Today’s Thought “Walking and Talking Zombies” G. Ward

1 John 5:12

He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have that life.

 

Believing in Jesus realizes HE is All-Wisdom and desiring HIS forgiveness for oversight in thinking I could rightly govern myself; after all, HE gave me a brain syndrome and although that epithet holds true, it’s contained in great limitation. Therefore, it’s incumbent on my limited ability to know what’s best for me; particularly since mankind is more taught by a hit and miss presumptive practice appearing to know, but is with comparability in playing roulette, to then lose considerably over and over again. Instead, to know HIM, trusts in His sacrifice, and welcomes Him into your heart, desiring to sin no more. If I come as I’ve been, there must be expectation in how He’ll change me and that change will come incrementally, when I investigate that Sacrifice made for me, despite my ongoing feud with flesh.

 

And Lord God, I’m so entirely thankful for this reflection point offered, knowing it’s not merely a great idea, but a lifestyle of depending on the Perfect One, who absolutely knows what’s best and whereas HE’S my Hero, my meditations rejoice for having HIM on my side. I know more than ever before, HE won’t leave me, creating in me a rightful spirit to remain in HIM. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “No Need to Explain” G. Ward

 

Proverbs 10:19 “When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, but he who holds back his lips has insight.”

 

It’s said “the squeaky wheel gets the grease,” meaning, people who complain the loudest or make the most noise are the ones who get attention, help, or what they want, while quiet people get ignored and whereas believers seek to follow Christ’s example, who embodied ensuring HIS words would draw attention to the Father’s regard, even modeling prayer early each morning, lending endurance to the many trials ahead (Mark 1:35) and thereafter compelling every learner to know we’re not made higher than HE (John 15:20), it’s become our charge towards a rightful perseverance through/in HIS example; avoiding every opportunity towards being defensive, even expectant to critical behaviors from others, prepared to pardon their indiscretions as HE did ours; remembering, HE told us, our war is not with others as we suppose (Eph.6:12).

We won’t convince others of this peaceable surrender by our many words, perceived so eloquent, but our love demonstrated may certainly persuade them to know HE desires their repentance also (Matt.5:16, John 13:34-35).

 

Father God, from the beginning You knew of our fragility, proposing Perfect guidance and whereas every generation of man sought relying on their insufficiency and landing in all sorts of troubles, You sent our Perfect Example- Jesus. Our desire is to never rebel against this Savior; by unfolding, daily so, along with praying HIS Spirit of endurance, the words of eternality – that disquiets our verbiage and relies on HIS presence to cheer and to guide, in Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “I’m Resembling My Savior More Each Day” G. Ward

 

Matthew 6: ¹⁶ “Now whenever you fast, do not make a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they distort their faces so that they will be noticed by people when they are fasting. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. ¹⁷ But as for you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, ¹⁸ so that your fasting will not be noticed by people but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.

 

A personal relationship with God through Christ never meant one should keep their strongest conviction to oneself, but that any would absolutely proclaim their complete dependence on the Lord Jesus. However, that trust, is with a spiritual ratio significantly more weighty on the front (which maintains an insistence to not be seen along with Christ, but ensures HE receives all the glory, as HE grants you and me life in earth to proclaim HIM), versus a wrongful back end, replete with religiosity with boasts in how I made it and whereas Christ knew HIS audience had some zealous members, eager to share with everyone how they were fasting, even with appearances so entirely skeletal, Jesus’ instruction insisted they do all they could to not be seen for what they do, but all grace and mercy would offer from the Almighty’s Throne.

May we disquiet all our accomplishments, to more exact – “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me” (Gal.2:20).

 

Father God, may that desire, rise to the day’s occasion which includes Your imposed instruction for us to become Your teachers in accordance to all we know about this Wonderful Savior and may we never regard how little we know against who perceivably is a greater theologian, but teach every portion with eternal significance, for Your Word is great and You remain greatly to be praised, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “When One Sips at the Cup of Mediocrity” G. Ward

 

Revelation 3: ¹⁵ ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. ¹⁶ So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth.

