Today’s Thought “The Eager Beaver” G. Ward

Isaiah 40

²³ It is He who reduces rulers to nothing,
Who makes the judges of the earth meaningless.

 

“When will they listen” is the question of old from those feeling so accomplished in matters of sorts and whereas the questioners’ activities thereafter are immediately under the radar scope and because all men are vulnerable to sin’s plight, boasting of the Creator’s power, knowledge and eternal presence is best.

Israel’s neglect of our Lord’s standard witnessed their captivity in a strange land; they were profoundly influenced by many who’d subvert truth with a similitude in how the first two were exposed. The prophet of our theme was compelled by God to thwart despair furthered by ensuring these captives of a future hope, along with a compassionate Creator who’d escort them back to their homeland and while many would mock that promise as not soon enough, through insistence that God’s people would follow them, our Heavenly Father says those false purveyors would soon be displaced.

Question: Who are you listening to? Are you so enthralled towards their charismatic presence that forgetfulness of their daily fallibilities goes unnoticed? Are they not resembling Holy God by just sharing great things now and ahead without unfolding a preparation for great trials ahead, along with presenting consequences for sin? Stay tuned, their platform is short-lived.

 

Today’s Thought “Supremacy, Knows My Name” G. Ward

Psalm 23:1

The Lord is my shepherd, I will not be in need.

 

Because HE lives on the inside of me, my trembling upon such meditative review in how I’ve acquiesced to chaos unending - makes my head hang low. HE, while in earth certainly taught by example, that consideration of man’s impropriety towards men who’d adopt mantras indifferent from theirs needed love (1 John 4:8) not anger, soon to become hatred. Moreover, our Great Shepherd, expressly embodied compassion as He’d view masses of people - “because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matt.9:36). HIS oppressors sought to kill HIM and He’d lead by example, insisting HIS own would love them and while like those disciples then, we stand perplexed with such inordinary commands and whereas HE prepared them and us in knowing our redemption was given despite our rebellion towards HIM and whereas HE died and was buried and rose in unlimited power, to guide such temporal, limited vessels (you and me) in earth to glory, we say, “Lead us LORD!”

 

Today’s Thought “Trophy Case” G. Ward

Hebrews 11

⁶ And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him.

 

The immediacy onto recognizing the phrase “impossible to please HIM” is a standout for the believer; allowing their interrogation of oneself that questions – am I exemplifying that to which is mostly pleasing for me, or my Savior and then seeks to comply righteously (?).

Those desirous of a love relationship with Christ (but fail to do so on the Almighty’s terms) will more likely hone in with the term “rewards,” conveying a what’s in it for me mentality; particularly since the more predominant religious messaging seeks to impose on the Holy One for conditions of peace, for all times (ill-tolerant of trials) and whereas it appears they’re the bad guys – lethargy from believers is responsible for the exponential growth of false teaching, because they’re/we’re called to the lostness found in some that creates greatest spiritual foundation.

“Today” exists so all may bless the Name of the LORD!

 

Today’s Thought “Presumption: Squashed by Interrogation” G. Ward

Exodus 20:7

“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.”

 

The very word “vain” indicates an emptiness, or irreverence and whereas a believer’s life is utterly contained by Christ rule and reign, our mouths and activities must be representative of this ownership. Moreover, it cannot proclaim trials of sorts as so existentially overwhelming to then seek to assist their Owner; HE remains All power and knowledge and has need of nothing, even calling attention to that actuality by insisting we know HIS “burden is light” (i.e., nothing is too difficult for HIM).

We must cease with irreverence of HIS Word that prepares our knowing that peace can exist amidst troubles (John 14:27); because of HIS Mighty presence abiding in us. Collapse isn’t permissible, while endurance/perseverance in HIM is a must; remembering – no predecessor has ever been exempt from great tribulations (*you cannot pray it all away – our Savior didn’t - John 15:20).

Profane usage of wording that inserts God - is shameful, but this passage of our theme more embodies the aforementioned (2 Ti.2:15).

 

Today’s Thought “Given A Pass?” G. Ward

1 John 3

⁶ No one who remains in Him sins continually; no one who sins continually has seen Him or knows Him.

