Today’s Thought “Heart Surgery Required” G. Ward

Luke 6

³¹ Treat people the same way you want them to treat you. 

Our Lord would teach mankind how to interact with one another, very considerate of the condition all men are plagued with; that being - sin sickness and while many seek to portray themself as having conquered an inborn deceitfulness, none are/have been successful; APART from absolute surrender to their Maker’s change (cf. Jer.17:9-10). Moreover, our Lord understands HIS creation, along with their propensity towards selfishness, even regarding us as innately evil (Matt.7:11). The plan of escape however, requires our acknowledgment of this actuality unto HIS sufficiency (*Acts 3:19); for HE is able to bear all our transgressions.

Therefore, a believer’s daily plea is, change my heart, Holy God…

 

Today’s Thought “Dishonorable, or Reconciled?” G. Ward

Romans 3

²³ For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, ²⁴ being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.

God created humanity in His likeness to reflect His glory; which means we’ve been made by HIM - so as to resemble HIS character and sin most certainly cannot be named in HIM. Therefore, our devotion in follow-ship is the landmark and Christ is the Chieftain (cf. 1 John 3:9). HE alone brought us near to Holy God; knowing our sinfulness as beyond social measurements including gender, race and economic status; but that to which unfolds our hearts as “desperately sick” (*Jer.17:9-10) – and thereafter, HE'D impart HIS own righteousness to any who’d confess their sins and be led by HIM (in everything). The reconciliation offered by/through Christ is not an automatic connectivity, but a pursuit to live as HE did, by allowing HIS Word (*John 1:1-3) to be loved more than anything.

 

Today’s Thought “Humility: A Holy Mantra” G. Ward

Isaiah 64:6

For all of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment; and all of us wither like a leaf, and our wrongdoings, like the wind, take us away.

Mankind’s captivation with Holy God remains mostly synonymous with a mythical genie’s availability; because many want from HIM, solely on their terms and whereas Israel needed the Almighty’s favorable performance as had been for their predecessors, their plea insisted HE’D do it for them.

The response from the Prophet Isaiah clarifies that every generation of man is/will be – more self-serving and irreverent of the Holy One and would include his own unworthiness to gain presence unto the LORD (Isa.6:5).

Believers, in this era, celebrate being HIS temple (1 Cor.6:19-20), amazed that HE exists in us and whereas we still feel so unworthy, we’re grateful that HE ascribed HIS own righteousness in us, so our renderings would be pleasing in HIS sight.

 

Today’s Thought “Re-Routing onto Spiritual Boulevard” G. Ward

Philippians 1

²⁹ For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer on His behalf, ³⁰ experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Historically, believers were opposed by factions insistent on pervading their gods as sufficient for any - through persuasive measures, but the Christians couldn’t be convinced although these false purveyors of religious jargon were more popular. Therefore, those days witnessed great persecution against believers.

The many gods of this era are with perpetrators’ permeation more relative to theorizing efforts that DEMAND we, as believers, not merely tolerate their ideologies, but receive their ever-evolving tactics through an unsanctioned blending of values, and if we won’t – troubles will ensue. Instead, we know our LORD convinces (*Ps.119:42) those HE chose before making the world and to that end – we shall not be moved; even if it costs us severely so (Matt.16:24).

 

Today’s Thought “Lighthouse, Adorned Magnificently” G. Ward

Colossians 3

¹² So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; 

Whenever I’m in a public place, I’ve practiced an outward expression that won’t ever compete with divisiveness and angst found in others; even that to which pardons unbecoming behaviors from the same (both intentional and unintentional). I’ve understood this as a dutiful response to what’s been commanded, yet, spiritual commitment to our Lord’s Word now witnesses greater acquiescing because of a heart transplant provided me (*cf. Eph.6:12).

My encouragement on today is that you’d all keep believing, while remaining hopeful; for many others are on their way (as such were some of us); awaiting our example and presentation of One prepared for their redemption also (Matt.11:28-30).

