Today’s Thought “Without Popularity” G. Ward

“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22

“Here comes the tentmaker claiming to know God so very personally!” That had to be the chant of so many in the days of the Apostle Paul. Religion then was greater, particularly as the Roman Empire’s political occupancy demanded acceptance of a plethora of deities (cf. Jn.14:6).

Sharing truth may offer the same challenge for today as compared to Paul’s day. Many have made gods from a variety of perspectives that lend credence to their evil practices; and in the name of religion find scriptures to substantiate their cause (cf. 2 Ti.3:1-5). To discern their impropriety is now construed as judging, when in actuality there is no 66 books authored by you and me delineating a moral code for mankind. Perpetuating an anything goes stance precludes any absolutes as acceptable (in other words there is no right or wrong as long as it’s in the name of love). Knowing this, as ambassadors of Christ we must remember “Mercy Before Judgment” (Jas.2:13). Our redemption was felt as we were discipled into the knowledge of HIS saving grace (1 Cor.6:11). Be patient with others, they may be on their way…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Lone Wolf” G. Ward

"I will set My face against that man and make him a sign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from among My people. So you will know that I am the LORD. "But if the prophet is prevailed upon to speak a word, it is I, the LORD, who have prevailed upon that prophet, and I will stretch out My hand against him and destroy him from among My people Israel. "They will bear the punishment of their iniquity; as the iniquity of the inquirer is, so the iniquity of the prophet will be…” Ezekiel 14:8-10

I’m recalling a commercial from the early 70’s promoting some kind of advocacy. It featured a host of children (seemingly impoverished) while a recording of “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child” played in the backdrop. It caused any watching great pause along with sorrow. It was an era when the populous understood “the least of these” was the responsibility of the prosperous ones.

We’re now 40+ years later to now experience great irresponsibility among purveyors of eternal matters. Rarely are any of these self appointed leaders promulgating a consequence for sin. Their every message has become the chant of the listening audience – “Great things are in store, you just wait and see!” It’s no wonder that all feel heaven is theirs. Will any stand as the prophet was compelled in times past? In a reprobate society that contrasts historicity’s sinful practices, we’re worse in exponential proportions. Why then are the celebratory comments so pervasive, along with the extraction (from Holy God’s word) of only those kinder, gentler expressions? What saith thee?

Happy Tuesday!

 

Today’s Thought “Lost Order” G. Ward

“Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.” Romans 10:1

On this weekend super prayers will be extended for our nation and praise for those who made the great sacrifice therein, along with their grieving families. When calamity strikes (through natural disaster or the demise of a loved one), great prayers of comfort are enacted. The pervasiveness of terrorism compels men to pray their land’s security.

Why should we be exempt from wars that take young men and women’s lives, or storms, pestilences, terrorism and death? Thousands of years in struggle have prevailed for those God loved. Moreover, we must not forget His loving the world loves those opposed to us, even them that perpetuate hatred towards our nation. Contemplating any of this more mandates our prayers match His intent for mankind; a loving relationship (cf. Jn.3:16, 2 Pe. 3:9). Imagine if all the dictators (governmentally) of this era and times past arrived at a place of surrendering their lives to Christ and their political system in Communism or Socialism mandated the pursuit of the gospel for every man within their perspective region (cf. Lk.19:1-10). Furthermore, imagine if our churches would get off their soapbox and stop promoting preachers to the pulpit and have them excel to the mission field?

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “The Twist” G. Ward

”So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 8:31-32

 

There’s an unfortunate reality existent at every dance party demonstrated by some free spirit (usually wearing a lamp shade) refusing adaptation to a modern nuance in dance. One such a dance is The Twist (Popularized by Chubby Checkers in the 60’s). Entirely encompassing is the eclectic gyrating from left to right, entranced by rhythmic beats. Its portrayal’s contingency depends on the speed of the music played, entirely nomadic in a sense.

Truth for our time is perceivably the same. Like good music played, the promulgations of man are evaluated, then adopted. Then, the next philosophical giant arrives to upstage the prior hero (cf. Ezek.33:30-33). Ultimately years of pursuit of righteousness found in man crescendos whereby it’s too late in identifying - “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Ro.10:8-9).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Perplexity In Assessment” G. Ward

“They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.” 1 John 2:19

More articles are appearing on the church’s decline in membership. Contrary to all the analytical hyperbolizing from varied critics of religious practices, real Christianity personified never experienced decline. Believing (i.e. implicit trust in the Savior’s authority over one’s life) is never unilateral of exercising faith (Jas.1:18-22). The misappropriation of scripture oversimplifies a relationship with Christ, reducing it to the bumper stickers portrayal of acceptance that demands “God Is My Co-Pilot.” The actuality presents HIM as LORD (New Owner of one’s life). If there’s no spiritual metamorphosis, in other words, if you’re still the same (opinions, perspectives and practices) after conversion, was there transformation (cf. Ro.6:4, 2 Cor.5:17)? I’m furthered inclined towards the categorical assessment of Ed Stetzer (Executive Director of LifeWay Research) below.

