Today's Thought "Patiently Waiting" G.Ward
"And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him." Luke 2:25
Storms have been somewhat intense throughout America and the visual in residual affects therein have been astounding. Our views have pitied those impacted by these disasters, but only until the next news story is presented; we're then sent on a roller coaster ride of emotion undesired ( I.e. from pity to criticisms).
True devotion unto Hope (Jn.3:17-18) sympathizes more than temporary when disaster strikes another, while mourning for those detached from righteousness by pervading on every man the Blessed Hope that offers refuge for the storm soon to visit (cf. Eph.6:12). Furthermore it refuses to cheapen the grace afforded, via a blatant refusal in personal discipleship (i.e. Worship Services).
Happy Friday!

Today's Thought "Culture vs. Unwavering Truth" G. Ward
"Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head." 1 Corinthians 11:4
When you mention abortion as wrong, the world questions, "what about in the case of incest or rape (cf. Ps.139:1-13)?" While either is most certainly heinous, does it discount that the Giver of life propose they exist? Should babies of illicit parentage (I.e. drug addictions, prostitution, those fiscally unproductive, etc.) be considered for annihilation also? Man has determined the "Co-Pilot" status with Holy God long enough (Isa.55:8-9). The Apostle Paul determined to admonish the church at Corinth to remain in the grip of grace vs. rudiments leading to heresy. Men, compelled to be the head (vs.3) compromised his role via improper acquiescing unto standards not ever sanctioned in God's Word. We're now involved in the subtlety of family values eroded not because immorality continues without man's prompting (2 Cor.1-4), it's because man won't believe ( **Phil.2:10-12)...
Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Violating the Premise” G. Ward
“For in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part I believe it.” 1 Corinthians 11:18
The likeliness of receiving financial aid from the rich has been the paradigm exacted for thousands of years (cf. Jas 2:6) and the financial inequality in this land is with a horrid statistical reality that witnesses the top 20% of our wealthiest with a subjective ownership of in excess of 85% of the country’s wealth. Sadly, the days of Corinth witnessed their rich brethren as professing to be owned by the Wonderful Savior, while refusing to give even a morsel of their food unto those with substantially less (if any).
The order of Holy God is without consideration in categorization of wealth until it neglects to understand how utterly temporal human stewardship is afforded (Ps.90:10-12). Moreover as believers, we’re compelled to surrender our castigations for who may be rich and what they’re doing with their money to what you’re doing with the little afforded you. Are you wealthy in contrast to the poorest?
Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “The Evening News” G. Ward

One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” This testimony is true. For this reason reprove them severely so that they may be sound in the faith, not paying attention to Jewish myths and commandments of men who turn away from the truth. “Titus 1:12-14

I would say that I’m fairly astute regarding the happenings here in America and abroad. Kudos to Ted Turner who initialized 24 hour news. Thereafter, many networks realized many ascribed in viewership to then mimic the 24 hour concept. I must admit to you that I’m a closet news junkie, but the concept troubled me concerning the “how” any network could supply enough material to disseminate without violating journalistic prudence. The actuality of any 24 hour network’s lack of integrity was/is the adoption of what began with the local eyewitness news in any American city opting for sensationalism at the risk of people group’s defamation over fairness.

Believers must be careful to know that juxtaposition of information stated vs. the report of eternal proportion (portraying hope in Jesus as enough), need be careful to realize that our yesterday was filled with horrid impropriety, but we were washed, and that possibility for any must now become our promulgation (cf. Ro.10:13).

Happy Tuesday!

Today's Thought "Why Couldn't They Just Speak It?" G. Ward

 

"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." Romans 1:18

 

I'm thinking about my great grandparent's generation on today. Theirs was filled with moral absolutes, along with great limitations (I.e. social and economic disparities), whereby unrest was the norm. Their forecasts of hope didn't rest on governmental reprieve, but solely on God Sufficiency. Moreover there was no demand of Holy God's rescue on their terms in immediacy; they trusted in His timetable.

We, the current religious climate are witness to the pervasion in estimating their dispensational era as unlearned in contrast to our modern advancements. We've allowed liberality to perceive what God's word means, using it in conjunction to our vain philosophy; while being impressed with our bishops who are entirely unacquainted with whom we are. We refuse to be owned by anyone, including the Most High (cf. 1 Cor.6:19, Gal.2:20). Considering our waywardness in contrast to our great grandparent’s unrelenting submission, is God really blessing us as we suppose, or has HE given us over to the depravity of our demands?