 

Whereas to judge is said to be against God’s Law and while there’s a cynical delight in how some are minimally acquainted with a small fraction of HIS Word, inasmuch as that singular point in familiarity won’t read further to unfold the passages’ demand that before you judge – clean your slate of wrongdoing first, the sinfulness existent in true believers, allows a daily building (i.e., sanctification) from our Lord that weeds out a potential infestation of transgressions furthered; doing so through daily repentance is our Holy Mantra (cf. Luke 6:46).

If ever you desire to affirm your position in Christ, that assessment should not involve what other men say is suitable for your participation (particularly that to which may be habitual detachment unto righteousness), *but the only position Heaven recognizes for HIS creation; are they owned by the Magnificent Savior, desirous to not move unless granted permission(?). 

 

Today’s Thought “Trusting in Other Devices” G. Ward

Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.”

 

A believer’s exercise in bravery to share with a society of hopeful citizens’ desire to witness a peace and continuity inside the elements of political, cultural and ethnic clarity, even imposing a perceived moral consciousness with demand, more prepared to pounce on some (with vitriol) perceivably lacking compliance, WON’T UNDERSTAND THE WAY OF THE LORD (*at least not on their own - Ro.10:14, 1 Cor.2:14).

Let’s not discount what has been historically; that is a disconnect from man unto the Almighty, because of a blatant refusal to be absolutely owned by HE who created us (1 Cor.6:19-20), along with many temporal postures soon to pass away.

 

Today’s Thought “Love Connection” G. Ward

Matthew 6:10

Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.

 

Jesus would teach every disciple that the demand for HIS plans and purpose be the consumption for all believers, solely including that to which makes HIS Name great. Moreover, this prayer format, establishes principles of eternality as it begs for transformative thoughts in how HIS Heaven is not captive to cultural trends, speculations, opinions and selfish improprieties from its inhabitants; but delights in presence from their Redeemer, even that to which relies on HIM wholeheartedly.

May the portion given you on this - HIS day, desire to convey as HE reigns Supreme in Heaven, that all would regard HIS reign and rule of their lives here…

 

Today’s Thought “Equal Opportunity” G. Ward

Romans 10

¹⁶ However, they did not all heed the good news; for Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” ¹⁷ So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.

 

The gospel is the most peculiar message, even most unusual, along with distinctive from any religious order; because it compels every hearer unto absolute surrender to who’s become the Object of one’s faith and whereas the initial investigation of HIM unfolds a tremendous price (in greatest suffering, that produced death), although no sin was found in HIM, He’d die so as to become a substitution for anyone (including those plagued with heinous sins) – that any could be forgiven and be granted an eternity without painful implication of life’s journey in earth, along with presence without relent from their Compassionate Savior. Moreover, the believer’s prudent investigation discovers how mightily HIS love was/is for them; HE paid their penalty, HE freed them from guilt, HE loved them while they were entirely ridden in sinfulness and the one who’d tell them of this greatness (*Ro.10:14), needed the same Savior, in that same regard as the vilest of sinners would. O’ How I Love Jesus…

 

Today’s Thought “Spiritual Bankruptcy” G. Ward

Revelation 3:20

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

The context of this letter unfolds what was/has typically become – worshippers gathering, more delighting on terms of mercy and grace afforded any – despite their spiritual compliance, than absolute surrender to Christ leading their lives, even separating them from worldly ideologies, opinions, politics, etc., and demanding their holiness (*as they’d seek to mimic HIS life). Moreover, our Lord’s knock is indicative of an additional chance to eliminate the religion (i.e., external presentation of faith in HIM) and allow HIS transformation of their lives (i.e., personal relationship in/with Christ) and whereas HE ALONE discerns the heart’s sincerity (Jer.17:9-10), this address serves as a reminder of HIS insight.

If any will pursue HIM rightfully in this era, they too will unfold that it is written for our personal governance/guidance – to thwart the pain of hypocrisy’s end (when life is over and judgment is without reprieve). WARNING: We don’t want to play a similar game of inconsistent worship, even that to which subscribes to criticism(s) of existential temples that defends one’s lack in participation mandated by our Lord, even living lives in contradiction to HIS passages – with claims of “I know HIM too” – theorizing. OPEN THE DOOR OF HIS KNOCK-ON TODAY AND BE FREE!