 

The city of our Lord’s discourse would draw a contrast of their water supply which ran through conduits warm and nauseating, and whereas a nearby city enjoyed both refreshing cold streams or healing hot springs, this actuality would catch their attention to know their arrogance, self-reliance and complacency was known by HIM and to that end we must understand HE’S still the same God. Therefore, the day presented, with all its magnificent planning, even concerns itself unto a weekend, with all its selfish delight, should more ask, what can I render to You, Lord? Instead, too many will suggest, “this is my money – I worked hard for, so I’ll do as I please!” HIS answer is with the similitude of what it means to say, “I will vomit you out of My mouth.” As the unpleasant taste of water existed in Laodicea, causing its residents to immediately spit it up, our Lord has no part in self-preservation and whereas HIS patience with any is evidenced by the new day presented, perhaps some may not experience another day’s journey – for HE owns the air…

 

Father God, while those of us who’ve experienced Your forgiveness are so grateful, we’re not satisfied with those waddling in impure waters and whereas we desire taking them to Jesus, our Lord, where thirst unto any can be no more, we ask that our plans be significantly reverted to the best plan, as You direct us to them and our sharing would be ongoing, until they’re able to take another by the hand and become part of Your sweet fellowship. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Obscured Through My Savior’s Care” G. Ward

 

Ephesians 2:10, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

 

When a man is faced with an imminent death, he won’t hold to his value system pertinent to politics, social activism, or global unification, but he’ll either embody fear from what he’s never been exposed, or confidence and perhaps the lack of to know of an eternal destiny. If the latter exists, where no confidence or trust abides, perhaps those messages from childhood, then adolescence to manhood concerning the Way of the Lord may surface and as natural men begin to contemplate a few good things endeavored, or points of generosity unto others may rise to consciousness, he may consider that sufficient onto Heaven, but that WON’T QUALIFY ANY.

What any perceive about Holy God, must be verified in HIS Word and whereas a few of us undeserving of such mercy and grace from HIS throne has us contained in trusting HIM in every way, we seek to breathe HIS peace, intentionally so, to another that never imagined they too could have a love relationship, so intimate with God Almighty through Christ.

 

Father God, You’ve given us access to Your room no one could enter and whereas Your Only Righteous Son, Jesus gave that access necessary by giving HIS life in our stead, even rising in the glorious occasion, proclaiming ALL POWER is HIS in earth and Heaven, we welcome HIS assigning us and are comfortable with embodying HIS attitude, giving generously and compassionately because of all HE did and does, thanking You for Your Holy, Incomparable gift, Jesus, our Lord, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “They Got What THEY Deserved?” G. Ward

 

Obadiah 1

¹² Do not gloat over your brother’s day, The day of his misfortune. And do not rejoice over the sons of Judah on the day of their destruction; Yes, do not boast
On the day of their distress.

 

This verse highlights Edom's pride and lack of compassion, showing they profited from their kin's disaster instead of showing empathy, a sin for which God promises judgment, mirroring the principle that "as you have done, it shall be done to you". 

Each of us have squabbles with those we love, but if/when our desire is to see their emotional pain when the thing you may have said becomes true, or if nothing was said, but they despise you for just existing and give you grief each time you encounter them and your rejoicing when the same plight is given them – go to Holy God immediately and witness the price paid for your own sinfulness and how it still violates the Wonderful Savior, when you fail to observe HIS way in everything, yet HE keeps reaching for you.

 

Father God, our ways are corrupt and You’ve determined there is no righteousness found in us apart from Jesus having given us HIS very own. We have no excuse after confessing our sins unto HIM; because, we’ve been given HIS life to witness and whereby HE was opposite of our impractical way, we desire Your Makeover. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Artificial Intelligence Pursued” G. Ward

 

Hebrews 13:⁸ Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever. 

 

The moral principles of God’s Word are eternal and believers are HIS representatives in earth to significantly portray these mandates can be done with joy, assuring peace of HIS presence, as we remain steadfast followers amidst an ever-evolving society.

The prior verses to our theme signify a variety of spiritual institutions to consider a reasonable approach in sacrifice and that consideration (for you and me) should always culminate with imitating our Lord Jesus’ example. For HE never sought to merge the highest standard from the Truth of God’s Word with what appeared to be a progressive era, but was always found faithful. Moreover, HE determined that what was proposed for those created by the Almighty should submit to that reign and rule, because the presumption from man is gladly received but for a season and God’s Word is perfect and forever.

The moral code for mankind, established by Holy God is timeless, transcending every generation and we ought not think too highly of modern technology, along with information’s availability at a moment’s notice to suggest we’ve arrived; for soon we’ll all be faced with departure from this weary land, desiring an eternity with HIM, to have never practiced how we’ve placed our complete trust in this All-Wise Savior.

