Today’s Thought “Naught of Earth Unmoved Can Stand!” G. Ward

Luke 4:38-39 Then He got up and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s home. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked Him to help her.  And standing over her, He rebuked the fever, and it left her; and she immediately got up and waited on them.

Christmas, along with the season has me as a believer pursuant to the works of Christ. I marvel at His unrelenting dedication to God the Father, then mankind; forgetting about oppositional forces and Himself (*cf. Eph.5:1-2). It is written to impel us in the same and every consideration opposite violates the love relationship intended.

Howbeit that every case of sickness given Jesus immediately witnessed those victims restored without furthered visitation of procedure (i.e. prescriptions, treatments, etc.)? Absolutely yes! He alone is the Great Physician; but His display of power understood sickness, sufferings and death would always be in mankind. Those miracles were solely accomplished to display Holy God’s power onto proposed belief from mankind (cf. Matt.12:38-39). We, on the other hand selfishly use all HE did (death on the cross on our behalf - cf. Isa. 53:4-6) for our deliverance from sin to more suggest our potential sickness has already been conquered; but yet many of us still die therein. Whenever you encounter scripture with pause that defies perceived actuality, there’s no need to doubt what is written, but more embrace your finite position in earth against Infinite Wisdom’s best care for you without presupposition.

Today’s Thought “God Is Not Santa…” G. Ward

Mark 1:35 “In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there.”

Mark’s account of Jesus more sought to present Him as the suffering Servant along with His deeds. Moreover, the designation Christ embraced mankind and our need for deliverance from sin; teaching us the essence of sacrifice through praise and how it empties onto perfect obedience. It’s therefore incumbent on us to regard HIM our Exemplar Leader. That supreme leadership offers the most superlative precursor for sojourning through life in peaceable success and fosters greater soul development leading to dependence on what was shown and not just talked about.

While we’ve been more taught that Jesus is on the main line and call Him and tell Him what you want, HE, on the other hand modeled give the King of the universe all He demands…

Today’s Thought “The Mediocrity Within” G. Ward

Matthew 2:4

“Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.”

The conversion experience (spiritually) begins when one’s humble inquiry demands an answer and won’t relent until it’s found (cf. 1 Pe.3:15). It (i.e. conversion) can be best when lack of exposure unto church polity was their experience; making the innocence of inquiry more receptive to biblical truth.

How dare any considerate of the role as a disciple of Holy God’s construction allow a new convert’s exploration of the mystery our Lord presents (*1 Ti.3:16), to become compromise exercised as those same converts witness false tranquility from those deemed spiritually mature? Their (new convert’s inquiry) posture in unrelenting interrogation of truth should be led by us to more exemplify a journey in pleasure that keeps giving.

Today’s Thought “Escape Hatch” G. Ward

John 10:10

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

For the believer, the object of their faith is Jesus, no other will do. Intimacy spent with this Mighty King prepares every disciple for an incessant presence from others who’ve designated themselves a spiritual leader and these are evident by their forceful discourses without proper pursuit of the absolutism in God’s word (2 Ti.2:15). Moreover, they choose varied selective verses known to most, having rehearsed them and creating impression onto those lacking spiritual prudence by first heralding their titles and credentials vs. a humility that regards the Only Sufficient One. Our thematic passage on today is indicative of such warning, having absolutely nothing to do with the Devil, but the aforementioned (**cf. Jn.10:1-2). The necessary goal is forgetting yesterday’s inaccuracy by insisting that Heaven recognize me in my need to come to HIM wholly/holy…

Today’s Thought “Support Onto A Monarch” G. Ward

Romans 8:28

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

 

While believers are called to pray for leaders (spiritually and politically), theirs must be preeminently faithful to the King of every king. As a pastor I’m often asked by congregants where I stand on politics to which my response always shares that true resolve for every matter is solely found in Jesus. HE can take man’s impropriety, transposing evil therein to serve this present age. Moreover and altogether what did HE do? Did HE talk God and country? Did HE campaign for the emperor because that same emperor supported two issues relative to His Father’s agenda? You, human being, don’t have to awaken heaven to sufferings in earth, but must awake to His rule while having breath! Divisiveness then, remains divisiveness now and the cure is still the same and ambivalence to completely adjust to the Master’s way (particularly in that regard) reveals a lack of trust in His Sufficiency (incidentally, that’s called blatant sin). To know my politics AND/ALONG with my Redeemer never witnesses to a world needing Jesus’ forgiveness.

Today’s Thought “Awaiting Another Prophecy” G. Ward

John 6:66-68

 As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore.  So Jesus said to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.