 

Today’s Thought “When I Grow Up…” G. Ward

Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the gracious gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

No person can earn eternal life (Isa.64:6-7, Eph.2:8-9); it is granted through repentance of sins (*1 John 1:8) and unfolds one’s desire to live in accordance to Holy God’s Word; identifying Christ as the Only righteous One and then asking HIM to impart HIS sole righteousness unto one so undeserving (because none is found in any apart from HIS – Ro.3:10).

Some presume this death (spoken of at Ro.6:23) is with a common implication given mankind; but this death is indicative of any who fails to place their trust in the All-Wise Savior (to lead them in every way), to inevitably be eternally separated from HIM. Believers, on the other hand, understand that a soon departure from the earth is eternal presence with HIM (not because we were ever good enough, yet, we’re fully surrendered to HIM who is good). Sadly, those living vicariously through other’s example in what it means to be successful, need a witness for their rescue and very few are willing (*Ro.10:14) – while insisting everyone perceive they know HIM (Matt.7:21-23).

 

Today’s Thought “Smiling Faces…” G. Ward

Proverbs 21

² Every person’s way is right in his own eyes, but the Lord examines the hearts. ³ To do righteousness and justice
Is preferred by the Lord more than sacrifice.

 

As a boy, I was deemed good by many adults and because this tag perceived, maintained consistency (only in the presence of adults), it wasn’t a difficult practice (*1 Cor.13:11). My siblings and others (i.e., peers) knew of many shortcomings in me, yet theirs many times, were equally calculating, disabling greater castigation.

Altogether, who we’ve been is a disqualified contrast for today (cf. Ps.118:24). Our redemption has been provided and now our character is determined by our Creator as seen and unseen behavior and whereas HE alone knows our heart/conscience, the day presented, demands we put more of HIS Word inside so as to be transformed onto best spiritual practices; only considerate of making HIS Name great.

 

Today’s Thought “Has Our Lord Changed Your Name?” G. Ward

! Peter 2

⁴ And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by people, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, ⁵ you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Peter’s reference in this “Stone” analogy emanates from our Lord’s designation for him to more understand the magnitude of responsibility he’d be up against (*Matt.10:16-22) to proclaim Christ as “All in All” (i.e., Deliverer – Isa.53:4-5). Our Lord’s designation wasn’t limited, but would include HIS church (Matt.16:18), particularly since Peter’s name was Simon (or Cephas) beforehand and whereas Peter invites every believer to know that dispelling Truth (*John 14:6) remains the only foundational message granting forgiveness and perfect guidance, onto eternal life with one’s Savior – share without trepidation, generously and intentionally.

Obedience remains the calling to fulfill for believers and there is no substitute worthy to present (cf. Col.1:28).

 

Today’s Thought “Denying, While A Recipient?” G. Ward

Matthew 5

 ⁴⁷ And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Even the Gentiles, do they not do the same?

 

Our Lord’s instruction hinges on the central tenet of love; it’s the room without walls and should be made available to any; particularly for the believer, for “we know whom we’ve believed, and we’re convinced that He is able to protect what we’ve entrusted to Him until that day” (2 Ti.2:12b), and whereas this reasonable reciprocity involves full understanding in what HIS love for me involved (*1 Pe.3:18), I’m compelled unto some appearing peaceable, along with many portraying unrest (Matt.5:16). Therefore, I awaken to an intentional and dutiful mimic of my Lord. Will you join me? 

 

Today’s Thought “With a Key to the Handcuff” G. Ward

Romans 15:13

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

This verse speaks of the Blessed Redeemer and whereas HIS redemption was first meant to satisfy indiscretions for HIS own (Ro.10:1-4), earth’s inhabitants (outside Judaism – cf. Isa.49:6) were granted access (Ro.11:1-*11) and all would be compelled to praise HIS Holy Name.