The first category–Cultural Christians–is made up of people who believe themselves to be Christians simply because their culture tells them they are.

The second category–Congregational Christians–is similar to the first group, except these individuals at least have some connection to congregational life.

The final group–Convictional Christians–is made up of people who are actually living according to their faith.

If you’re not part of the final group…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Without Territory” G. Ward

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, The world, and those who dwell in it.” Psalm 24:1

Nine men dead and 170 arrested in Waco, Texas over the weekend as Bikers assemble from varied groups in pep rally terms, promoting territorial rights. Allegedly, the shoot out maintained cognizance of law enforcement’s presence; absolutely attributable to deranged hatred in diversity.

It appears utterly preposterous unto the many onlookers to view what appears as adult men fighting in the very same manner as large city gang members. It simulates a sort of West Side Story minus a love interest from Tony and Maria. These castigations forgets the transcendence of ignorance and most certainly lack introspective enough to see themselves as instrumental in a similar heinous crime of not sharing the wealth of grace and mercy stemming from Holy God that ultimately is more than enough. How many more have to inhabit hell before those who say they believe promote man’s position as strangers (aliens) to earth (Phil.3:20, 1 Pe.2:11)?

“And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh” (Jude 1:22-23).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Without Provocation” G. Ward

“If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my struggle I will wait Until my change comes.” Job 14:14

“Anticipation” is a song written by Carly Simon in 1971. Generations beyond the “Baby Boomer” era are more familiar with this song relative to the Heinz Ketchup commercial whereby although it pours extremely slow, it’s so worth the wait. Life is intended not so much to soak up all the potential glory it may produce, but as reality demands we’re the highest form in creation and as all of nature cooperates inherently, there’s an unfortunate insistence perpetuating independence from our Creator (cf. Eph.2:10, 3:9-10).  These actions more reveal unbelief and exacerbate greater struggles. More surrender unto the Holy One won’t necessarily diffuse more struggle, but will lend assurance that it’s not yours (2 Chron.20:15)…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Yet Rejoicing…” G. Ward

“Man, who is born of woman, Is short-lived and full of turmoil. “Like a flower he comes forth and withers. He also flees like a shadow and does not remain.” Job 14:1-2

There’s a beauty amidst a grave medical prognosis. When the doctor has done all he knows to do and pharmaceuticals cease working, it assuredly leads to contemplations of eternality. No matter the life lived, breath, as poor as it may be, affords repentance (cf. Lk.23:32-43, 2 Pe.3:9). Moreover, if anyone is familiar with the message of Calvary’s cross and the Chieftain therein, it lends itself to a possible, forced reconciliation (Lk.23:44-49), realizing HE is LORD.

I’m recalling on today my own father who received a grim prognosis comparable. Although there was unfortunate agonizing of varied medical procedures, his witness to losing internal viscosity lent him confession (cf. Mt. 16:13-20) unto eternality. My recall also concerns itself to a friend who experienced a similar plight. His cancer metastasized throughout most vital organs causing his recent death. Ironically, his funeral is today on what ordinarily would be his birthday (I loved him as a brother). Altogether, no matter the deceased, their eternality upon death is determined according to their confession of Christ as Master. Slogans of “rest in peace” or “rest in heaven” have become foolishly pervasive suggesting everyone goes up. Forgetting about that particular argument, are you going to be afforded a lengthy illness giving you time  for repentance, or will it be sudden sending you to an eternity away from Holy God?

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Sociological Implications” G. Ward

“Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored.” Titus 2:3-5

Ironically and wrongfully, women have been regarded by men as “The Little Woman.” I say ironically because their role never abandons and tirelessly is consumed with the needs of her family. Her only reprieve is generally when slumber pervades the home and then her knucklehead husband (the wrongful element) begins looking at her gesturing a responsibility of due benevolence (cf. 1 Cor.7:3-4) without a romantic, considerate passion.