Heretics prey on the practices believers pervade on society, particularly during the lengthy Christmas season. It can often compel believers into defense mode, up to an insistence we vocalize the term Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holiday as if that will bring them to truth (* vv.59-64). Moreover, tremendous offense from believers happens when these same heretical leaders refer to the pagan origin of this holiday as if this is really a spiritual epiphany for any. In other words you’re telling me there’s no workshop at the North Pole?

The missing component is unadulterated worship of the only KING; who never sought personal pleasure, or defense for Himself, along with never rallying the troops for social injustice, compelling us in the same (Eph.5:1-2). Our modernity really doesn’t accept the words of Christ as the cure-all; we want to co-pilot to ensure an imminent crash (Isa.55:8-9).

Today’s Thought “Raised to Know Right vs. Wrong” G. Ward

Genesis 39:2-4 The Lord was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. ³ Now his master saw that the Lord was with him and how the Lord caused all that he did to prosper in his hand. ⁴ So Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge.

Diligence in Holy God has become Heaven’s demand so that the world’s narrative of nothing shall befall me because all are presumably children of the Most High. Every patriarch of faith knew differently and our Savior Himself endured many sorrows along with abusive rejection. Our foreparents exposure to life never considered enjoining themselves to such songs as No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper, but more observed (contextually) Isaiah 54:17 as prophetic for Israel to which still is a future hope.

The innocence of Joseph never thought his own would sell him into slavery, particularly in a godless land. Moreover, his commitment to Excellence didn’t relent, but sought doing his best in a strange land. While God still rains on the just and unjust and whereas there’s the mention of prosperity in the storyline relative to material possessions, the real blessings from God is His never forsaking those whose reliance is solely on HIM…

Today’s Thought “A Voice In the Wind” G. Ward

Ezekiel 33:1-4

And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ² “Son of man, speak to the sons of your people and say to them, ‘If I bring a sword upon a land, and the people of the land take one man from among them and make him their watchman, ³ and he sees the sword coming upon the land and blows on the trumpet and warns the people, ⁴ then he who hears the sound of the trumpet and does not take warning, and a sword comes and takes him away, his blood will be on his own head.

 

The beauty in disseminating what “thus says the Lord” demands that any hearer not pervade their frustrations on the sayer, but the Author. Yes, I awakened to fooling myself, because the actuality is there are very few convicted or convinced of a storyline emanating from another, particularly when the messenger states it so authoritatively, demanding spiritual metamorphosis. It’s therefore incumbent on the sayer to re-state many times their lowly position via incessant recognition that all the information shared applies to every soul (including the sayer). Ezekiel, the prophet was regarded as the “watchman” and his calling to fulfill was never to regard his own power of persuasion that could lead others to a conversion experience, but to remain personally foundational therein; remembering God’s warning is His patience unto man (cf. 1 Cor.6:9-11).

Today’s Thought “Fables Accepted” G. Ward

 

Titus 1:10-11 “For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, ¹¹ who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for the sake of sordid gain.”

 

I’m reminded on today of the ministry given me at our church. Each year offered opportunity for one or more seeking to discredit the authenticity of God’s word (cf. 1 Sa. 8:4-7). There was some periodical they read or a documentary viewed that convinced them of some ulterior plan and while their questioning first happened with me as Pastor, the same doubt continued whereas 5 others were exposed to the same sermon. Trouble for/in the local church happens within and the Apostle Paul urged his compatriot Titus to diffuse this poisonous possibility through special appointment of qualified elders (vs.5). The wholeness of this plan still instructs our today. It’s a readiness necessary for our family at the dinner table that refuses to pile on more doubt and philosophy, but offers authoritative reconciliation; reminding every hearer desiring a love relationship with Christ that when doubt arises (i.e. while endeavoring God’s Word), it’s not the inaccuracy of God’s word that needs questioning, it’s your unbelief…

Today’s Thought “The Way to Glory” G. Ward

 

2 Timothy 2:15-16 ”Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.  But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness.”

 

We’re at an all-time low. Obedience is with a varied definition. Preachers are declaring political stances vs. truest reconciliation in Christ, denying unbelievers light unto their paths. Wrong is construed as right and children are forced onto their own determinations.

The Apostle Paul sought to warn young believing Timothy of a similar posture. Paul knew of his time as short, delighting in a protégé like Timothy. Unlike the straining of today from preachers, the pulpits then didn’t include the exorbitant lifestyles pervaded unto our era; instead the message of suffering was chieftain and still is (*cf. Deut.18:20). The gospel’s supremacy and relevancy is timeless, seeking to hide men from this perverse generation and it appears mankind’s insistence to be out front outweighs the demands from the Most High, making more agents in regression.

