Today’s Thought “Above All” G. Ward

“He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” Colossians 1:17-18

Believers have been audacious in accepting an idea presented by political legislators along with presidential candidates that would remove them from their religion, to govern (calling the U.S. Constitution preeminent to personal values imposed on a constituency). While the hoorays of welcomed courage from citizens are directed unto politicians, heaven frowns at this blasphemous rejection in righteousness (cf. 2 Cor.5:10). My trust in the Lord is never momentary, but a total regard to Infinite Wisdom proven throughout every generation. When/if I (with limited abilities) pretentiously call HIM Lord, extending segmented realities unto HIS Sufficiency, I foster an equality with Eternal God.

Our lives are not distinctively our own. We’re all representatives of His glory. There’s no code of conduct comparable to His will for man, nor is an option available that delineates my capacity for ethical variance (“For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Phil.1:21).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Where Your Treasure Is…” G. Ward

“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:23-25

Hi, my name is Gregory and I’m a news junkie. Seemingly harmless an adoption, but so unproductive a practice. There’s very little to no resolve in varied broadcasts and I epitomize the definition of insanity as a perpetual viewer. I’d love to rationalize this addiction by suggesting it helps me (as a pastor) to better assess the condition of man as perplexed and bothered, but that more reveals lack of faith (cf. Heb.4:12).  Holy God, the Author in resolve, reveals Himself as the Master Anthropologist in His word; remember, He created them. He shares how important it is to not identify with societal complexity through observance of lasting principle only found in His word (Mt. 24:35).

Innocent practice with appearances of what might be tagged as amoral might soon unfold into violation of Holy God’s moral code (Ro.6:14, 1 Cor.6:12). I’m just talking about the news, what’s your issue (Mt.6:21)?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Imminent Victory” G. Ward

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

How many times have any of us awakened prematurely to numerous tasks at hand? I say prematurely because of lack in resting. Let’s offer a hypothetical by saying that our plans (on that day) in the regimen of task are entirely stored in our memory banks. Now I’ll remind you we neglected proper rest. Therefore great plans have now become something forgotten, including oversight of partners involved. Can you say “I’ll take What Are the Makings of a Bad Day Alex?”

Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” This proverbial expression mostly offers a perfect surrender unto the Limitless wisdom in Holy God’s orchestration of your daily walk vs. the potential in your horrible prioritizing that may lead to chaotic misery (cf. Ro.6:23).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Terribly Misunderstood” G.Ward

“But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised.” 1 Corinthians 2:14

I’ve missed so many opportunities in being heard because of my estimation of what appears to be a common sense principle proposed by another. Their line of interrogation happened because they knew of my position (spiritually) desiring real answers. My estimation understood their questions as highly cynical (only through appearances), but failed to see the subliminal altruism with needing resolve. Therefore, the natural reciprocal response of the questioner upon viewing my visible frustration, disallowed my promulgations = NO RESOLVE. That’s entirely ungodly on my part to which I avoid currently (cf. Eph.4:29-30). If I’m HIS (i.e. owned by Christ), I represent the patience, peace and love shown everyone (Ro.10:13)…

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Against All Odds” G. Ward

“We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.” 2 Corinthians 5:5-6

“Thank God it’s Friday” carries a connotation of being burdened all week in task (i.e. unavoidable responsibility). It’s no wonder places of worship are experiencing such decline in numbers. Plans are being made that more embrace 2 days in being my own boss against the message received at the local church insisting Holy God as Owner. The spiritual resolve of many that would substantiate a personal relationship with Christ more involves passages of familiarity that encourage vs. scripture that convicts (or indicts), limiting growth (cf. Phil.3:10). Ultimately it proves knowing God on our own terms without consideration of whole truth.

While there’s nothing wrong with dinner and a movie, un-belief fails to anticipate a gathering on Sunday mornings of righteous proportion (cf. 1 Jn.5:3).

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “High and Lifted Up…” G. Ward

“In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!” Hebrews 5:12

What if your parent’s every instruction sought to keep you as little children vs. preparation for a big, old, ugly, mean world? What about this; your teenagers, with all their rebellion (i.e. smart mouthing, defiance and knowing everything) decided they’re never going to leave your home after hearing “Pomp and Circumstance” post graduation? These scenarios in essence is largely the position bad spiritual leaders assume when failing to instruct others as the same proposed leader. Preachers should delight in a potential day where no congregants would appear within a service realm because they’re on missionary assignment. Instead, great campaigns in dependence and notoriety are being waged among current theologians that demand followers (of what’s supposed to be disciples in Christ) drink the “Kool-Aid” and die. Promulgations that admit “all fall short” (cf. 1 Ti.1:15) constrains efforts in pride along with categorizing others as having attained (or pinnacled) in righteousness (Ro.3:10).