 

Today’s Thought “Speeches Without Applause” G. Ward

Ephesians 3

⁸ To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, ⁹ and to enlighten all people as to what the plan of the mystery is which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things; 

 

Believers are called to a conveyance of words from the Most High entirely unpopular. Why? Because it calls for change and whereas what’s established in the mindsets of man stems from a practice (mostly unrecognized by our Lord’s highest written standard), spiritual acclimation (from some hearers) is put on the top shelf. Sadly, even when that same believer maintains his conviction, administering hope – beyond issues, where opinions and speculations reside, the believer is tagged judgmental, along with other castigations, rendering his kind as arrogant and while Christ sought to prepare disciples for such antagonism, we must persevere (cf. John 15:18-20); insisting all know what our Lord says reigns superior. *If everyone delights in your presence, perhaps you’ve compromised your designated position in Christ?

 

Today’s Thought “Masked, by Opinion” G. Ward

John 13

³⁵ By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”

 

Sanctification is something our Creator enables (*for believers) as HE makes them unique (i.e., separate) from the world’s standards and does so through discipleship and whereas many are exposed to these superior terms weekly/weakly, some acquiesce and others deny the change. Our world’s impression is upon all of us and the objectivity (particularly for believers) is to absolute suppress every ideology’s furtherance for their new lives, through embracing a new ownership that embodies love and whereas this “new command” our Lord issued, sought to utterly diminish an unending futility that depends on people and systems, believers are compelled to exhibit being owned by the Merciful Savior.

Believers, YOU HAVE A KING! Cease on today with every divisive regard, promoting unbelief. They, the world, will know us by our love…

 

Today’s Thought “Fact Check” G. Ward

Luke 6: ⁴ how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the consecrated bread, which is not lawful for anyone to eat except the priests alone, and gave it to his companions?” ⁵ And He was saying to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

 

Fear mongering isn’t limited to politics, but most assuredly includes the super-religious then and now. The Almighty imposed Law(s) on HIS people (Israel) to ensure His characterization as Holy would carry forth through Israel – so as to embody great distinction from other nations and whereas pompous religiously inaccurate leaders would criticize His disciples eating grain on the Sabbath, the Law never opposed such; it merely prohibited labor for profit – for the farmer and worker. Our Lord’s correction was astoundingly confrontational, as HE would proclaim HIMSELF as GOD INCARNATE (cf. John 1:1-3, 14).

Moreover, our Lord absolutely lived by the Almighty’s Law and did so perfectly; particularly in view of mere men insufficient to do so (Jas.2:8-*10). It’s now incumbent on you and me to not pervade on any how well we do at something only Christ did, but to assure others of HIM as the Sufficient ONE (Deut.6:4-7) for their deliverance…

 

Today’s Thought “Pinnacled in Disconcert” G. Ward

Luke 6

²⁷ “But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, ²⁸ bless those who curse you, pray for those who are abusive to you. 

 

Have you noted something as simple as a child’s birthday celebration having become a shared honorarium unto his/her own siblings via an encouragement onto adults (closest to the family) to bring gifts for all the children, so as to disallow jealousies? Perhaps you’re one that may be inclined to such, even suggesting it’s harmless? This era is responsible for an historical marginalization of simple realities once shared as common to endeavor as these were lessons onto young people to extend honor where needed, along with promoting selflessness and whereas some will perceive this cherry-picking as unnecessary, the transcendence of discounting simple measures can/does bleed into every area of life; even forgetting the timelessness of the Truth in absolute followship of God’s Word. Moreover, we’re witnesses – daily, of acceptable acts so pervasive that says, if any won’t agree with my positive attitude, even exercising opposition towards my every perspective, I’ll merely speak to them, but that’s my new extent (even if Christ mandated differently).

 Today’s Thought “Exposed” G. Ward

Psalm 25

16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
For I am lonely and afflicted.
17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
Bring me out of my distresses.