If/when your warnings lack the similitude shared by Paul onto the protégé in front of you, don’t consider presence with the LORD something to grasp. The grip of grace offered you and me on today, is the comfort for days hereafter whereby perfect peace exists.

Today’s Thought “Mercy Found Me” G. Ward

Psalm 31:19-22

¹⁹ How great is Your goodness,
Which You have stored up for those who fear You,
Which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You,
Before the sons of men!
²⁰ You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the conspiracies of man;
You keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues.
²¹ Blessed be the Lord,
For He has made marvelous His lovingkindness to me in a besieged city.
²² As for me, I said in my alarm,
“I am cut off from before Your eyes”;
Nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications
When I cried to You.

Stress kills. It robs us of joy and the constant rehearsal therein denies a verse in song that insists, “I once was lost in sin, but Jesus took me in and then a little light from Heaven filled my soul. He bathed my heart in love and wrote my name above and just a little talk with Jesus made me whole.”

Feeling unworthy is two-fold; it first is unbelief because the Best was presented us with a King who loves us despite our unworthiness and then it’s the essence in humility that insists I’m nothing without HIM. The shelter from the Most High will miniscule the agony of every point in indifference we’re exposed. Praise His Holy Name!

Today’s Thought “With Appearances…” G. Ward

Philippians 1:27

“Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

The gospel is the good news offering life forgiveness, Shelter from misery’s penetration and an eternity with Holy God through a reconstruction only HE provides. When any fail to prove their change that contrasts the opinionated person of old (along with their many perspectives) with insistence on finding resolution in earth’s proven tactics (i.e. only temporary) over the Most High’s excellence, it’s no wonder to witness such disunity among men! Moreover, it’s penetrated the church because many attendees are on their way to identifying what’s spiritually acceptable and others refuse altogether thinking the next one needs change (Phil.1:19).

Believers are called to live according to their confession of Jesus as Lord. In other terms, He’s my new Owner, a gentle Ruler and if I know Him I should act like it (cf. Ps.139:7-12)!

Today’s Thought “Smothered Chicken, A Thing of the Past” G. Ward

Amos 9:3 “Though they hide on the summit of Carmel, I will search them out and take them from there; and though they conceal themselves from My sight on the floor of the sea, From there I will command the serpent and it will bite them.”

Grandmothers and Mothers alike would begin creating an attitude for worship day around Thursday evening in times past. Children’s clothing would be mended, satisfying growth spurts uncontrollable; along with meal planning that determined who would be invited. We’ve been raised in these traditions to now more embrace ingenuity’s convenience. While spontaneity is celebrated, we’ll forget that it may disallow greater planning that perhaps serves as a moment in reflection of Who brought me thus far and insist on restoration therein (*cf. Joel 2:12).

Like the Prophet Amos, preachers of today seek to pervade on mankind the same message. To say you know Him, is to do what HE says and the chieftain of violation is furthered when worship services are forsaken (Heb. 10:25). Irresponsibility thereafter is answerable to whether an eternity exists with A Creator who never ceased in loving you.

Today’s Thought “Praying for Enemy Lines” G. Ward

Jonah 1:1-3 The word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, ^“Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.”  But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.

Rarely will a preacher of today have to explain Jonah’s plight to a congregation; that’s exactly where the problem may begin. When any view scripture in abstract, believing it more applicable to someone vs. themselves, it absolutely corrupts. Enemy lines are drawn the more, based on impossibility thinking, along with lack of trusting God. Our Creator’s purpose still seeks to impose deeper contemplation unto a soul HE owns and the problem remains; it’s not that others won’t cooperate; we just refuse to surrender – denying blessings. Nineveh came to repentance, shaming Israel in their unbelief; whereas our modernity is with a Nineveh called false religion and our wicked categorization of mankind (translated arrogance) is allowing it to spread like gangrene; so get off the boat Jonah and compel them to come in the house!

Today’s Thought “More Taxes?” G. Ward

Deuteronomy 14:28-29

 “At the end of every third year you shall bring out all the tithe of your produce in that year, and shall deposit it in your town.  The Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance among you, and the alien, the orphan and the widow who are in your town, shall come and eat and be satisfied, in order that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hand which you do.

