Today’s Thought “For HIS Glory, or Mine Own?” G. Ward

Acts 22

¹⁷ “It happened when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I fell into a trance, ¹⁸ and I saw Him saying to me, ‘Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about Me.’ ¹⁹ And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves understand that in one synagogue after another I used to imprison and beat those who believed in You.

 

Many of us deemed “old school” find new parenting laughable because we know the invaluable effort from our parents sought preparing us for an apathetic society where there’s foolish promotion of self-preservation over selflessness. Moreover, in some families, we now witness several varieties on dinner plates, so as to accommodate toddlers to teens, along with witnessing skillful negotiating from the same, who relegate chores as their parent’s responsibility.

Our biblical theme witnesses Paul’s post-conversion experience, to then be specifically assigned by his Redeemer (our All-Knowing Lord). Paul argues a usefulness in Jerusalem, because he once embodied a zealousness similar to those opposers, along with having been devout a Jew (beforehand), as if to say, “Lord perhaps YOU didn’t know that about me, so I thought to inform YOU.” Can you say, “sometimes zeal can be pompous?”

“To Be Happy in Jesus, Is to Trust and Obey…”

 

Today’s Thought “True Devotion” G. Ward

Psalm 119:93

I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have revived me.

 

Grief stricken is the embodiment of man when exposed to having loved someone greatly to then witness their departure and whereas it remains overwhelming for a significant period, continued pain lessens, to become periodic bouts with sadness.

Faith however, won’t be victimized similarly, because it either can’t be dissuaded onto denying the objective of their meditative demand to believe (implicitly) in One who lives as the sufficient and needed Model, or, one can possess an ever-evolving kind of faith, unto a predominant prerogative; even searching posthumously for an example to follow and whereas that’s subjectively to be replaced by a newer, improved prototype, that pursuit can lead to great grief. Moreover, faith can also objectively be an achievable directive (found in systems – cf. John 15:5); but that too is with a temporal, potential disenchantment.

Altogether, and as followers of Christ, we know our Redeemer lives and therefore exist to fulfill HIS written script, so as to apply it to our desperately wicked hearts (Jer.17:9-10); with great supplications of “Change our Hearts, O God…”

 

Today’s Thought “Great Listening Skills” G. Ward

John 14:1

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.”

 

The 12 chosen by Christ – who’d initialize the spread of the good news of redemption (of sins)  by this Jesus, would be overwhelmed in grief as our Lord would share HIS soon departure (13:1) and whereas our Savior would instruct them from the beginning – to take nothing for such a journey (Luke 9:3), even leaving them further perplexed at what this meant and whereas HIS desire was to first model an exemplary dependence on the Father, HE’D teach them accordingly.

The journey would begin with thunder as they’d marvel in this Exemplar Leader’s majestic, yet humble authority, relying on HIM so profoundly, while looking to HIM for righteousness, that taught them how to correlate in a world so oppositional to HIS holiness and whereas this follow-ship happened for what appeared to be a lifetime (but only three years), listening to HIM was marginalized by their desire to have HIM as more than enough – forever.

We’ve written that you may know HE’S still alive (*Ro.10:13) …

 

Today’s Thought “Death, In Three’s; NO…” G. Ward

Hebrews 10:22

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

 

Whereas death in great numbers have always prevailed among every generation of man, our lives were given to more encapsulate duty unto our Creator; but how can this be conveyed amidst all the lush gardens of such a land flowing with milk and honey? Our view in this land blinds our spiritual response that can be fully devoted to the Almighty (*Ro.7:14-25); because we attribute these things perceived to be worthy of our pursuit as blessings, to forget that quite a portion of the world lies in a dismal, unproductive land, craving clean drinking water – making death even more normalized and we have modern medical technology that helps to extend our years - so readily available. So, how can we draw near if we’ve become resistant to viewing death as an inevitable occurrence inescapable, to then insist everyone, with the exception of a vile, hateful criminal goes to Heaven? V.25 (from our theme) answers – “Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching” (The Message Bible).