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Preparing for the Storm” G. Ward

“But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house on the ground without any foundation; and the torrent burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great.” Luke 6:49

Just recently I had the pleasure in performing nuptials for my eldest nephew and his beautiful bride. He has two other brothers who are yet “sowing their wild oats”, that is awaiting frivolity’s release of their wanton pleasures. While the predominance of society chant echoes of “let those young men mature and then consider settling down” are condoning (without spiritual cognizance) a promised tomorrow unto any, along with carnal assumption that a 37 year old young man is without a propensity in promiscuity.

Howbeit that our grandparents married while in their teens, along with some young maidens in God’s word marrying as early as 13? A modernity purveying independence from Holy God’s word is a society prone to debauchery (i.e. illicit behaviors). The grip of grace is available for too short a season to consider risk of eternal proportion (e.g. our 27 year old niece’s funeral is tomorrow at 11)...

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “The Top Shelf” G. Ward

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar.” Psalm 139:1-2

If you’re somewhat shorter than most, there are places most difficult in reaching. Our kitchen at home for example is with numerous cabinets and some are very high causing my wife to access a step-stool.  It’s a perfect point in collusion for me in that I absolutely abhor my wife’s fancy cup fetish.  They’re the most difficult items to wash and seemingly it always falls on me to perform this tedious task (and yes, I need Jesus). This horrid idiosyncrasy of mine has put the Devil on waivers, because I’ve insisted on doing his work by hiding these fancy cups in the top shelves.

Rather than conjuring against those vast idiosyncrasies so disturbing, my visitation to this inner sanctuary (Ps.91:2) proposed for me as a believer (cf. Ps.73:17) it should more understand that my every moment afforded me with such an holy matrimonial estate (along with such a beautiful wife who cares for me without condition) hasn’t formulated war upon this fetish seemingly so disturbing, it’s merely mistrust of Holy God’s word (cf. Ge.2:23-24).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Patterns of Obedience” G. Ward

The Lord spoke again to Moses and to Aaron, saying to them, “Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, ‘These are the creatures which you may eat from all the animals that are on the earth.” Leviticus 11:1-2

Virginia Slims is a cigarette offered to the populous (1968 Phillip-Morris Corporation), with an original appeal towards young professional women at the height of the Women’s Liberation Movement. There were great advertisements featuring the slogan, “You’ve Come a Long Way Baby!” The actuality in cigarette manufacturing has become entirely regressive (for its consumer) with its insertion of additional nicotine both perpetuating addiction, while a perpetrator in ailments of sorts.

When we observe God’s Testament of Old, we’re more prone to identify all the impossibilities vs. submission unto Omniscience (found solely in the Creator) with ability to establish a future for those of a current climate, along with generations thereafter. Dietary laws weren’t given to pervade on a people greater health so as to guarantee long life, but total dependence on the Giver of the next breath of any. Unfortunately our demand for food faster along with longer shelf life is the same impropriety exercised by Israel demanding a king (1 Sa.8) like other lands. Quick fixing (processed food) keeps us fat and unhealthy

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Deflection of Righteousness” G. Ward

“And there was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years and had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers.” Luke 2:36-37

 

All that I want to be in Christ must consider a practice of reliance/dependence on HIM in everything. As we endeavor springtime, we’re witness to tremendous metamorphosis orchestrated by our Sufficient King with things in nature. Daily awakening for humanity is comparable to seasonal change; raising the banner of renewed opportunity (both in sins forgiven and second chances) that demands courage to exercise in implicit trust in the Compassionate, Merciful Creator who had you in mind before the foundation of the world (Eph.1:4).

Anna established a life that embraced the Temple. The structure therein was representative of where Holy God existed. This pre-dispensational position of Anna had yet encountered the awaited Messiah (vs.38); Oh, but when HE came and she viewed the Savior of the world, all her effort to remain close (where righteousness existed) exacted TREASURE FOUND. Our eyes can’t see HIM, yet remain euphoric for HIS imputed righteousness given us.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Paradoxical?” G. Ward

“Am I a God who is near,” declares the Lord, “And not a God far off?  “Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him?” declares the Lord. “Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 23:23-24

 

There are many experts with varied subject matter that astounds those viewing; and particularly when so very few are enabled in the same. Moreover, the scholarship of man (i.e. when one’s aptitude is with superiority) causes great humility for those like me who may be average in every area of intellect. None however have been able to attain expertise status in Holy God (cf. Mt.24:35). The pursuit in knowing Infinite Wisdom is/has been a life journey. Therefore it’s always troubling to hear those claiming to be HIS own drawing offense from those oppositional to their spiritual positioning (*Mk.6:1-6), particularly due to one’s failure to make HIS greatness known vs. their own authoritative posturing that perceivably shouldn’t be questioned.