 

The perception of humiliation is generally that to which desires a hiding place from others. It permits a paranoia, suggestive in how everyone knows, while questioning how can I ever face those knowledgeable about my great indiscretion (cf. Ro.8:26) and whereas our thoughts of this - concerns itself with what others think, the humiliation from the psalmist involves a personal exposure to Holy God’s view (Matt.10:28). Peace is desired, but must sincerely desire no more transgressing of HIS moral code (HE won’t be mocked, through crafty endeavor in revealing portions of sinfulness.); the pain of it all, establishes points of perseverance in HIS Word (and won’t let go – longing for new mercies). When one determines godly sorrow as the conduit for perfect reconciliation in Christ, he’s convinced of an end to miseries furthered, forgiveness and restoration unfolds and our Lord’s unrelenting presence, becomes the satisfaction revisited upon my first confession of HIM as Savior. Christ lives in me today…

Because HE Lives, Gregory D. Ward Sr., Senior Pastor, Emmanuel Baptist Church

 

Today’s Thought “Security Please!” G. Ward

John 14:27 “Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful.”

 

The disciples would perhaps tire from hearing Christ speak of a departure. They had grown so close to HIM as He’d teach them how to correlate to a vicious world that’d seek to provide every follower great grief. Moreover, our Lord’s admonishing wouldn’t be limited to those disciples, but would include every disciple thereafter. The solace our Lord proposed would be an introduction of faith without visuals, but confidence of our Lord’s presence amidst trials (*John 15:20).

Perceivably, and while the agonizing crucifixion would witness our Lord asking why the Almighty seemingly forsook Him in this debilitating process never experienced, it’d more reveal human emotion of greatest pain as HE’D endure my sins and yours, even while sinless (altogether imposed on HIM by the Father – because of Love for you and me, 1 John 4:7-8). God Almighty remains holy and is distinctly unavailable to associate with the many sins of man, yet extended the Most Excellent Lifeline – Jesus (John 14:6) and if that won’t compel you to put away every act of immorality (revealed by HIS highest standard found in HIS Word) what will? 

 

Today’s Thought “It’s the Weekend Baby!” G. Ward

Proverbs 19

²¹ Many plans are in a person’s heart, but the advice of the Lord will stand.

While it’s not unreasonable to endeavor recreational activities of sorts, in view of a difficult week of employment and familial interactivity – believers’ plans should ask their Lord, what shall they render(?).

The Almighty is with a way indifferent from any (Isa.55:8-9) and we who’ve read HIS magnificent script witnessed numerous interruptions of the many plans of man enough so, that our supplications need to circumvent faith in HIS actualities (cf. Ro.8:28); never to forget we’re bought with a great price. Certainly, some will perceive this as a negative, but the Word of God says, “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written” (John 21:25). Perhaps our Lord was a fan of chariot racing? Yet, it’s proven He’d first convene with the Father (Mark 1:35). Fun is permissible. 

Today’s Thought “My Helpless Estate” G. Ward

Isaiah 66:1 This is what the Lord says: “Heaven is My throne and the earth is the footstool for My feet. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest?

Our land’s inhabitants are mostly consumed with externals of religion than devotion to our Lord – publicly and privately (cf. Amos 5:21-23). Those externals include religious individuals feeling as if they’re agents of HIS, particularly as they pervade on some their own righteousness, as one absolutely compliant with HIS commands and furthers their platform with a demand onto those perhaps not even familiar - with many spiritual demands, to get on board (*Ro.3:10).

Our Lord desires to live in the hearts of mankind; to guide their thoughts and actions. Moreover, the Almighty won’t ever need those HE appoints to commend themselves (Isa.6:5). Instead, those who believe are to reverence God for HIS continual presence among so many HE made, at the same time, beyond geographical boundaries; but let’s be clear, HE has no need of anything – because all is HIS (Ps.24:1). 

 

Today’s Thought “Eating Ice-cream, Yet Lactose Intolerant” G. Ward

Hebrews 4

¹³ And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him to whom we must answer.