The brave, sold-out bell ringers will appear soon. It’s not the holidays until their arrival. Outside of most major retail outlets The Salvation Army will exist seeking to become a major capillary for benevolence for so many communities and not for just a limited season. Kudos to every missionary in this Christian service and may you be blessed in perfect consideration as you give generously.

For all who desire to give but are “heavy laden” with self-seeking ministers desirous of another exotic vehicle; don’t allow the wicked propagandizing relative of a few, discourage every/all consideration in addressing the “Poor among us.” Moreover, when you give, remember the analytical interrogation of where your fifty cents rests is God’s business, not yours (cf. Ps.24:1)…

Today’s Thought “But He Smells Bad” G. Ward

Luke 14:12-14

He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

A believer’s approach to most situations must never seek to find a personal benefit, but bring honor to their own Deliverer. Moreover, to think my spiritual position involving separatism as synonymous with a no interactivity code (with the world) re-invents an opposite standard of Christ’s many visits with unbelievers (*Matt.9:10-13). The sanctification HE requires (from believers) is an attitude of determination that lives out a creed of being owned by this gentle Savior. So yes, drop your frayed blankets, cups of soup, socks, etc., at your local urban area in vivid depletion, but Jesus would consider taking them home and washing them (*home more refers to the message of hope); love is intentional…

Today’s Thought “A Pass On History Class Please?” G. Ward

Isaiah 26:4 “Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.”

 

The History given us (nationally, globally, politically etc.) is with significance, seeking to thwart what could be a repetitive cycle in error. Similarly, there’s a cultural intolerance for today that celebrates great ingenuity that more identifies modern devices as more excellent than anything produced before (Tell that to some of us that remembered our first 8-track player.). Guidance from worldly mishap remains a good teacher, but best instruction continues in/by Truth’s standard (Jn.14:6).

While great minds existed in every era for mankind, particularly with their many proposals in sufficiency, interrogation unto all generations will only see success for individuals that sought (without relent) shelter from the Rock of Ages and it didn’t preclude they couldn’t be used to invent the Apple mobile phone of that time, but meant the prompting would emanate from the Creator, to then insist it brought HIM glory…

Today’s Thought “This and That” G. Ward

Ephesians 5:15-17

“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, ^making the most of your time, because the days are evil.  So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

For me there’s no greater song than Louis Armstrong’s version of What A Wonderful World; particularly in view of what was his talented, careful groggy inflection, unique for every generation. Altogether his voice was authoritative, it more conveyed the simplicity of wisdom’s delight and how it must first begin with humility, or reception of what’s greater to perceive over that of man’s construction (cf. Ps.24:1).

We would all do well in daily visitation of quiet moments to assess every aspiration and to do so before any day’s interactivity with others, so that my pardoning from On High may become theirs (*Matt.5:16).

Today’s Thought “Answerable” G. Ward

1 John 2:6 “The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.”

The baby cries and immediately gets milk; to then become the adult having heard mixed virtue from many teachers that (through unorganized consensus) sanctions an honest gain of sorts as entirely permissive. Discernment of such (through default) always relies on those prior challenges introduced, whereas answers may have been a “no-brainer” or demands immediate interactivity with another seemingly more knowledgeable.

Faith is not subjective, but preeminently considers the Object of their affection, and although the practice therein has become that of imperfection with man, the easement in appreciated practice (1 Ti.4:6-10) renders peace now and unfolds contentment when/if the Lord permits another day.

Today’s Thought “A Beginning Questioned” G. Ward

John 6:63  “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.”

 

Free will was given man so he could love His Creator freely vs. a robotic compelling. Insofar as many identify with Holy God through Christ, some more perpetuate a notion of HIM as theirs although failing in a quest unexplored (2 Ti.2:15). Furthered reliance on His mercy has become synonymous with a similar concept exercised in most marital relationships; an abusive taking Him for granted (2 Cor. 11:2). Why? Because HE remains the Life to which He spoke about (Jn.14:6). While my sinful position seeks personal interrogation of total dependence on Him, it precludes any idea (from me) of another not qualifying, yet HIS omniscience cannot be denied; Jesus knew/knows the heart of every man.

Today’s Thought “This Is Jeopardy!” G. Ward

Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. “

Alex Trebek has been the host of the game show "Jeopardy!" for 35 years and recently received a diagnosis of stage 4 pancreatic cancer. His love for what he does compelled him to talk initially of beating this grim prognosis. After numerous treatments that emptied into ineffectiveness, he admitted tremendous regret with such an impetuous stance of beating anything,  to now more embody greater concession of the inevitable (Heb.9:27).