For our time and due to flippant behavior from both sexes, the erosion of intended theology (Ge.3:17-19) mandates the woman as provider because real men are M.I.A. Furthermore, when marital unions exist for our modernity, there’s an insistence that everyone be employed so that we’ll have more materially, ultimately translating less foundationally. Teaching moral and social skills unto children are then relegated (mostly) unto other institutions furthering systemic happenstance vs. planned success in the Lord and societally. What are we expecting in the years to come? The transcendence of adherence is and has always been our saving grace (Jas.1:18-22). Ladies, look for a true provider, not a BOYfriend…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Working On A Building” G. Ward

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

I’m contemplating my servant-hood on today: I’m bought with a price (1 Cor.6:20), encouraged in being taught to number my days (as they are few - Ps.90:10-12), admonished to absolutely deny myself when seeking to follow Jesus (Mt.16:24). My reconciliation unto these great offerings have become less difficult for two reasons; I’ve established a practice in surrender to the Holy One and I received my AARP card years ago. The brevity in my existence celebrates today’s opportunity to trust HIM more. Mother and Father taught how essential it was to wear clean underwear because the possibility of accident or sickness may land you in the presence of medical personnel embarrassed if not suited properly. If you don’t consider change on today (cf. Ro.10:13, 1 Pe.1:16), the Devil won’t care if your drawers are torn, tattered, or filthy – he’ll receive you as you are…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Crossroads Unto Indecision” G. Ward

“Moreover David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6

I love the bumper sticker “Real Men Love Jesus.” The aim of every human being seeks to identify direction; what to eat, where to live, how to interact, etc. (Mt.6:25-33). That aim (in some unbelieving factions) is often without designation of who will lord over their practicalities, but prayerfully will lead them to Jesus (Pr.3:5-6).

Calling Jesus LORD is far beyond a bumper sticker and more important to reveal, it’s beyond corporate worship also (Jas.1:18-22). Greater character in Christ is seen and unseen behavior. The plight of man, mostly selfish, more lends itself to a façade as he interacts societally. His defense mechanisms are numerous, protecting that to which he loves the most (2 Ti.3:1-5). The compelling in the spiritual realm of his existence sees a proactive avenue in inviting other men towards an unrehearsed effort (in reciprocity), merciful and just; because it was shown him (cf. Ro.5:8).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Pervasive Buffoonery” G. Ward

 ^“For this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words; and not satisfied with this, he himself does not receive the brethren, either, and he forbids those who desire to do so and puts them out of the church.” 3 John 1:10

A variety of preachers have promoted a horrific paradigm widely accepted by their many congregants that demands exemption from insult. They falsely extract from Holy God’s word scriptures (e.g. “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.” 1 Chron.16:22) that issue fear unto potential castigators of God’s supposed men. While no one enjoys ridicule, most understand that leadership will compel wrongful attention (*cf. Jn.15:20).

I’ve had much opportunity in mentoring those new to the pastorate. My first admonition is they remain in truth – no hyperbolizing, no seeking compromising friendships (while kind and gentle, 2 Ti.2:24-25), and positively no entertaining. Promulgating truth guarantees less scrutiny because it places responsibility unto the Message and not the messenger. Inept leadership may demand you leave the church, fearful in your proposed critique vs. God ordained men of confidence stating impossibility in any believer leaving that in which confirms his transformation (cf. Ac.2:44, Gal.2:20).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Preeminence Displaced” G. Ward

“So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man.” Acts 24:16

Written in 1892, adopted by Congress in 1942 and in 1954 the term “under God” was added. What is it? It’s the Pledge of Allegiance. Its simple construction merely conveys good citizenry. Moreover, it’s a promise to abide under the laws of the land (cf. Ro. 13:1-3, Tit.3:1-2).

Jesus our Lord didn’t have issue with submission unto government although it was oppressive (Mk.12:12-17). He promised to remain exemplary while in a strange land (Lk.22:42), but carefully and intentionally made His Father’s business first. He didn’t burn or stomp Caesar’s Roman flag. He didn’t organize great protest although great civil unrest cost Him His life (The days of the Roman Empire subjectively sought to debase every Jew.). The Savior saw a people who were without a SHEPHERD and exercised compassion. Although He fed them physically (Mt.14:13-21), His earthly mission was/is to save them from their sin (Mt.1:21). I’m thankful for peaceable protest and advocacy for victims of injustice. As a Black man, with 3 Black grandsons, I’m appalled at the pervasiveness in neglectful, genocidal practices of some who feel threatened by the appearance of young Black men; But “I know Whom I have believed, And am persuaded that He is able To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.” That’s my resolve (Jn.15:20)…

Happy Friday!