with their bodies in such number that the parents that volunteered as chaperones would never discover such a violation.

Later that day, Ms. Duncan, along with the Principal visited our class to inquire who could have done such a heinous thing. She assured the class that no punishment would be given towards this person upon confession. Knowing Ms. Duncan for eight years, I knew her heart as genuinely saddened. I quickly raised my hand, admitting my greatest indiscretion at that school. She and the principal walked out of that class and although her prefacing said, “no punishment,” it was the worst I’ve ever been exposed.

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Germination Stifled” G. Ward

 

 

To Adam he said, "Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, 'You must not eat from it,' "Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life.” Genesis 3:17

 

I recall how growing up my Dad took such pride in our lawn each year. Our landscape was meticulously arranged, accentuating our house with a special je ne sais quoi (French- A quality or attribute that is difficult to describe or express.). Red waxed begonias lined our perfectly trimmed evergreens and our lawn was the most excellent Kentucky Bluegrass, cut with an elevated blade to render plush-ness, absolutely void of a singular weed. To maintain this appearance involved two annual fertilizations, spring thatchings and a careful cognizance of the neighbors (on both sides) recklessly allowing their grass to blow towards our lawn causing what was perceivably immediate germination’s occurrence (because although their lawns were aesthetically pleasing, they didn’t match ours).

 

What Gregory does this have to do with a devotional thought for today? Simple. There are weeds (i.e. great contaminants) throughout life’s journey and the contingency for proper growth demands our seeking great fertilizer (Holy God’s Word = daily) and further insists that we disallow others selfish plights to permeate our spiritual beings.

 

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “An Endless Pursuit” G. Ward

 

“Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

 

We have a store/gas station here in Georgia called Quick Trip. I have to admit to you that it’s become the most difficult thing for me to pass one of these stores without getting a cup of java (coffee). I frequent these stores so often that I always have the correct change necessary. I’m bothered however with their operation’s diverse selling. Someone is always holding up the line purchasing astronomical amounts of lottery tickets. Other addicts like me need our quick fix right away, lacking compassion for other addictions.

The words from Holy God promote peace through great reliance on His presence. Perhaps we’re not chasing the dollar as some do, but we’re plagued categorically with a form of pursuing unrighteousness (cf. Ro.3:10). Our resolve has to establish a better practice (2 Ti. 2:15) of implicit trust. Our incessant purporting of Jesus as Lord should be evidenced by many (Mt. 5:16). It’s said, “We may be the only Bible they’ll ever read…”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Hieroglyphics” G. Ward

 

“You shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead nor make any tattoo marks on yourselves: I am the Lord.” Leviticus 19:28

 

The ancient Egyptians used a form of picture writing (i.e. symbols) to convey a perceived ideology. In these modern times, tattoos are synonymous to these past conveyances. Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary's article on tattoos says, "Any kind of self-laceration or marking of the body was prohibited among the Hebrew people. Such cuttings were associated with pagan cults that tattooed their followers while they mourned the dead" (1986).

 Many believers are with castigation concerning the diaspora of understanding that demands this not being our home (earth) and we’re not our own (cf. 1 Co.6:19-20). Moreover, pragmatic thinking observes momentary bliss can often lead to future hazards. Meaning the tattoo on your shoulder now can/will be on your thigh when and if you get to my age… I’m just saying!!!

Happy Wednesday!

Today's Thought "Old Yeller" G. Ward

Matthew 6:34

“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
...
"Old Yeller" is a classic Walt Disney film emanating from a classic novel written by Fred Gipson (1956). It begins with what seemingly is a stray dog and two brothers. The younger brother becomes immediately infatuated
with the dog, while the older brother does his best to dismiss the dog. These boys as typical wanderers encounter great danger and the dog saves the life of the younger brother enabling a family bond un-breakable. The older brother established the greater bond of the two.
On last night while traveling home, I witnessed a dog crossing a busy highway to then encounter numerous cars whereby two hit the small dog. Before the dog was killed, it cried out one last time. This squealing echoed in my head all night. Tremendous grief encompassed my typical Sunday night wind down.
Awakening this morning (although yet sorrowful), enabled great peace regarding the brevity of life concerning every living thing (cf. Ps.90:10, Mt. 24:35). I'm so thankful for the perspective in Christ Jesus that serves as a reminder of how Faithful He is (La. 3:22-23).
Back to "Old Yeller," Travis the older brother had the misfortune of gunning down this most excellent family pet due to the dog contracting rabies while attempting to war with a rabid wolf, seeking to save the life of the older brother (who initially didn't want him).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “It Takes A Village…” G. Ward

 

“Since I am afflicted and needy, Let the Lord be mindful of me. You are my help and my deliverer; Do not delay, O my God.” Psalm 40:17

 

I was overwhelmed with intrigue to hear of one of NBA’s great players (Derek Anderson) authoring a book entitled, “Stamina.” It charters a course in his personal life that enabled his existence by revealing great dysfunction of times past. He became a father at age fourteen. Both his parents abandoned him at an early age more considerate of illegal substance abuse. Sleeping in gymnasiums and pretending to be asleep at friends so he could have shelter for the night. Strategically, visiting many around the dinner hour because then food might be offered.