Our meditations in how rich we are in grace and mercy will/can contain us, thwarting the pain of worldly consideration, entirely insignificant and ever-evolving and whereas our Lord’s generosity yet prevails, having allowed for murderous kings and vicious Pharisees’ spiritual change, demanding we know one aforementioned was listed as a man after God’s heart (Ac.13:22) and another instrumental in authoring two-thirds of the oracle of Holy God, may we proclaim HIS Sufficiency unto any while we have breath.

 

Today’s Thought “Tangled in a Spiritual Web” G. Ward

Psalm 119

⁵ Oh that my ways may be established to keep Your statutes! ⁶ Then I will not be ashamed when I look at all Your commandments.

 

Proclamations of knowing Christ is with highest demand, because Holy God won’t condescend to a lesser standard and while there could be immediate echoes that question how imperfect souls could ever consistently produce inerrancy, introduces HIS grace (i.e., unmerited favor). We’ve been overwhelmingly blessed with a Perfect Sacrifice (Christ). HE stood where no man could (Ro.5:7-8), offering Himself unto shortcomings of sorts in us. Identifying this reality is mostly understood as belief necessary to be called HIS very own, but Truth investigated, unfolds obedience thereunto - as an inseparable accompaniment (Luke 6:46-49, Jas.1:21-22).

 

Today’s Thought “I’ve Got a Secret” G. Ward

1 Peter 5:7

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

From a worldly perspective, humility is sadly equated with being weak, because it considers being owned by who/what may be stronger in moments and *whereas being humble is a desired character trait for believers in view of trust for/in their Savior; knowing that HE walked the earth (*as God in the flesh – John 1:1-3,14), humbly regarding others before Himself, we’re so thankful for HIS example and continued availability unto us. Moreover, HIS recompense remains available to any (Ro.10:13).

Any who appear self-sufficient, with appearances in being able to stop a moving locomotive, are yet dependent on the air HE provides and whereas believers are called to make themselves available to teaching this phenomenal message of HIM as Sustainer to others – perhaps their motioning will soon embody a confidence in ONE to carry them (Heb.4:16).

 

Today’s Thought “Stubborn Faith” G. Ward

Hebrews 10

²² Let’s approach God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 

Our approach unto Holy God is paramount; it invites us to a throne that’s always existed, recognizing there’s Only One who sits in its chair. In Him – all wisdom exists, because HE alone is the Maker of Heaven and earth, having made HIS proposed highest creation – mankind, stewards, of HIS earth. Unlike many devices given for our era, the life given us comes with a manual and when one fails at an ongoing, diligent consultation with that script, even allowing a natural disposition’s guessing game opportunity, thereafter, whatever is devised will fail. Our Maker never instituted great vision of the world’s circumstances and people for us, but kept us limited, so our endeavors wouldn’t embody regard for hopelessness in others, while compelling our praise of HIM for such a healthy distribution of mercy (particularly in view of the many failings of man – that calls for a periodic washing where restoration exists, when sincerity is presented unto HIS Holiness becomes our daily mantra – Acts 3:19).

 

Today’s Thought “Favorite Command?” G. Ward

Matthew 22

 ³⁷ And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ ³⁸ This is the great and foremost commandment. ³⁹ The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ⁴⁰ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets.”

Our Lord’s precedent makes a demand indifferent from our natural capabilities (*cf. Ro.7:14-20), requiring our concession to the Holy Spirit. Our Lord would know upon creating us (John 1:2-3) of a struggle ahead involving a continuous war of flesh v. Spirit. Moreover, HE modeled love, for that’s who HE is (1 John 4:7-8); compelling us to love our opposers and persecutors, the way HE loved HIS own and whereas faith is difficult, because of the pain indecision and disobedience presents (sometimes even blatant disregard), we can/will maintain a “mustard seed” trust of the Savior, while a noteworthy confidence in HIM is established (greatly), as we devote ourselves to a daily practice of investigating how to love as HE does/did (Matt.5:43-45).