Never stop with pursuits in intimacy with our Lord, but more that lends itself unto obeisance; anything less has become the familiarity that breeds contempt.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Euphemism vs. Literal” G. Ward

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.” John 7:38

Great harm in sharing faith as an easy, widely acceptable position attained by any/many, has become the irreverence of man regarding Holy God. The Master of the universe is not on the throne of mercy synonymous with being a bad boss just wanting control; but desires mankind to know Him as their Maker. When an invention perceives superiority over the Inventor who established every component of their being with eternal ability to sustain them or not, that created being is only deluding themselves (this epitomizes “delusions of grandeur” in psychological profiling).

Today’s disciple (without hierarchal parameter) must ready himself for endurance. Many hate Jesus’ name as demonstrated when HE walked the earth and others only want Him on their own terms. There are few reliant on the Spirit’s implicit guidance that offers “cooling water” unto a spiritually parched society of believers that understands “Truth” amidst a degenerate world is yet unpopular. Will you stand?

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “A Devotionalist’s Nightmare” G. Ward

“For forty years I loathed that generation, and said they are a people who err in their heart, and they do not know My ways. “Therefore I swore in My anger, truly they shall not enter into My rest.” Psalm 95:10-11

Here are the Apostle Paul’s words unto the church, “You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews; how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ac.20:18b-21).

Have we become so entirely obedient in our vast supply unto others concerning the things of God that we need to be continuously motivated to reach towards moments never promised (cf. Heb.11:3-13)? Sadly, our orations won’t demand repentance and particularly that which shares a consequence for un-reconciled sin. Moreover, don’t dare share the whole scroll, just those that bolsters days in euphoria…

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Time Out” G. Ward

Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, and said, “Remember now, O Lord, I beseech You, how I have walked before You in truth and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.” Isaiah 38:2-3

We’ve seen it on many an unfortunate occasion; gathering within a hospital scope as a loved one lies within whereby the doctors have done all they could do. The surety of the inevitable escapes us within these moments, particularly relative to our own demise. Without spiritual cognizance of what could be, that is, a blessed reality (cf. Jn.14:1-3), there’s often one led to remind HOLY GOD of what He said in His own word regarding healing. Could it (the biblical reference for healing) really be referring to the work the Savior provided for our eternality vs. physical healing in view of every human vulnerable to this reality (cf. Isa.53:1-5)? King Hezekiah prayed for an extension and received an additional 15 years, but don’t forget that he, Lazarus, The woman with the issue of blood, Peter’s mother in law, the royal official’s son and all thereafter had to die after being healed. Salvation preached today ensures that health become inconsequential as eternity permits (cf. Ro.8:18). Are you ready (*Ps.95:7-8)?

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “One In a Million” G. Ward

“At this time Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren (a gathering of about one hundred and twenty persons was there together), and said…” Acts 1:15

Our involvement in spiritual matters that has regard for sharing Truth from Holy God’s standard (esoterically), may seem very small on today, but can carry optimal reverberation for future generations. The joy in this consideration obscures the presenter and more highlights where the Message emanates (*cf. 1 Cor. 2:4-5). Ultimately, relying on this Refuge establishes a practice that seeks to yield one’s own perspective (cf. Ac.2:44) that remains entirely argumentative, unreliable and lacks resolve. Preach JESUS first to yourself by admitting you’ve missed the mark, then quickly recapitulate to the path given you and find another needing restoration.

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Oppositional Forces” G. Ward

“But many of those who had heard the message believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.” Acts 4:4

A proclamation in perceived righteousness that may emanate from our theorizing deserves opposing views (it helps to maintain balance); but when our orations seek to impose generous love (that’s entirely inclusive) it’s very troubling. We must remember that conformity unto something entirely opposite of our carnality’s perspective is called into question (i.e. desiring transformation), evasiveness to this demand is/has been the natural course of man (cf. Jn.15:20).

The attributes of Holy God is our daily striving (Eph.5:1-2). The Lord is faithful. Hide yourself behind the Great “I AM” by staying true to the message.

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Extra-Curricular” G. Ward

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1

The beauty in growing older is that reasonable mindsets gravitate unto self interrogation that denies great error from surfacing ever again. Absolute recall of varied events of error caused tremendous pain (self-inflicted and harm towards others), that should seek to warn others by exemplifying a life of peace with better continuity unto most (cf. Titus 2:1-8).

A life that’s youthful may subtract from this kind of slow-down, overwhelmed in selfish (even wanton) desire. Moreover, there exists in a predominant way, thoughts very abhorrent to dependence on anything; perpetuating competition of sorts that relies on strength not found in seniors.