Father God, how grateful we are that You sent Jesus, to prepare a home for us with You and whereas it’s not automatic and whereas none of us are deserving and whereas our Lord Jesus qualifies us as we’re obedient to HIM as our Leader in everything and seek to absolutely comply with all HIS commands, we ask that any observing this thought surrender to You through HIM (Jesus), who provides our escape through repentance, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Activity: Faith’s Demand” G. Ward

Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my Shepherd, I will not be in need. ² He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. ³ He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.

 

To recite such won’t indicate the kind of reliance mandated, but to perceive from the historical agriculturalists’ impact, particularly since farming was common to all and whereas most would understand a shepherd’s role was uniquely captivating, in that the sheep knew his voice among many voices, refusing commands until he’d call and follow implicitly (John 10:2-6). We’re called to such a reliance, although myriads of voices seek to instruct (cf. Matt.6:8). The foundational message of the psalmists’ declaration portrays a definitive “I shall not be moved” from the Great Shepherd’s rule.

 

Today’s Thought “Hope Onto a Younger Generation…” G. Ward

2 Timothy 1

 ⁵ For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelled in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well. 

Whereas much of our view as children witnessed what appeared to be very elderly relatives committed to the Lord’s Way, some of us have now exceeded the age to which they were then and my concern is whether we’re living up to that standard modeled for us, or are we indistinguishable from those clearly pursuant to selfish desire? Moreover, what will those much younger aspire towards if we’re no different than they are (?), and while we’re grateful for those so exemplary, even those having departed this earth unto an eternity with Holy God, we’ll never know how their incessant prayers, lent our spiritual foundation in/for HIS today.

 

Today’s Thought “Mourning and Repentance” G. Ward

2 Samuel 3

³¹ Then David said to Joab and to all the people who were with him, “Tear your clothes and put on sackcloth, and mourn before Abner.” And King David walked behind the bier.

 

One of David’s mighty men (Joab) would exercise in a partial loyalty to this proposed King David, while significantly desirous to avenge his brother’s death (given in battle by Abner – King Saul’s great soldier, who’d soon understand that David was truly anointed King and would defect Saul’s camp). Abner’s consultation with King David desired to be a catalyst in bringing the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel into one, which certainly found agreement with King David (vv.20-23). Abner would soon thereafter suffer a violent death (at the hand of Joab) and King David would insist all would know he was innocent (and Joab guilty), calling for a day of mourning with an unwavering consideration of the Lord’s Way.

When troubles or demise occurs with any, we, of this dispensational era in the Spirit realm, owe our Lord a solemn reflection of HIS mercy provided and thereafter, must teach others how to correlate to each day given to enable HIS peace while in this strange land, assured of a “dwelling place” eternally long (Ro.12:15, Ps.90:12, John 14:1-3).

 

Today’s Thought “Held Hostage by Pirates of Self-Righteousness” G. Ward

1 Peter 3

⁸ To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble; ⁹ not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you would inherit a blessing.

 

To be “thin-skinned” (in the Spirit realm), is to allow foolish things’ penetration of other’s evaluation that’s entirely insignificant (done or said), without considering what our Lord endured (John 15:20). As we contemplate HIS resilience and perseverance, it cannot be solely a view in admiration of stalwart character in HIM, but a dutiful replication (in how HE correlated similarly) that impacts others (Matt.5:16). Moreover, even if another is insulted in our presence and our advocacy is required, it’s not with vitriolic tone, furthering contention and divide, but is prepared with encouragement to those victimized and prayer for the perpetrator of foolishness; after all, aren’t we peacemakers?

 

Today’s Thought “The Largest Cemetery” G. Ward

Numbers 19

1 Then the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, ² “This is the statute of the law which the Lord has commanded, saying, ‘Speak to the sons of Israel that they bring you an unblemished red heifer in which there is no defect and on which a yoke has never been mounted. ³ And you shall give it to Eleazar the priest, and it shall be brought outside the camp and be slaughtered in his presence. 

 

The concept of ritual impurity or uncleanness in religious contexts that makes one unqualified to participate in certain religious practices or enter sacred spaces is something unfamiliar for this spiritual era, but was the demand for Israel. Their wilderness experience involved over 1.2 million cadavers (from their own countrymen) lying all around (as these were judged by God and condemned accordingly) and whereas there were laws governing being around those things deemed “unclean” and because this actuality was unavoidable, the Almighty offered HIS standard of purification rites.