Sure, for any of us, it does take a village to ensure decency prevails, but there must be willing villagers. Although our insights are limited (until one shares current difficulties), it doesn’t preclude our hospitality diminishing ever. In times past, most everyone adopted an ideology that understood our being created to do good works (Eph.2:10) as a result of a tremendous grace given. While society teaches only doing those things that further oneself (i.e. personal gluttony), Holy God still compels man to be his brother’s keeper. Be on the lookout for another Derek Anderson. Not because He’ll turn into a successful pro basketball player, but that he’ll have an opportunity to extend hospitality towards another that may have a similar need. Choose today to be a villager.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Never Would Have Made It…” G. Ward

 

“Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.” Romans 7:4

 

Gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp recorded what is a great reminder for Believers everywhere. It substantiates what the entire gospel is about; how Holy God prompted His love towards us, while we were still sinners (Ro. 5:8). In 2008 when my Dad died, we were privileged to have Marvin Sapp sing this to preface my preaching his funeral. My siblings and me were extremely close to our father and were absolutely grief stricken without restraint. Prior to that song, I rehearsed over and over again my inability to facilitate such a cause, in that my tears were profuse. What I anticipated as rightful became the most difficult thing in my life. Brother Marvin took the pulpit by storm. He prefaced the song with a testimonial concerning having lost his dad a year prior. His condolences were heartfelt and ordered by our Sufficient Lord.

Many times the opportunity in service unto Holy God may seem next to impossible, there is however a tremendous comfort in knowing, What A Friend We Have In Jesus (Jn.15:14-15) and He’ll Never Leave Us, Nor Forsake Us (Heb. 13:5b)!”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “An Indictment” G. Ward

 

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because you have rejected knowledge,
I also will reject you from being My priest.
Since you have forgotten the law of your God,
I also will forget your children.” Hosea 4:6

 

As believers, we should know our purpose without question. We’ve received the most excellent gift of salvation. We sing “Go Tell it On the Mountain” and have more internalized that notion than ensure others are gifted.

Early in my salvation experience I read a small manuscript written by author DawsonTrotman entitled “Born to Reproduce.” It was cataclysmic in my salvation experience. The entire transcript is now available online (in PDF) if you’re interested in revival.

Mr. Trotman was founder to the Navigators ministry. In evangelical circles, they’re renowned as superior soul winners (cf. Pr.11:30). Their founder shared a more excellent avenue of praise (cf. Hos.4:6). It was effective and productive. It began with submission by prayer, then proactivity. This prefacing in prayer sometimes lasted for weeks before setting forth in presumed confidence in what Holy God desired (cf. Isa.55:8-9). We’ve now arrived at a time whereby a terrible misnomer is perpetuated. More ecstatic praise concerning what HE’s done for me than what he can do for others. Mis-appropriated scriptures about “I was glad when they said unto me,” “joy cometh in the morning” and “all these things shall be added to you,” keep us from going and making disciples of every people group (Mt.28:19). Shamefully, most of our very own are being condemned to hell because we’re on every social network with spiritual sayings vs. sharing and living out the creed of Truth (Jn.14:6). *Amazingly, the shouting never begins until the music starts…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought Godzilla vs. Mothra G. Ward

 

“Why are the nations in an uproar
And the peoples devising a vain thing?
 The kings of the earth take their stand
And the rulers take counsel together
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
 “Let us tear their fetters apart
And cast away their cords from us!” Psalm 2:1-3

 

We live in an age now where kids don’t spend nearly the kind of time playing outdoors as my generation did. I recall that our times indoors was limited to inclement weather (and it had to be extreme!) and Godzilla movies. Most kids of that era loved Godzilla. She was such a valiant warrior! No matter the opposition, Godzilla was soon to be victorious over them. Godzilla had many different opponents in the series of "Godzilla" movies (that started in 1954).