Pope Francis, you’re welcome, you really are; but share more about long robes, recognition in the market place and ceremonial greetings among supposed men of God being absolutely abhorrent unto Jesus (cf.Lk.20:46-47).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Popularity, Overrated” G. Ward

“For prior to the coming of certain men from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he began to withdraw and hold himself aloof, fearing the party of the circumcision.” Galatians 2:12

Horror movies have been a particular passion of mine. I love the intrigue in guessing the next gory scene. One that stands out is the movie Carrie (1976 horror film based on Stephen King's first major 1974 novel of the same name). The storyline presents a 17 year old young lady whose Mother is a Christian Fundamentalist who sought to shelter (through great abuse) both she and Carrie from the world’s lack in virtue. Carrie discovers an evil power she has (that reciprocates great evil) when angered that ultimately substantiates her Mother’s ongoing message of “they’ll laugh at you!”

Our lives will/can often seek to fit in where we can get in (cf. Jn.15:19).  Fundamentalism, found in Holy God’s word serves a similar warning comparable to the Mother’s (of Carrie) message promoting sanctification (2 Ti.2:21). Although this Mother’s approach was extreme, we can learn from this colorful horror movie that an end in peril and destruction is avoidable when we maintain a position consistent with eternality (Ro.12:2).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Conservative vs. Liberal” G. Ward

“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” John 17:17

A religious base was non-existent in the Constitution of the United States. It was governance that granted religious freedom for all. The reverberation in this is the lack of absolutes we experience currently that remains entirely argumentative (cf. 2 Ti.3:16-17). Believers were then “Bought By A Price” and continue in the same. The philosophical nonsense of separating situational ethics from spiritual ones is contradictory to being owned by the Master. When you listen to this bipartisan presidential campaign’s hyperbolic stance of governing with some overtone in spiritual conviction vs. total surrender unto Holy God’s way, you’re allowing modern thieves opportunity to “Kill, Steal and Destroy” the investment made by Jesus our LORD.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Roulette, A Game of Chance” G. Ward

“I will bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word according to all Your name.” Psalm 138:2

Every Monday morning for many generations (very particularly during the school year) parents interrogate their children’s departure unto their perspective schools. If their young person attempts leaving with no writing tools or books, interrogation then becomes castigation and they’re immediately escorted to what is an area of supply. This demand prohibits an exit strategy on behalf of the young person until books, paper and pen are in tow.

Do you go to the doctor’s visit without clean underwear? Is driving without a license sanctioned? Howbeit that our young people are without supply at their place of worship? Is a copy of God’s word only for the preacher? My personal frustration in this matter as a pastor gifted every young person in our church with a bible, pen and tablet (note taking?). After every worship service my desire is to touch every congregant and visitor at our front doors. Sadly, not one young person was equipped (cf. Deut. 6:4-7, Pr. 22:6). What will church look like in 5 years? You may implicate Madalyn O’Hair for removing prayer in school, but the many conveyances that say God isn’t real is emanates from who?

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “They’re Watching” G. Ward

“When all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had handed down, they feared the king, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice.” 1 Kings 3:28

Our days are filled with great and small judgments. It may seem personal until I contemplate break room talk that takes place every Monday when others interrogate my activity of the weekend and how it always included church on Sunday for me. This commitment unto personal spiritual progress most certainly allow feelings of inadequacy for the irreligious to surface. Many will begin watching those committed ones seeking to discover deficiency so as to perpetuate a notion of foolishness first found in “church folks.”

For some it appears a heavy load to bear; our living righteously. I beg to differ. I know it as opportunistic in sharing what should be more proper to view – Christ’s Righteousness, delineating “No one as righteous, not one” (Ro.3:10). This admittance is far more compelling and invitational than a boast about the excellence at service time (cf. Lk.14:16-23)…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “I Wanna Be Rich!” G. Ward

“Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name give glory, for the sake of Your steadfast love and Your faithfulness!” Psalm 115:1

Dear Lord, in recent times I’ve given my life to You. I say my trusting You is implicit because Your pursuit of me happened first. I’ve embraced every component in holy living; putting away all the selfish principles that were so ever encompassing. The music I once embraced is null and void for this new life and now my everyday seeks praise and worshipful music. Lord, You’ve enabled me with great singing talent and I thank You. Holy God, Maker of heaven and earth, I’m now going to take some old school beats that will accompany some of those lyrics in how You blessed me and how You’re going to protect me from all harm and sickness even though people of greater faith are perishing (some tragically) through disease and other evils, and because Jabez prayed that You would enlarge his territory and You did, I know (In Jesus Name) that once I finish these tracks, I’m soon to blow up! CAN YOU SAY COMPROMISE?