I’m certainly not familiar with his spiritual stance yet hoping for the best, but I do know of a mercy emanating from heaven that knew of this day from the beginning. When any reasonable are given such a forecast, all the riches and fame (including knowledge – *Matt.24:35) are horribly insignificant, whereas an inherent calling to fulfill (Ge.1:26-31) should surface in every man (particularly in view of Holy God’s LOVE for every man) that causes the question of vitality to assess whether an assurance of Jesus as LORD exists?

Today’s Thought “The Grandeur of Daylight Savings Time” G. Ward

 

Romans 13:12

The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

 

Night-time is always indicative of man’s presumptive thoughts that keep us susceptible to Satan’s devices (cf. Jer.17:9). Daytime however, remains a sobriety achievable onto realization that Holy God’s success has been from the beginning; rendering an unwavering, perfect governance, merciful and just for any choosing to awake.

Today’s Thought “Midnight Creeper” G. Ward

 

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

 But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.

 

Earth’s presentation for mankind is a limited scope that should involve a preparation unto an eternity spent with the Only One who knows of every activity (body, soul and spirit - cf.1 Jn.5:3). The anticipation of the Redeemer’s return must remain frontal to our every moment so as to establish a pattern pleasing to the One who owns whether the next moment is our experience and the beauty for any having denied this practice on yesterday, TODAY was given that the race is still with a jersey befitting for you (*Phil.2:10-11).

Today’s Thought “Familiarity, A Wicked Blossom” G. Ward

 

Psalm 18:20-21 The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness; According to the cleanness of my hands He has recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God.

 

There’s a rehearsal exercised by most rational when they’re soon to encounter an official of global proportion that interrogates a response suitable, including slight timidity that desires to get it absolutely correct. Moreover, the garments to be worn (for such an occasion) have a preliminary contemplation that won’t afford other task’s entry for a soul soon to exact a boast concerning such an acquaintance.

Reverence for the LORD (* Matt.6:9-12)…

Today’s Thought “Defection Within” G. Ward

 

Jude 1:4 “For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.”

 

Christians seek to carry the good news of redemption regardless of a past unworthy of presentation. Moreover, theirs inspire any to “wait on the Lord” that enjoins them onto a peace misunderstood by most. Our spiritual institutions welcome every category of mankind to often forget the dissolution of worldly concepts is the accompaniment soon obscured by the best authoritative path (cf. Jn.14:6). Prior thoughts of success involves an aptitude for tasks embracing worship (cf.1 Cor.2:1-2), while forgetting that every progenitor of faith occupied sole reliance with Holy God operating through them, only requiring their availability, not talent or presumed giftedness.

Most places of worship rely on proficiency exemplified in secular work that designates these individuals leaders, while others are subject to humiliation as they endeavor the yardwork, cleaning and kitchen responsibilities. The “common salvation” mentioned by Jude (vs.3) sought promoting unity and fellowship without distinction. The vulnerability of man pursuant to the unadulterated words from God, extinguish ideas of vain philosophy proposed by many infiltrators that maintain frequency in most congregations. Real joy exists in an unrelenting demand to trust in the written guide that delivers eternal satisfaction vs. the next great party that corrupts.

Today’s Thought “How Did He Get Here?” G. Ward

Matthew 17:3 “And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.”

 

With one singular sin judgment from another precludes our inauthenticity. The report from Holy God on the other hand, determines to hear our repentance, then  regards our pursuit to enjoin our entire being onto HIS control (Gal.2:20). At this special event (i.e. the Transfiguration) Jesus insists that a few of His closest constituents accompany Him to witness a great talk with the original recipient of the Law and one by faith who sought strongly to destroy horrendous false worship of a god many Israelites began to accept. Luke said this talk embodied talk of the Savior’s death (Lk.9:31), enabling rest (sole trust in HIS efforts on our behalf – Eph.2:8-9). Life for Christians never guaranteed behavioral perfection, but fervent desire therein and while some pay attention to the bloopers, they’re subject to miss deliverance intended for them.

Today’s Thought “Inner City Kid” G. Ward



Exodus 2:9-10 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. ¹⁰ The child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter and he became her son. And she named him Moses, and said, “Because I drew him out of the water.”



From race-mixing to social castes, we’ve understood very little about the LORD’S creation. HE made them male and female (Ge.1:26-27) and every delineation thereafter is a social construct. The Chinese are not inherently better at math and all Asian Indians are not pursuant to ownership of a local fast food establishment.