Every contrast life may offer will ultimately be forced to reconcile this current generation’s existence in view of all those of past generations (cf. Ps.90:10-12); both perspectives and tangibles tarnish. Furthermore, we’ll all discover that every mindset was wrong, because it was never ours to decipher (*cf. 1 Cor.6:19-20).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Appeal to Accompaniment” G. Ward

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1

What will a best friend say about your life upon departure? Who may be best in doing so? Have you had a best friend; One who was/is so very superior to your character? John, the gospel writer, sought to pervade his best Friend unto any, including an inarguable appeal unto a predominant message of great philosophy that impressed an entire Empire. John knew that his best Friend’s embrace was enough to hold the entirety of mankind.

Those days found the Message too simplistic. John’s testimonial (i.e. the Word became flesh 1:14) contradicted their anticipation of kingliness vs. HIS actuality as a regular Person (cf. Isa.53:1-3). These days proclaim HIM as Lord without insisting on the intimacy John preferred. Vain philosophies in our modernity seem to be winning, but I prefer to tell you about my Friend who will stick closer to you than a brother (cf. Ac.4:12).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “The Recesses of My Mind” G. Ward

 “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25

There’s a new term utilized to “pretty up” what has been deemed a lie; it’s “mis-spoke”. The actuality of the initial violation regretted allowing a statement to come forth and desires a “cover-up.” Altogether it’s comparable to a drunken uncle’s word denying next day’s confrontation where sobriety exists, except this stupor is without inebriates.

Having personal acquaintance with stupid has often been my necklace of choice. So why should I permanently, or temporarily discount another’s desire to re-capitulate as afforded me? We cannot forget that we’re products of mercy. The pardoning Heaven renders emanates from you and me as yet violating (Ro.3:23); so when another mis-appropriates what should be peace, please remember personal embodiment therein.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Contentment” G. Ward

“Abraham breathed his last and died in a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life; and he was gathered to his people.” Genesis 25:8

I was overwhelmed on last evening in traveling to the home of friends who recently moved to a senior community. This posh community was astounding, including every amenity imaginable. I drove through the gate refusing a map from the attendant whereby my 27 minute drive in lost-ness compelled me to make the call for help (Can you say typical man?).

Kudos to the planner/developer of such a community. I believe this environment of serenity will aid in a holistic approach that promotes even greater longevity for the residents therein. Moreover, the senior’s presence in peaceable perspective has always been the visual necessary unto furthered, exemplar servant-hood that impacts future generations (questioning eternality). Rarely will youth imagine a time when earth’s departure is near; it’s therefore necessary to view, then hear from recipients of grace soon to inherit their reward for implicit trust in Holy God (cf. Titus.2:1-8). Deborah doesn’t know it yet, but I’m soon to go there again to render a check for earnest money’s sake (send your donations to…).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Lone Wolf” G. Ward

“Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.” Luke 21:34-35

The day of great choice is with a component in contrasting entertainment value and has become the tag for most life applications. Faith matters are no different. We join faith organizations for professional advancement and social attractiveness, while TRUTH remains at the bottom of the totem pole. These concessions in compromise are opposite of humanity’s holy demand (*cf. Jn.4:24). God’s word is timelessly made applicable for every generation. Our demand in spiritual matters insists on categorizing oration from preachers vs. content and it appears there’s no turning back (*cf. 1 Cor.2:1-5). Moreover, worship unto the Lord is with an unbalanced ratio, embracing more individual preference than implicit praise for HIS greatness.

If the patriarchs of faith matters endured tragic consequences for blatant mistrust of God’s oracle, is there exemption for us?

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Without Consideration” 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

Understanding what to do never rests solely on the knowledge therein, but is regarded on High when one determines wise follow-ship as spiritual conformity unto those authoritative impartations (cf. Jas.1:18-22). Moreover, great study of God’s word lacks prudence and credibility when lives echo sentiments of “I Got This” vs. surrender at all times and places unto Infinite Wisdom. We don’t have long in proving sole allegiance that establishes the practice necessary in seeing HIM face to face (1 Thess.5:2-6).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Solemn Confrontation” G. Ward

“In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live.” 2 Kings 20:1

As a boy I would often encounter being troubled then desiring empathy from other family members that rarely happened because I was so entirely selfish. My limited knowledge couldn’t juxtapose concern for others; I was right and everyone else was wrong.

As a grandfather of three, I often encounter trouble, but these times don’t compel me to hold my breath until I die, or journeying to the backyard digging a tunnel so deep that descends to China. My limited knowledge yet fails to acknowledge the patience with mercy shown me as a universal dispensation (Mt.5:45). Perhaps selfishness has diminished some, but certainly not enough. Concern for others first, should be a daily desired goal (Phil.2:4). Unlike King Hezekiah’s request for additional life, I don’t proclaim a need for additional time, but I thank my Lord for all He’s granted. In conclusion, you’d be proud to know that I’m working on maturity. Besides that, if I attempt holding my breath at this autumn in my life, I really will die (Can you say old?)!

Happy Wednesday!