 

Father God, may our blessed assurance rise to the occasion of why today was granted. Redemption from sin given by Christ demanded that greatest sacrifice and now demands ours. So, may we be more intentional than yesterday and find another to instruct, so they also can journey to know what’s been provided them by our Gracious Lord, confidently standing on HIS promises onto an eternity with HIM, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Selflessness: An Uncommon Posture” G. Ward

 

1 Peter 4:1 “Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, ² so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human lusts, but for the will of God.”

 

The goal of the believer’s confession of his or her own sins forgiven was met by Christ, who suffered, enough so, that disallowed any effort from us through such reconciliation unto Holy God. With such a gift of grace, any should immediately and often ask the question, what shall I render to this Savior who has no need of anything (?) and whereas our Lord’s Truth records, “to obey is better than sacrifice,” it means that doing what God demands is far more important than offering religious gifts or rituals, especially when someone tries to use sacrifices to make up for disobeying God's direct commands. Obedience, is a silent, humbled partner and at the forefront of its compliance, will regard all Christ endured (i.e., including HIS dying), along with HIS generosity in merciful kindness; always putting others ahead of Himself. When that meditation becomes a daily, ongoing reflection, a believer’s life prepares not for more years in earth, void of sufferings, but welcomes them; in view of the home HE prepared for them – whereby the threat of death and troubles are non-existent.

 

Father God, Your plan from the beginning involved this Gift of Jesus and our praise won’t cease to know You had us in mind before the foundation of the world. This day, wishes You a great morning, along with delighting in wherever You take us and proclaiming Your tender mercy to whoever; praying that Your church be revived in the greatest spiritual reality that Christ paid it all, and rendered the perfect example in endurance; in HIS Name we pray, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “What You See, Is What You Get” G. Ward

 

Psalm 119:160, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments is everlasting.”

 

I must admit how troubled I’ve been for other’s consideration of perceived, co-equal manuscripts prioritized over God’s Word. I’m an avid reader of most anything, amazed even at qualitative authorship from many, but I’ve experienced the joy to know what our Lord supplied when HE said, “My peace I give you; not as the world gives” and that my friends is known solely through the Word of Truth. Moreover, we’ll need to more understand it as final authority, particularly as we unfold more of its reality that says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but MY words are forever.”

If as believers, we’re people of eternity, dependent on our Lord’s sustenance in everything, the assurance of HIS presence as we journey in/through this strange and weary land, won’t happen mystically, but only through a daily consultation mandated by our Creator.

 

And Lord God, we pray for one another, that each of us “may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that we may be filled to all the fullness of God” and become more prepared to proclaim HIS grace and mercy, as HIS words grant us security and comfort onto endurance. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “First Day of School with an Empty Backpack” G. Ward

John 15: ²⁰ Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they followed My word, they will follow yours also.

 

Televangelist Kenneth Copeland’s eldest son, is with a recent video expressive in how he doesn’t question God, but won’t understand why his parents are in a debilitative state of health although months away from being 90 years old. Moreover, that same son (in his 60’s) would proclaim “this ain’t right” for my parents to be in such pain. He then would state, “we still speak faith.” The grand-daughter then chimes in to suggest that her Pa-Pa was recently on her podcast to say her grandfather taught her that his healing already took place on the cross over 2000 years ago and he’s just waiting for his body to catch up and many don’t like such an answer. Both are begging for answers (cf. Jas.3:13-16).

Millions have ascribed to these kinds of ministries, very ill-prepared for life’s actualities (*1 Pe.4:12-13); even passing opportunity to carefully examine our Lord’s choosing those first disciples and whereas that listing at Matthew 10 were all killed for their faith, with the exception of Judas Iscariot, who died by suicide and John, traditionally believed to have died of old age, we must prepare (*Matt.16:24). By true faith in Christ, these who placed implicit trust in the Savior live eternally and weren’t taught an attachment to a strange land, but to more exist as a citizen of Heaven (Phil.3:20).