There is however an insistence from our Creator that guarantees great residual factoring for the whole of boys and girls (*Deut.6:4-7, Pr.22:6). The commandment that makes any parent responsible unto their progeny never implied we take them to church, yet insists they become the church. Echoing that sentiment (i.e. “I raised them in the church.”) when a series of wrong turns occur later in life, won’t matter until realization is permitted via consistent attendance at your perspective place of worship to then become the accentuation of what home demanded through modeling while teaching what belief is said to be. No matter the culture or ethnicity, great potential is best imposed spiritually (cf. Matt.24:35).

Today’s Thought “Pervading the Highest Standard” G. Ward

Romans 12:20  “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”

 

Jesus at His most intense moment in being crucified said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” His prayer wasn’t limited to such an occasion, but sought to encompass future believer-ship (cf. Ac.2:41-47).

While many awaken to Monday’s miseries, they rarely contemplate how it denies every opportunity for peace (Ps.118:24). At some point I must determine to not allow such ill recognition and impatience to become despair. The real enemy is within and I must allow the soul provided me to undergird the spiritual transformation necessary that can change my view of others and circumstances. If I’m a messenger of hope, based on my having been shown mercy, I must insist on being merciful...

Today’s Thought “If I’m Not Too Busy…” G. Ward

Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

 

The struggle in consistent, unrelenting attendance to worship services reveals more self-indulgence than a God-centered life says the preacher. The commands of God are said not to be burdensome (1 Jn.5:3). Full commitment unto oneself (i.e. loving yourself) is the chieftain of violation (*2 Ti.3:1-5) and when most consider such pursuit, more dissatisfaction occurs leading to a varied sin that denies peace. My personal straining unto fully embracing corporate worship understands (without categorization) a practice I’ve established in ideology (i.e. perspectives and opinions) that subtracts from perfect, authoritative guidance that empties into an eternal presence with my Creator, not because I’ve been good enough, but HE certainly is.

 

Today’s Thought “Forked Tongue” G. Ward

 

1 Peter 2:9 “ But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

 

Resource, the word is said to be with trickery. It’s emblematic of the prefix re and can be either an indicator of something repetitious or motioning backwards. The objective therein for believers is clear; proclamation unto the Source for their supply is essential and when the path of righteousness deviates onto a way of uncertainty, recapitulation becomes necessary.

Adherence to words that seek to make Him known beyond the parameter of what’s philosophically acceptable, along with political resolve and the establishment that furthers social revolt has become (pervasively so) the re-source more proclaiming the truest and only Source, insufficient and we know “Nothing is too difficult for Thee…”

Today’s Thought “The Voice Behind the GPS” G. Ward

 

Luke 23:1-2 Then the whole body of them got up and brought Him before Pilate.  And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this man misleading our nation and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, and saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.”

 

To imitate Christ involves a continual focus on His works that maintain Supremacy over value systems the world offers, along with improper follow-ship of many seemingly righteous (Ro.3:10). When any decide to devote themselves to this cause in eternality, it can appear lonely to others who embrace greater sociability at every turn. Instead, this position is favored when practiced in diligence, feeling naked in a great crowd when spiritual focus is lost to then quickly return to the Shelter from the Savior who always desires our return. I Shall Not Be Moved…

Today’s Thought “God Understands?” G. Ward

1 John 5:3 “ For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.”

 

Religions are ever increasing these days through presumptive reasoning from earth’s citizenry. Although the ultimate script for every life demands blind faith, the out-sourcing for empowerment rests seemingly with visuals of prosperity to then make it an unrelenting pursuit. The rationalization therein seeks to justify the quest through insistence that God won’t mind (1 Ti.6:10), never to think of themselves as a perpetrator of the most heinous crime; implicit trust of the Creator’s rule (cf. Lk.23:34).

Inconsistent worship that nurtures and establishes greater discipline (that surrenders) is the culprit ( Jer.17:9) and for any that witnessed their awakening on today, it more reveals the Savior’s love and patience for the soul determined in mediocrity soon to end (*2 Cor.6:2).

Today’s Thought “Success Is…” G. Ward

 

Matthew 26:11 “For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me.”

Think on this; “I’d rather be poor, than rich in uncertainty.” Singing Blessed Assurance won’t grant it; nor will efforts in humanitarianism and hospitality.

While my personal demand and delight enjoys the land to which I live, I’m perpetually aware (particularly with temperature drops nationally, along with its inadequacies for many depleted of varied resources) of the sociological implications of many that seemingly lack aspiration to reside in some of America’s clean and posh neighborhoods. The insensitivity from those perplexed with why some choose dirty, squalid conditions is the chieftain to their soul’s self absorption without posture in review as to the Savior’s plight for any/all men, whether living behind the gates or in the streets…

Today’s Thought “Vile Practices at My Worship Spot” G. Ward

 

1 Corinthians 5:3-5 “For I, on my part, though absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged him who has so committed this, as though I were present. In the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are assembled, and I with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus, I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.”