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Simi Valley Valiciousness” G. Ward

“A divine decision is in the lips of the king; His mouth should not err in judgment.” Proverbs 16:10

The GOP debate on tonight includes 17 candidates vying for what perceivably is the highest office in the land. Ideally all 17 will seek to convey their qualifications in governance to a captive audience more in tune with a war on words than substance. I say that because many forget that a system of “checks and balances” more disallow the Executive Branch’s exclusive power. Beyond partisan lines more embellishment is given in debate than possibility. Expressions like “this is what the American people want” carries implication of majority. The actuality in this although true is without measurement and could represent 3 or 3 million Americans.

Where’s the continuity in this liberal or conservative political-ness; Seventeen on one side, four on the other? Why not consider debate behind the scenes amongst (partisan) candidates to produce one for argument with another brand for Americans? If a divine decision is on the lips of a potential leader, his actions must be willing to subtract from idealism unto reality – GOD IS REAL (Mt.16:24, Ro.3:4).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “In A Weary Land” G. Ward

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

North Korea has become as agitant a country as their leader Kim Jong-un is short (You can’t trust a man who always wears platform shoes seeking to establish his height as average.). Just recently they’ve announced a readiness for attack against the U.S. with the nuclear arsenal they possess in protest to American policy.

We can allow for North Korea to infringe on our faith (certainly not in militaristic counteraction), or we can run towards real refuge. Unless the Lord builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain” (Ps.127:1).

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Fad Dieting” G. Ward

And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.” Genesis 1:29

Like many of you I’ve investigated all the ads regarding eliminating body fat. Every advertisement is entirely resolute in their claims. What helps me to subtract from immediate purchase is that the primary ingredient to these magnificent compounds is a natural substance.

Howbeit that mankind created and given authority over every plant, water creature and animal, reaches outside of the realm of his existence to discover new frontier? Did we ever stop to think that had we remained in the original plan given from the Creator – pants wouldn’t be so tight?

Happy Monday!

 

Today’s Thought “Truth, Upside the Head!” G. Ward

“Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12

Church decline is on the increase. Although technology allows live streaming, while social networking offers cyber revivals, our timeless God proposed a physical (face to face) assembling (Heb. 10:25) for every season. We (mankind) think of this movement as epiphanizing, but Holy God knew of its potential from the creation of the world.

We can become more analytical concerning the decline with our many attacks about church relevancy along with preacher’s compelling to be rich vs. available unto missionary status; and all these arguments are true, but the accountability belongs to any who say they know HIM (1 Jn.5:3). The first commandment given man after Christ paid the price for man’s sin was going and making disciples (Mt.28:19). Here’s what’s necessary; get by yourself and ask “how long have I been a believer?” If I believe, can my most excellent testimonials on how good God is be what HE commanded, or am I to walk them through a systematic study of HIS word until they’re able to disciple another or perhaps I just don’t believe because I’m already refusing that notion…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Boundless” G. Ward

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” 2 Peter 3:8

 

More attempts towards relevancy have precluded that messaging before our time currently, though good for then, is impossible in reception currently. The presumption of this notion proposes this modern society beholds a new humanity (i.e. a people of greater aptitude vs. those of us challenged in brilliance, LOL). The actuality of mankind is best articulated by King Solomon, “So I turned to consider wisdom, madness and folly; for what will the man do who will come after the king except what has already been done” (Eccl.2:12)? Solomon was expressive of being blessed with riches and superior wisdom, enjoining his kingly status alongside of Holy God’s. When he was confronted with the brevity of life and its futile attempt in self sufficiency, his word identifying this erroneous state was “vanity.”

Our unending, worthless attempts to re-invent the wheel, refuses to do the work that our predecessors endeavored in bringing us thus far. Vintage is not a bad word, but a valuable possession…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Temporary Fame” G. Ward

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” Proverbs 19:21

Okay, Kim Davis (Rowan County, KY. Clerk) you’re free, Now what? Do you return to your non-political civic service (through an electoral process) to then deny signature on marriage licenses to same-sex couples, returning to jail; and if the polygamist clerk in Utah grants signature without interrogation to another active in polygamy, while the orthodox Roman Catholic clerk in Massachusetts denies a divorcee license to marry based on their religious convictions, wouldn’t you question their pursuit (vocationally)?  Moreover, does the Christian accept work at the Playboy Mansion because it’s legitimate and they’re comfortable in personal restraint?