In these times many are oppositional regarding the foundational truth of our existence. Absoluteeism has become questionable and when one pursuant to righteousness raises up, society seeks to quickly extinguish our fire breathing defense mechanism (euphemistically speaking) in trusting Holy God’s word as singularly authoritative. So much so, that we’re often mocked and scoffed (He who sits in the heavens laughs, The Lord scoffs at them. Then He will speak to them in His anger and terrify them in His fury, saying, “But as for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion, My holy mountain.” Ps.2:4-6). Godzilla knew something of this, yet kept fighting (cf. Eph. 6:10-11, Php.1:6)!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Unavailability” G. Ward

^“If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:40-42

 

There’s a middle-aged couple that walks the streets both day and night in our city. I had the privilege in meeting them at one time whereby their knocking on our church doors became so very persistent my answering wasn’t an option. Upon seeing them, their appearance shared their condition. Without hesitance, they mentioned residing in the wooded area behind the local shopping strip mall.

Initially they didn’t ask for money, just food items. Fortunately, our food pantry is equipped with many items with pop-top canned goods in addition to great snacks. I began loading them up. This established a tremendous rapport with them and as usual promises were made by them to begin worshipping with us. Needless to say it’s been over six years and they haven’t attended a worship service yet. Although they never come, the contingency for their receiving food or small money from us never wavers. Our God is Faithful unto us in spite of our wavering faith (cf. Ro. 5:8); so the least we can do is to mimic the Savior’s plight (cf. Ro. 12:1, Eph.5:1-2). Perhaps one day they’ll cry out, “O How I Love Jesus” just like we have. Until then, “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus…”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Just Like Mike…” G. Ward

 

It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1

 

Like Mike is a 2002 American fantasy sports comedy film, directed by John Schultz and starring Lil' Bow Wow in his film debut appearance. It was produced in association with NBA Entertainment and features cameo appearances by many NBA stars. A 14-year-old orphan becomes an NBA superstar after trying on a pair of sneakers with the faded initials "M.J." inside. (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

The essence of becoming a superstar is the very appeal utilized by marketing genii towards mankind. It identifies the insatiability (i.e. the love of money – cf. 1 Ti. 6:10) found in man.

The disciples of Jesus’ day wanted to be like the Superstar they were in the presence of. In order to do this effectively it was important to emulate Him perfectly. Jesus, as Leader modeled perfectly absolute surrender unto the Father. Watching this, His disciples wanted this role this Superstar had. Please forgive me in advance in my referring to our Savior as a Superstar; He’s Master of the Cosmos (Jn.3:16) and entirely worthy of our praise!

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Unnecessarily Boastful” G. Ward

 

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20

 

There’s a common regression practiced by some of us geriatrical giants that appear as delusions of grandeur unto the hearer. It’s expressing how thin you were in your twenties, while individuals view you currently and compassionately, asking, “does it hurt for you to walk with all that weight?”

Referring to great philosopher’s (William DeVaughn, 1972) lyrics, I’m reminded how important it is in appreciating life as well as it is…

Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac
Gangsta whitewalls
TV antennas in the back
You may not have a car at all
But remember brothers and sisters
You can still stand tall

Just be thankful for what you've got
Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac
Diamond in the back, sunroof top
Diggin' the scene
With a gangsta lean
Gangsta whitewalls
TV antennas in the back

You may not have a car at all
But remember brothers and sisters
You can still stand tall
Just be thankful for what you've got

Diamond in the back, sunroof top
Diggin the scene
With a gangsta lean, wooh-ooh-ooh
Diamond in the back, sunroof top
Diggin the scene
With a gangsta lean, wooh-ooh-ooh
Diamond in the back, sunroof top
Diggin' the scene
With a gangsta lean, wooh-ooh-ooh

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Cape Crusader” 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

 

As a child I enjoyed the original adventures of Batman and Robin. These caped crusaders were protectant of their city (Gotham City). Various villains sought to overtake this town and sometimes the world with their divisive schemes. These plans introduced unto Batman and Robin would often have them perplexed and bothered about the enormity of the task presented. Robin would often exclaim, “Holy” as a prefacing to an additional word, implying how difficult diffusing this evil would be.

When reading Ephesians 5:1-2, I too exclaim, “holy difficulty” as Robin would; stating emphatically the gargantuan task given man (to imitate Christ). Sure, we’ve had some success in this. Defeating the major villain to this cause (Gal.5:24), our very selves (flesh), makes this compelling found in Holy God’s word demand a better consistency. Moreover, it reminisces the grace and mercy given individually, leaving us to question, “what shall I render to this Great King?” The answer = faithfulness…

Happy Monday!