Follow-ship of shiny presentations with demand from charismatic leaders, nullifies “to God be the glory…”

 

Father God, those proposing to be teachers are certainly held to a stricter judgment that none should desire, but exorbitant lifestyles overwhelm spiritual sensibility. So, on today, we pray for the Copeland family, to absolutely witness Truth in their time of need, so as to identify with repentance unto Your lordship, so others may be significantly changed, not for mere popularity’s sake, but because You desire their repentance, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Greatest Prayer: Thank YOU Lord!” G. Ward

 

Psalm 116: ⁵ Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; Yes, our God is compassionate. ⁶ The Lord watches over the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me.

 

While this entire psalm celebrates a love relationship with Holy God, particularly as he’d cry our in utter distress, I want to pay attention to his ending remarks; for they embody desire to do the Father’s will. The psalmist asks, "What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits toward me?" His resolve was to lift the cup of salvation, and proclaim the Lord as One, even if things wouldn’t deliver a reprieve on his own terms, but to know that above all he was afforded a true refuge where ultimate comfort exists. His thanksgiving assured the Lord that never letting go of God’s unchanging hand, would prayerfully serve as a witness to others how living a godly life is easy when a soul has determined I’m a representative of the Holy ONE.

 So, although we know, God has need of nothing, may the service we offer, serve others sacrificially and faithfully, remembering to remain in the shelter HE provides. What a joy to call HIM, Father!

 

And Lord God, we first marvel in how many examples of fallen individuals like us, exists from Genesis to Revelation and whereas like us, rebellion was their middle name, many found their way to surrendering to Your care for them, despite their wavering souls. May we, before every word or deed becomes our demand, remember our Lord Jesus, how HE without hesitance offered Himself in our stead, although entirely innocent, that condemnation from You would never be ours and then determine our every proclamation would speak as though You were speaking, all because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Kitchen Table Talk” G. Ward

James 1:22

But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.

 

We sang a song many years ago that asked a question, “Don’t You Want to Go to that Land, Where I’m Bound(?)” and whereas those lyrics were so entirely melodious, even compelling an audiences’ evaluation of an inevitable eternity with or without Almighty God it can mostly embody an inadequate substitute for sharing the gospel of Christ with its glorious implications. The Truth of God’s Word mandates believers to profoundly teach one lacking (daily) intimacy with Christ – that is, HIS commands (Matt.28:19). Moreover, our Lord would also compel every believer as HIS missionary, because a person cannot believe in Christ if they have never been told about who He is and what He has done and it’s our responsibility to offer that unmerited favor of HIS presentation (Ro.10:14). It however, has become more apparent that our commission by such a Gracious Savior has become the biggest violation for us; for our words are cheapened by great lack in activity. We’re blessed and highly favored, while neglecting to share that same reality with others, in how they too can be (Matt.7:13-14). This day presented won’t call for wearing “sackcloth and ashes” due to inactivity, just repentance; for HE remains our generous, merciful Lord – prepared to extend a second chance.

 

Father God, the Way of the Lord is greatly to be praised and so we ask that our godly sorrow rise to the occasion in all Christ offered, proclaiming HIS sufficiency to any, erasing speculations and presumption unto every mindset by teaching how Jesus correlated in the earth HE made and did so perfectly. May our yes be overshadowed by intentionality to put others interests ahead of our own. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

 

Today’s Thought “Running Aimlessly” G. Ward

 

Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. ² My soul will make its boast in the Lord; The humble will hear it and rejoice.

 

While King David appears to be the subject of the immediacy when great troubles demands a quick response, particularly as he’s faced with being hunted by a first King for Israel (Saul), who sought to kill David from mere jealousy, David, in all his speedy presumption ran straight to the arms of the Phillistine King in a nation where’d he received great notoriety for killing their greatest warrior (Goliath). His trust of the Almighty through many trials before witnessed great and notable fortitude, yet this encounter caused such fear, so much so that he’d distant himself from a desired spiritual character, pretending to be insane. This great, opposing king would immediately dismiss David, by asking those servants of his, “Do I lack insane people” (?).

There’s great futility for you and me, every-time we venture to satisfy moments in our estimation in what could be a benefit or harmful to our journey in the Almighty’s earth. Our Lord’s insights are remarkably superior and Only HE knows all and whereas HE is ALL Wisdom and generously desires to impute that unto us, particularly as we trust and obey, we run to our King.

 

Father God, we see ourselves in David and desire more of Thee; asking Your forgiveness, whenever our leading usurps Your greatest guidance. May we journey in this day provided, surrendered to the attitude of our Lord Jesus, demanding of ourselves as HE did, “not MY will, but Yours be done” all because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Clarity on Truth” G. Ward

 

Romans 10:9-10, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.”