 

Today’s Thought “The Biggest Fall Harder” G. Ward

Isaiah 49: ⁶ He says, “It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant To raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the protected ones of Israel; I will also make You a light of the nations So that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

Great beauty exists in prophetic proportions from Holy God, that insists we acknowledge HIS faithfulness and while troubles plagued HIS chosen (Israel), HE’D assure them in why HIS demand in rigid rule existed then - as they’d view such unrest from the world’s inhabitants. Moreover, this prophecy while concentrative of a future hope for Israel being used to witness to Messiah’s lordship (in the Tribulation Period - Rev. 7:1–10; 14:1–5), it would also include us as “lights” in a dark world (indicative of being witnesses for our era - *Matt.5:16).

Altogether, this won’t rely on anything we can bring to such a magnificent table (*Isa.64:6). We can’t be good enough (Ro.3:10); yet, just insistent that any understand the ONLY Good ONE, is softly and tenderly, calling for you and for me (Matt.11:28-30) …

 

Today’s Thought “Intercessory” G. Ward

Colossians 1: ³ We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, ⁴ since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; ⁵ because of the hope reserved for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel ⁶ which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth;

Societal pressure (whereby dis-unity exists), can include a wrongful presentation from believers that violates their being owned by Holy God and if practiced very regularly can more testify to unbelief than absolute surrender to the All-Wise ONE. The state of the church then and now, needs the encouragement provided by the Apostle’s letter (from our theme). Perseverance unto our Lord’s demand was/is challenging; until one decides (over and over again), WHO granted them forgiveness and life eternal is exceedingly more than circumstances presented in this strange land.

 

Today’s Thought “Drowning in the Sea of Presumption” G. Ward

 2 Chronicles 36:15-16 And the LORD God of their fathers sent warnings to them by His messengers, rising up early and sending them, because He had compassion on His people and on His dwelling place. But they mocked the messengers of God, despised His words, and scoffed at His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against His people, till there was no remedy.

 In the year 2020, 65% of Americans identified themselves as Christians and whereas what any echo - lacks actuality until activity follows lip service, there’s need for great concern from those purveyors insisting they know HIM and true believers have the message that truly reconciles; particularly in view of cultural pervasiveness of what it takes to know HIM (*cf. Luke 6:46). Ours must cease in criticisms and acknowledge a dutiful response. Moreover, there’s plenty of lifeline remaining, that sets the record straight, as to Who rescued them (Ro.5:8). If no intentional persistence is found in believers (that seeks to rescue the perishing), it more proves their being part of the faction needing the lifeline aforementioned.

 

Today’s Thought “My Ambassador-ship” G. Ward

Romans 16:1-2

I recommend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea, ² that you receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and that you help her in whatever matter she may have need of you; for she herself has also been a helper of many, and of myself as well.

 

Phoebe would be a widow and directly responsible to hand deliver this letter by this Apostle. Her great, spiritual character prefaced this delivery and although many knew of her humility, it would be an unusual task afforded a woman.

*While any can be drawn to HIS majesty (John 6:44) and useful for HIS glory, assignments by HIM won’t bend to cultural relativities, but merely provide demands from an unchanging, Holy God, ensuring HIS will be done. Are you preparing accordingly?

 

Today’s Thought “Known by the Holy One” G. Ward

Hebrews 7

¹¹ So if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron?

The term “Sufficient” in believer-ship, is attributable to Christ and whereas every believer (i.e., one who places their trust in HIM), seeks each day to live holy, we know HIS perfect sacrifice as the culminating factor in being forgiven and whereas God’s own, in times past relied on a system involving priests as administrators of sacrificial acts on behalf of many desiring to be recognized in the heavenlies and because generations of those same priests were dutifully available, it would represent a temporary reconciliation. This era however, calls attention to an elimination of another way to spiritual reconciliation, insisting all would know Jesus Christ as the Only Way (*John 14:6) and whereas “few” (Matt.7:13-14) will confirm HIS effort in their living each day, it’s not determined on what you did, but on whether or not you’ve been chosen (*John 6:44). My prayer is for this recognition as expedient (cf. Acts 3:19-20).