 

While the believer determines to live a consecrated life unto the unadulterated words from Holy God, there are others (with partial spiritual cognizance) whose blend is with an element of poison that kills slowly (cf. Matt.16:24). To judge frivolity therein, arrives with great criticism from outsiders; particularly with their defense mechanisms that demand “you’re no better, so don’t judge” (Jn.8:16, 1 Cor.2:15, 5:3, 12, 6:2-3, 1 Jn.4:1)! Truth demanded won’t conjure from insufficiency internally, but relies on what’s proven (*2 Pe.1:20-21). Judgments occur often with each of us, but it should never be a self construct, but emanate from the authoritative demand of the LORD and His proprietorship of us gives ability to construe uncompromisingly so.

Today’s Thought “Work, A Four-Letter Word” G. Ward

 

Luke 7:1 “When He had completed all His discourse in the hearing of the people, He went to Capernaum.”

 

Those deemed to have a good work ethic will generally concern themselves with great character within the realm of vocation endeavored. Careful observation however, will view presumed lack in the area of family or friends that denies energy (i.e. tolerance) for a varied personality trait found in another (un-equaled to themself) and that same denial forbids social graciousness. To more see others for their spiritual potential was the driving force of the Savior (*vv.2-10). The spiritual transformation HE would soon offer those who believe, ultimately witnessed a new dedication onto the excellence shown by their Deliverer (cf. Matt.5:16, Ps.37:5). For any preacher of the good news, you’ll need to act accordingly. The work given us doesn’t strive solely unto any pulpit without forgetting a grassroots ethic in seeking those needing spiritual reprieve after corporate worship services.

Today’s Thought “What Seemed Impossible…” G. Ward

Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

All that we presume on Holy God with strife presented us, should first rely on what occurred with those HE loved generations before (cf. Heb.11:8-14). The Apostle Paul endured great sufferings. His appreciation onto the believers for their monetary support (vs.15) sought to encourage them concerning their days ahead; some, like his would propose depletion and others prosperity, but their trusting the Savior (who embodied what sacrifice means) should never waver.

Suffering’s comparability is synonymous to little children’s inoculation before school begins; the unusual pain while such a huge needle punctures tender skin, it appears vicious to contemplate until a varied disease ceases penetration thereafter.

Today’s Thought “Keep Knocking, But You Can’t Come In” G. Ward

 

John 15:14-15 “You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.”

 

Awaiting another periodical of sorts to define the intimacy desired with the Lord denies opening the actual manuscript and allowing proposed intimacy to occur. The relationship intended refers to us as the “bride of Christ” once we believe; so does a bride await the eloquence or authorship of another to communicate with their own husband? Giving up so easily as a student of the Living Word (very particularly as any are inclined only towards those melodious promises from God without careful observation of its contingency vs.14) causes any to be entirely susceptible onto poison from the scholar’s vain philosophy and horrid theology so common for our time (cf. 1 Jn.4:1-3).

Today’s Thought “The Domino Effect” G. Ward

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”

While mankind’s measurement onto moral/spiritual prudence is mostly and perceivably an observation (worthy to grasp) from another man, Jesus Christ remains our perfect example (*cf. Matt.4:1-11). The avoidance therein desires more defense mechanisms because the essence of perfection is one of the most misunderstood biblical phenomena given man. It was never meant as an absence in error, but more posturing towards Heaven’s rule so as to ensure an exemplary life belonging to its Owner. Every mindset that seeks to gather oneself onto this reality (moment to moment) establishes resilience against superficial containments of joy; knowing by blessed assurance that the way of the Lord is without regret.

Today’s Thought “Halloween or Hallelujah Night?” G. Ward

Romans 14:4 “Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”

 

Knowledge’s availability (very particularly as it searches out origins of special days) at an instant can serve as ruin to another’s conscience that desires to promote each day as sacred; not worthy of any worldly interactivity. Believers have conflicted on recognition and interactivity with secular association on days and practices that allows outsider’s criticism of lack in unity. While Holy God gives an authoritative pathway to life’s uncertainties, it remains incumbent onto every priest (1 Pe.2:9) to promote reconciliation without hypocrisy. *There continues to be categorization in perfecting believer-ship although all reliance monolithically embraces their Redeemer (*1 Cor.12:4-7).