The demand for believers now, although considerably different (i.e., without slaughter of animals) – is with a great charge unto sanctification (a state of separation unto God, so as to be useful, for HIS purpose) and this separation involves a no conceding to the world’s standards, but full devotion to HIS commands (*1 John 2:15-17).

 

Today’s Thought “Truth is Searchable” G. Ward

Judges 2

² And as for you, you shall not make a covenant with the inhabitants of this land; you shall tear down their altars.’ But you have not obeyed Me; what is this thing that you have done? ³ Therefore I also said, ‘I will not drive them out from you; but they will become like thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a snare to you.

 

Immorality continues because of humanity’s insistence to govern themselves (*Ro.1:18-22); particularly when one reaches “adulthood” – refusing to be told what to do and whereas there’s willingness and permissiveness in vocalizing such familiarity with knowing God, our Creator - HIS demands remain non-negotiable unto those lesser (Luke 6:46).

Israel, from slavery to wilderness, would travail through desert regions onto a Promised Land, offering great doubt and murmuring along the way and whereas it became time for their children to inhabit this new land and voices raised to confirm their dependence, even convinced of the Almighty’s plan, the term – “familiarity breeds contempt” would experience its unfortunate inauguration. Thereafter, would witness selfish desire over obedience become their unholy mantra, as they’d refuse to drive the original inhabitants out, along with consultation of their gods and trouble in the East was promised (v.3), along with testifying to why there’s present day war in Israel. God’s Word is true.

 

Today’s Thought “A Forecast of Reign” G. Ward

Daniel 7:9

“I kept looking Until thrones were set up, And the Ancient of Days took His seat; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head like pure wool. His throne was ablaze with flames, its wheels were a burning fire.

 

Daniel, at chapter 7 shares a dream given and it involves the future (far beyond his own era), whereby Christ’s return will witness HIM as King, serving as Sole Governance for the Universe HE made (John 1:1-3). Daniel’s elaboration embodies a threatening notion of the insufficiency of prior empires that sought invincibility, even that to which forecasted doom for a post Roman Empire. Moreover, Daniel’s description for Christ as the “Ancient of Days” was esoteric to the title for God and HIS return will witness HIM as Judge in all of HIS glory and whereas kings who desired glory, failed, Christ the King will not.

*We’ve been given a kingdom of sorts and our responsibility towards furthering the gospel is a charge to keep in our hearts and dispense to others and if we persist to violate that chief command (Matt.28:19), we’re as the kings of the empires for Daniel’s dream – facing annihilation. *Instead, let Jesus lead you…

 

Today’s Thought “Ebb and Flow: An Un-Spiritual Phenomenon” G. Ward

James 3

⁶ And the tongue is a fire, the very world of unrighteousness; the tongue is set among our body’s parts as that which defiles the whole body and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.

 

Followers of Christ have everything they need in the manuscript HE authored for our guidance (cf. Ps.23:1) and whereas there exists a dual component of our beings (flesh v. spirit), perfect submission to the Spirit realm, enables great delight upon our compliance.

The inconsistency however, from our words, have perhaps been instrumental in violating others’ conscious – even doubting that anything good can exist in/through the church (particularly when/if they know of your affiliation). What are you allowing to be said and seen on social media, or in the marketplace? Do any know of your political views, or efforts in social reform, ALONGSIDE your Savior (Who insisted on political and social reformational detachment and called every follower to pervade eternal matters over temporary, governmental issues)?

For the believer: What shall our mouths declare? If that’s answerable pragmatically, perhaps your confession is also idealism (?).

 

Today’s Thought “Thoughtful Salutations” G. Ward

Philippians 1:1b-2

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons:  Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

I’m somewhat troubled by such pervasiveness of religious acts for our era because most is ideological (i.e., from the basis of a social, political, or economic theorizing) and whereas Truth’s (John 14:6) contingency is always pertinent to an eternal demand, reaching beyond earthen unrest of sorts, hope (i.e., looking forward to promises ahead), transcends miseries presented, affording my response unto others to be entirely encouraging. Therefore, my words should exemplify that to which I’ve been blessed with; particularly as I contemplate, How Great Is Our God!