 

Many count the costs in owning varied automobiles (i.e., monthly payment, insurance), even celebratory upon driving off from a dealership with the illustrious “new car smell” to never contemplate (in those moments) how this quiet, smooth ride can soon diminish unto an inconsistent sound, indicating maintenance needed for continued travels. We too, can be equated with vehicles of sorts; in that, we’re proud to be called HIS very own in the beginning of salvation granted us. Our exuberance truly identifies with HIS lovingkindness towards us and thereafter we move about in a brand-new fashion, to witness the many bumps on the road having worn our tires and chassis down to a horrid performance onto Mediocrity Boulevard and while we’re consumed with who’ll see us, the only eyes that matter, along with vision that sees through our superficial appearance is the Lord, who grants us the maintenance we’ll need (*Acts 3:19).

 

Today’s Thought “The KING Is Coming…” G. Ward

Matthew 4

¹⁷ From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

 

From the beginning of man, his Creator has enabled the conduit of Life as the greatest accompaniment. There’s yet a complacency throughout every generation of man, that ultimately translates rejection of any to absolutely rule over their lives. The spiritual compelling from John the Baptist’s message of the “kingdom at hand” was indicative of relinquishing custody of oneself (to this Great King), before it’s too late and whereas Jesus’ elaboration (in the same as His forerunner - *Mal.3:1) would occur, many would fail to accommodate its Messenger(s). The disregard from many however, never witnessed their relent; but these would understand mankind’s rebellion needed a Savior – despite our sinfulness (cf. Ro.5:6-8), and before receiving HIM, ours must seek HIS forgiveness of the numerous times of foolish neglect to adhere to the price HE paid on our behalf – through concession that submits, “I need Thee, every hour!”

 

Today’s Thought “New and Improved; Campaigns of Salesmanship” G. Ward

Psalm 37

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it. ⁶ He will bring out your righteousness as the light, and your judgment as the noonday.

 

The term G.O.A.T., portrays Greatest of All-Time and is commonly used as a sport’s euphemism to highlight what appears unbreakable, regarding a record keeping for every era and whereas history is marginalized (i.e., forgetting greats of times past), particularly those inhabitants of old who thought their era possessed “greats” of sorts, theirs more than likely were more in tune onto a fine line posturing that maintained people come, then go (so, don’t become too attached).

Vain philosophers (for our era) are unfortunately those pervading great thoughts (entirely inventive) unto captive audiences who awaken to what could become their holy mantra for existing and whereas that theorizing nullifies the Only One who gives HIS creation – “purpose,” all others, including their temporal devices will soon depart (vs. 10).

 

Today’s Thought “Back-up Generator?” G. Ward

John 17

¹⁶ They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 

 

Our Lord demonstrated spiritual fortitude beyond any in history. While many men stood, understanding their eminent death (whether by duty to land, persecution, etc.) and viewed as stalwart in character, none would die for the vilest of opposers absolutely hating them. Every disciple, particularly after our Savior gave HIS life, would be compelled similarly; to live in expectation of a similar plight ahead (Matt. 16:24) and then to advocate for another (indiscriminately – Matt.28:19), through sharing all HE offered on their behalf. Moreover, and while the term “world” would mostly represent an antithetical view of safety (i.e., peace found through Christ – while great troubles are all around) – believers were never taught to look to systems, or people for reprieve from trials. Instead, the “Author and Finisher” of their faith rose from death and continues as a “present help” in time of need (Ps.46:1).

 

Today’s Thought “Macho Man” G. Ward

Psalm 119:114

“You are my hiding place and my shield; I wait for Your word.”

Psalm 119 was apparently relative to duress found in one. We all experience great pressure in life’s journey and whereas we’ve been horribly reactionary (that can further anxieties), we’d all do well to best contemplation in how to avoid such pressures from re-occurring. The believer’s resolve involves absolute surrender unto their Lord (*John 14:27). My hope however, is that they’d employ the simplicity of Truth onto more concern for others’ potential distress (Phil 2:2-4), via a concise presentation that insists, our Lord desires a love relationship with them also. Ultimately, our dutiful, practiced response towards our Savior’s demand will witness a spiritual fortitude for each of us to stand amidst great trials (Jas.1:2-4), versus an unholy concession – potentially deadly.