Today’s Thought “First In Line” G. Ward

Hebrews 4:16 “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

 

There’s a bilateral position from the mindset of man upon each encounter (soul to soul) that will either render another hopeless, or a view of their rescue (contemplating your own). Mercy obtained can be the frustrating factoring, in that the demand of interrogating, then surrendering one’s own impropriety is the contingency promoting rest (Jas.2:13). The regeneration then offered (particularly upon transformation) will ultimately refuse a champion’s platform because they know Who the real Mighty Conqueror is (*Ro.8:37).

Today’s Thought “Self-Preservation” G. Ward

Luke 22:41-42 And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and began to pray, saying, “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.”

 

Luke’s account of the sufferings of Jesus before crucifixion observed the agony the Savior endured from a physician’s point of view; witnessing extraordinary stress from the Incarnate causing Him to actually sweat blood. Howbeit that such a wonderful Redeemer while in a torturous state (cf. Ro.5:8) could declare that the Father’s desire use Him wherever/however for sin found in you and me (*1 Jn.1:6-8); to now make demands of safety, healing and monetary rescue, while forgetting the progenitors of faith (Heb.11:3-40) having endured great sufferings while testifying that earth was not their home?

Could any of your great-grandparents declare the same perpetuations we’re insistent with? Are we morally more sufficient than that generation (cf. Eph.2:8-9)?

Today’s Thought “Problem Solved” G. Ward

 

Hebrews 12:2 “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

 

The question through song by The Bee Gees (1971) asked “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart” to which remains a struggle. The lyrics emptied with two stanzas expressive of “No one said a word about the sorrow.”

The writer of Hebrews insisted every believer be motivated by the endurance of their spiritual predecessors (Heb.11:2, 4, 5, 33, 39) listed prior and not those spectators of indecision (Heb.12:1). Every individual of faith in that era didn’t witness the achievements of Christ in earth but were yet content with anticipation of His deliverance. It would/did ultimately grant them eternal presence with HIM.

We also are no better than the All-Wise Savior (Jn.15:20). Sufferings are mentioned 84 times alone in the New Testament and while the world says speak it away, generations before couldn’t (*cf. Ro.8:18). Will you decide on today to walk alongside the dispirited/depressed?

Today’s Thought “Bologna Isn’t the Same” G. Ward



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



Altogether, food lacks the flavor of old. Whereas salt and pepper could establish any household’s yearly requirement, we now must consider every herb imaginable. Food’s natural intent (i.e. flavor) is supremely marginalized by a varied “filler” component synonymous with how embalming fluid coagulates existential blood in a corpse whereby a dead body remains intact for an expansive period.

The gospel’s corollary is the same for the believer; warranting a return to the highest priority unto any trusting in Holy God’s reign. We must insist on our spiritual transformation’s first delight, reproduction. If good singing and preaching was ever the catalyst for growth; 1. God would have said so. 2. The local church’s numbers wouldn’t experience decline, but build additional facilities for the real overflow…

Today’s Thought “Insomnia At Work” G. Ward

Psalm 28:2 “Hear the voice of my supplications when I cry to You for help,
when I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary.”

While many may seek to unfold some spectacular television show or a great novel of sorts, my insomnia (currently) desires to fill my soul with something far more substantive, God’s word. *I want to be clear; I’ve suffered with insomnia many times before and like so many surfed more than eight hundred channels looking for the perfect movie, whereas this time the quiet room was so very noisy and I needed rest.

Dependence on Who we regard as LORD must condescend from self determinations onto a spiritual posture that grants peace and when that level of worship becomes the insistence for any that will endure affliction’s visitation (cf. Jas.1:2-4), it won’t conjure up an elixir seemingly sufficient, but enjoin themself unto Who is Omniscient…

Today’s Thought “Unfathomable” G. Ward

Romans 1:17 “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “But the righteous man shall live by faith.”

 

Our believer’s status rarely perceives Holy God’s pursuit of us because of our sin condition (1 Jn.1:8), but HE did. Any identification therefore, that makes HIM co-pilot over the course of life presented, fail to comprehend “worshipping in spirit and truth” (cf. Matt.10:28). There’s absolutely no gift we can present outside of perfect conformity to HIS chartered course planned from the beginning. Moreover and finally, HIS tolerance for any lacking an implicit regard with the proven care HE offers (that demands our total dependence), has become the determination soon unavailable (Ps.90:10-12). Altogether, the essence in being favored never proclaimed you and me favorite (particularly with our giftedness and abilities), just loved.