 

Proclaimers of Truth are servants of this foundational gospel (Ro.10:14), presenting the Savior as One who died for the sins of man and per Holy God’s insistence as Sole Designator on who comes to HIM, we’re grateful HE knows our name (John 6:44). Our hearts beforehand, were clothed in an impractical approach to life, believing if we functioned in civility and hospitality, even believing in God, this would carry us to HIS bosom, to forget, “demons also believe” (Jas.2:19). Any faithful to salvation’s calling to fulfill, must consider total allegiance, in allowing Christ to re-build them, via a devoted submission to HIS reign and rule, with a daily, ongoing pursuit in all HE is saying (that is, HIS complete Word), with implicit follow-ship; otherwise, these prerequisites violated keeps any insufficient.

Father God, You desire our repentance and whereas Your lovingkindness and patience could end soon, may every believer’s determination awake to those needing Your lifeline; for great praise is linked with obedience to Your commands. So, we ask Your forgiveness where inactivity existed, along with spiritual awareness in our every step, all because of Jesus, our Lord, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Broken Routineness” G. Ward

 

Philippians 2:1 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

 

The game of chess is remarkably challenging, involving strategic movement of varied pieces and ultimately most protective of one, the King, and when he’s captured, you’ve lost. That game is a corollary to our theme; life however, is not a game, but involves a categorical strategizing (Matt.7:13-14) and whereas every move we’re to make, involves what we believe to be best and whereas that crossroad determines I can bi-laterally exist with my Lord, alongside honoring my speculations that guides me great failure is imminent. Why? Because many times I’m hurried in desire, to forget my leading has been instrumental in many miseries, along with some bouts in happiness that never satisfied and whereas that can warrant a slowdown, perhaps it’s that contemplative review of the beauty of assured peace that overwhelms my soul when I absolutely rely on the Savior, who demonstrated how HE loved me and gave HIS life so I’d have eternal life with HIM is what I need (*Ro.8:37).

Another day presented, can witness lesser struggle; but, to do as I’ve done (distant from HIS lead), disallows spiritual progress. Instead, may we determine – what’s best for us is Jesus, then follow.

 

Father God, how excellent is Your mercy towards us. You’ve supplied greatest instructions and desire for this era, what was given Your Old Testament saints; the challenge to represent You through holiness (Isa.49:6, Matt.5:16). May the unity proposed for Your people, signify, without reluctance, that Your Word is true and worthy to present in a world entirely weary; as we represent the Light placed within, so as to overcome darkness, blessing our Lord Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Better Than?” G. Ward

 

Ephesians 2: ⁸ For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; ⁹ not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

 

Good deeds, moral performance, or religious actions cannot earn or contribute to how our Lord Jesus became the substitute for the death we deserved. He’d do so - by imposing HIS own righteousness unto everyone who places their trust in HIM to lead their lives in every way, preventing anyone from bragging about their salvation and whereas many are quick to express how great our God has been to them, on the other side of such monologue is another person perhaps doubtful if God can/will be good to them. Verse 10 from our theme answers onto a proper reaction: We, as HIS believers are HIS workmanship, created to do good works. God has pre-ordained a path of service onto others (feeling disconnected) and specific tasks for each believer to fulfill. This implies an intentional, daily, active life of personal obedience and service, living out the purpose God has designed before HE made the world.

Father God, may this beginning of the week not resemble the preceding ones, but move from self-focus to the attitude of Christ, who put other’s interests ahead of HIS own at a continuum. May every follower more understand to serve YOU absolutely means serving our neighbor, whereby our Lord Jesus served us. May HE be praised through/in our every effort. Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Another Monday Granted” G. Ward

 

James 1: ¹⁵ Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it has run its course, brings forth death.

 

To even hear the term “sin” is strange for this era. There’s an unfortunate demand from people to not hear of any judgment for lifestyles they embrace, even believing their sinfulness can still allow their hearing God’s voice, although habitually involved in selfish pursuits – which is sin. Many pulpits know this cultural demand and shamefully stay clear of messaging that may be construed as violating these lifestyles and we’ll need to know, the term lifestyles – includes every failure in activities of sorts that Christ Himself didn’t/wouldn’t  do (*1 John 2:6).