Real conviction is without contemplations in social reformation, and particularly when federal statutes have been enacted (antithetical to your spiritual beliefs). I believe there to be many who come to know the Lord Jesus involved in occupations promoting immorality at their time of transformation to then resign immediately trusting in Holy God’s Providence (I’ve witnessed that very personally). Perhaps Sister Davis’ $80,000 salary obscures better judgment?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Environmental vs. Pre-destined?” G. Ward

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

 Subjectively, Asians are better at mathematics and left-handed individuals are with a greater capacity in intellect. Many from Asian nations would argue this paradigm as inaccurate due to their personal knowledge of those who have struggled therein and I very personally can admit to strong deficiency in intelligence. All the sociological examinations pursued, enable more defense in why achievement of varied kinds remains impossible. Argument is perpetuated beyond educational pursuits also. Disparity in race, socio-economic classes and gender demand interrogative studies vs. personal responsibility in ensuring that whatever tag is rendered man, further divisiveness is the outcome. I know there to be an interrogation that will always seek to invade on Holy God’s Sovereignty and absolutely no statistical gathering from any scientist is with prudence. It’s positively inexplicable!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Convenient Jurisprudence” 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

The Jews of Jesus’ day knew a burden in unfair taxation. Their rates demanded (in modern day terms) that almost a quarter from every dollar generated be given for a host of events and support. This design was imposed on man by Holy God initially. We know it as a tithe, which was the same as taxation (cf. Nu.18:30, Deut. 12:6-17, 14:28). Jesus’ resolve with such indifference (i.e. governmental, social, etc.) is/was astounding. He simply demanded government regulations be followed while simultaneously and most preeminently following Holy God’s command. Our reality of earthen regulations understands it as diametrical to God’s words; His is infinite wisdom. Rules from man are ever evolving, selfishly suiting the needs of the insatiably driven. I’m troubled in the presentation of moral and sociological ills as a nuance for our time.

Like the County Clerk in Kentucky, I too oppose same sex marriage; but as a county clerk, did you consider refusing those who were blatant fornicators prior to marriage? As a pastor, I’ve been exposed to many who persist in behaviors antithetical to God’s word (and yes, they’ve called me pastor), but those are not the sheep of the true Shepherd, nor can they serve in leadership at His place of worship. You’re not allowed opportunity to exercise in Holy God’s mandates by picking and choosing only those personal abhorrent realities; signing off on any transgression, transgresses (take your time with that one…). If I were that county clerk I would have resigned my position when the Supreme Court decision was made…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Where Your Treasure Is…” G. Ward

But when you present the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you present the lame and sick, is it not evil? Why not offer it to your governor? Would he be pleased with you? Or would he receive you kindly?” says the Lord of hosts. Malachi 1:8

Bad planning and improper rest is a negative contributor to proprietary consideration (equally so) for everyone. Many are tirelessly available occupationally, while taking their family for granted. In other terms they’re personally instrumental in producing tremendous corporate gains without cognizance of their own eroding family values.

There is no presumed metamorphosis that enables time to manufacture a proper prioritizing of work and family; it takes a concerted effort. For some that have juxtaposed “possibility thinking” in same ethical behavior personified everywhere, you owe better availability to your inquiry (e.g. “How are you doing?”) unto another (Ro.15:1). “No man is an island…”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Out of Bounds” G. Ward

“But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4

Ministers of the gospel in Christ are said to first be human, then pastor-teacher. The words from God on the other hand, demand preeminence (unto God) from every believer, very particularly those responsible for the “household of faith.” I’m confounded in witnessing such social advocacy as this generation is experiencing. Advocacy altogether is with a component of proven resolve. This may mean injustice perceived is rightfully exposed causing a forced reconciliation from an oppressor. Social advocacy then for ministers of the gospel must first understand that injustice among men is thousands of years old, to see very little resolve. Disparities (of many kinds) are as rampant as ever. If I’m a promulgator of “Truth” neglecting that blessed message of reconciliation first, what am I saying when I devote as much or more time to any advocacy over a proven resolve that Jesus can save the worst oppressor causing greater continuity among men until we all see HIM face to face?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Old School” G. Ward

“Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart.” Ephesians 5:19

The inauthenticity in varied art forms today is commonplace.  I believe it’s indicative of selfish motive and the expediency in aspiration towards notoriety among men. Artists of old endeavored their craft mostly for the love in that particular art form. The prowess of the modern artist is diminished when he fails to operate in the recesses of his own soul.

Ultimately, if more would seek to identify impacting another without an implication of fame, it would be best felt (appreciated) when personal conviction is authentic and the reproduction from the recipient won’t consider their craft as less, but just gives freely because another cared to share…

Happy Tuesday!