 

Today’s Thought “Carried Away by Error” G. Ward

Matthew 23

⁵ And they do all their deeds to be noticed by other people; for they broaden their phylacteries and lengthen the tassels of their garments. ⁶ And they love the place of honor at banquets, and the seats of honor in the synagogues, ⁷ and personal greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by the people.

 

Jesus’ warning to HIS disciples concerning these super religious leaders was unabashed; particularly in their insistence to be recognized alongside the Almighty and whereas we know it’s said, “You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God” (Ex.20:4-5), religious leadership in some, have exacerbated this ongoing tragedy. Jesus came to serve and not be served, but many are still enamored with titles and gaudy presentation. Moreover, it’s sad to witness the Savior of the world in great crowds being touched by many, interacting with the despised and washing feet, to see such regression with some. Don’t be complicit in supporting the antithesis of God’s demand; humbled leaders still exist to make Christ known.

 

Today’s Thought “Few and Far Between” G. Ward

Hosea 4:1

Listen to the word of the Lord, you sons of Israel,
Because the Lord has a case against the inhabitants of the land,
For there is no faithfulness, nor loyalty,
Nor knowledge of God in the land.

 

Have things gotten better? Is indictment from our Lord against those HE loved then, caused HIM to mature whereas HE is regretful in HIS assessment of their rebellion? Has Jesus become our scapegoat, even believing that this dispensational era has us absolutely guiltless; particularly in view of such contemptuous devotion to who we say is our Lord?

Can your grandchildren recite that which is deemed “The Lord’s Prayer” while without hesitance hold their hand to their heart declaring the “Pledge of Allegiance?” I’m jus sayin…

 

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

Hebrews 13:5

Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you,” so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?”

 

While this appears to solely embrace the idea of longing for money, enough so that it overwhelms my conscious, the expression, “the love of money” more indicates covetousness (the excessive or inordinate desire for something). Our consciences carry both good and bad elements of those deposits all around and whereas those who exist to love our Lord with all their heart seek to bless the Lord at all times, we welcome a best input (spiritually and through HIS Word) that compels our change towards an unwavering mindset emblematic of Christ righteousness. May your day say so.

 

Today’s Thought “Is There a Doctor in the House?” G. Ward

Jeremiah 17:9-10

“The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; Who can understand it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, to give to each person according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds.”

 

While seemingly harsh to contemplate how mankind’s heart is naturally incurable and whereas Holy God is our Maker, we cannot be HIS workmanship to then determine a life plan seemingly prudent to follow, but are given presence in earth to be governed by HIM and if/when any are resistant to that original order, it’s comparable to barbarism (i.e., uncivilized).

Any who purport being barbaric needs taming and whereas Holy God desires to train any via spiritually transforming a rebellious heart, HE remains the only Qualified Physician for such a surgical procedure.

 

Today’s Thought “Fourth of July Planning” G. Ward

Romans 12:3

For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.

 

When any will earnestly pursue God’s Word, particularly HIS enablement for their existence, along with existing in such temporal conditions and land that permits contemplations regarding their own eternity - either with the King of eternal peace, or an eternal doom, those meditations will certainly outweigh  impetuous motioning the populous exemplifies, that never slows down enough to think, “if the Almighty won’t grant me a next breath, what can I do” (*John 15:5)?

 

Today’s Thought “Even the Doctor Needs a Check-Up” G. Ward

Hebrews 5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of people in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; ² he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is clothed in weakness.

 

Whereas we as followers of Christ, have been given the priesthood in believer-ship and are compelled to instruct those who may be morally deficient, or plagued with false teaching, ours cannot exhibit a short-fused attitude, even rude, to act as if we’ve not disappointed/misappropriated the practicality of Truth found in God’s Word, along with periodic thoughts unbecoming to how Jesus walked in earth (1 John 2:6). Instead, our meditations before and while encountering those potential converts - must be witnesses of the price Christ paid for their sins, ensuring we keep a lifeline available to throw one who never thought our Lord desired a love relationship with them as HE gave us. Yes, Lord Yes…