Our passage on today explains that unchecked sinful desire (lust) leads to action (sin), which ultimately results in spiritual and physical death. Using imagery of conception and birth, the verse highlights that sin originates from within an individual's own heart, not from God.

 

And Lord God, You allowed Your Servant Jeremiah to share with the whole of mankind, that above all, the heart is desperately wicked, to then ask, who can understand it and whereas the very next verse demands all know what is written – that YOU alone search the heart and test the mind, giving to each person according to his ways, we ask without trepidation that YOU change our hearts O God, make them ever new, in through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Kiss of Death” G. Ward

 

Matthew 26: ⁴⁸ Now he who was betraying Him gave them a sign previously, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the one; arrest Him.” ⁴⁹ And immediately Judas went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

 

To first remember, Jesus was God in the flesh, allowing this betrayal, knowing who HE made. Secondly, we’ll need to be reminded what betrayal is; it meant to deliver Jesus up treacherously. Moreover, for Judas this was intentional. Thirdly, didn’t we commit to His lordship over us? Have we forsaken HIS rule in exchange for our many pleasures so seemingly innocent? Has there been commitment to pursue His Word and then found us inconsistent? As a disingenuous kiss exists unto a spouse one insists they love and whereas we propose to be His church, that is, His bride – how well have you done?

Father God, may our view be open to correcting this unfortunate reality by understanding You giving us daily bread signifies a daily dependence on You for every provision and a recognition of You as our Ultimate Sustainer. Without You granting air, we don’t have life, So, may our hearts embrace believing this through better submission, then improving on testifying to ourselves and everyone that Your will be done, through Jesus, Amen. 

 

Today’s Thought “Never Too Busy” G. Ward

 

Matthew 19: ¹⁴ But Jesus said, “Leave the children alone, and do not forbid them to come to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

 

Accountability in faith matters must seek to arise in knowing I’m too incomplete unto existing in the broad scope of a chaotic world, including living by a self-imposed standard of whim, desire and speculation. This presumptive stance of my consideration is unable to accurately calculate the cost; for I’m totally unable to look into the future to view its result. Moreover, if and when I’ll decide my stance is derived from a prudent, educated investigation from others encounters who may be deemed successful intellects, I further in rebellion to what’s best to consider – for all should consult, then follow ONE who remains Perfect because HE is All Knowing and compassionately attune to what’s best for us.

Our theme maintains that coming to Jesus as children did won’t disappoint; for they were enamored and awe struck by HIS presence and that remains the requirement. Furthermore, a child understands they bring little to nothing to the vast scope of the world and merely depend on their guardian’s provisions and while they’re with propensity to step out of bounds, they crave the discipline that peaceably and lovingly sets them on the right course, and to that end – I must never become too grown up.

 

Father God, You refer to us as Your children, not as a demeaning inference, but an intimate one. For the love relationship You impose on us keeps guiding, leading us beside the still water and whereas that posture grants peace and comfort to know You’ll never leave us, it can also warn us that a view in such a proposed solace, can witness our drowning in that same body of water, representative of deep troubles everywhere. So, we say loudly, thank You for never letting go, all because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “You Want It, You Got It” G. Ward

 

“Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days—You would not believe if you were told.” Habakkuk 1:5

 

Appeals to Holy God cannot/shouldn’t prepare for reprieve on one’s own terms and that was the Prophet Habakuk’s cry; he was exhausted with his compatriot’s lack of trusting the Almighty’s way and it appeared the Lord was silent and tolerable even. Our Lord at verse 5 answers with great commands to this prophet; look and observe, be astonished and wonder. God’s people fit in where the heathens left off; more considerate of the world, than hearing and obeying their Maker. So, our Lord allowed the ruthless Babylonians to invade their territory to cruelly victimize Judah. Amazingly, many local fellowships purport fantastic prophecies towards hundreds or thousands of worshippers (cf. Mt.7:21) throughout auditoriums (weekly) with promises of no more trouble, while sharing very little on true contingency for peace (i.e. repentance). Is God the same God now as in the days of Habakuk? Does HE change, or do we need to change?

The Word of God is not the textbook of liberal arts; it’s astoundingly opposite of earthly thoughts. Moreover, and throughout both testaments, Holy God caused great destruction, even up to death for many who felt intelligent enough in distorting His commands. The beauty in privatized worship is that it helps us to know of His great care for us and never desire to repeat the mistakes of our predecessors; but ONLY trust HIM, even While sufferings may be continual.

 

Father God, we’re guilty of having needed You on wrongful terms. Our hearts many times desired retribution, and whereas You give us mercy, many times we failed to extend mercy to those we felt were grossly unrighteous. Then we come to our spiritual senses, and realize our Lord Jesus’ persecution and oppression given HIM for our gross spiritual negligence and hang our heads low, asking Your forgiveness and praying for the lost, because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Beauty’s Deception” G. Ward

 

 1 Samuel 16:7

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God does not see as man sees, since man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Let’s be clear on today, Holy God has no need of anything or anyone, but we certainly have need of HIS air, including HIS provisions and whereas HE desires a love relationship with us that’s real and personal, depending on HIM in every way – HE won’t lead us wrongfully. Our theme embraces a search for Israel’s second king and whereas the people’s delight is mostly in a charismatic leader, who hopefully looks the part, God’s choice circumvents appearances and looks solely at the intent of the will of man, where his or her emotional drive emanates – but any who profess to be led by oneself, even moving on one’s own volition disqualify themself and are doomed for many failures. Instead, we must look at all we do, along with our involvements of sorts and re-commit to excellence – only found in God consciousness; for to believe is to surrender to HIS perfect delight and thereafter joy will be yours.

 

Father God, Your love for us didn’t wait for our attitudes to reflect humility, but loved us when we were unlovely, so that we may gauge our transformation from the pursuit in all Your Word says, to then move towards obedience thereunto. Lord God, we thank You for searching our hearts and then changing them according to Your goodness and not our self-righteousness, because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Stay Hydrated” G. Ward

 

Psalm 63:1 God, You are my God; I shall be watching for You; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,
In a dry and exhausted land where there is no water.

 

While worship is primarily perceived as something done corporately and on Sunday mornings, King David gives us insight from the true believer’s desire to intimately depend on Holy God comparable to one travelling in a desert while absolutely parched, desiring a cool drink of water. He’s craving the Lord’s presence more than being rescued. I say that in view of this psalm being indicative of King Saul’s unrelenting pursuit of him (merely due to jealousy, in how the people esteemed David over himself). Moreover, perhaps this great psalm could have derived from his own son’s murderous plot against him – whereby too was ever encompassing. Regardless, it instructs us to know we also should celebrate our Lord’s presence similarly. His care for today is no different than for David’s dilemma then. HE insists, no matter the circumstance, we’d “let our requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

 

And Lord God, we’re especially glad that Your reign and rule of us is considerably more than what we ever thought could exist for this life given by You and while so many seek to thwart the many pitfalls of life, we understand when we encounter various trials, to know that “the testing of our faith produces endurance” and so we don’t run aimlessly, but unto Your Mighty Shelter, through Jesus, Amen. 

 

Today’s Thought “Death: Where is Your Sting?” G. Ward

 

1 Corinthians 15: ²² For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. 

 

The world maintains a universalist approach towards belonging to Holy God and more so upon hearing of death for some imperfect, but not guilty of heinous sins and extreme illicit behavior. That assessment however, was never ours to determine; instead, to know there’s no one now, or in prior generations who qualify for Heaven by mere human effort (Ro.3:10,23), and whereas Christ, in HIS short, exemplary life in earth epitomized unparalleled sacrifice, even dying (such as was imposed on mere man) and gave HIS life freely (and to know that at any time HE could have rejected this most extreme suffering), while maintaining an end goal – to conquer death, so every one who’d place their complete allegiance to HIM would inherit eternal life, we say yes to HIS reign and rule. Believers throughout the world are called to gratefulness in view of HIS resurrection, for it afforded their own.

 

Father God, Your plan from the beginning illustrates Your unfailing love; so, we praise You and honor our greatest Provision, Jesus; desiring to never turn back to a sin saturated mindset, by honoring the Spirit’s teaching on walking as our Redeemer did. May every believer run to more proclaim that death is without sting because of You as our Great Shepherd, compelling our servitude unto Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “A Doting Papa” G. Ward

 

Colossians 2: ² That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and that they would attain to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself.

 

Many with children and grandchildren desire attending school assemblies, particularly award programs of sorts that witness their own receiving accolades from educators proclaiming their proficiencies. It grants parental hope in how their effort towards ensuring those youthful will attain vocational respectability *that pays them generously, so as to give their children many things they too don’t need and value. The Apostle Paul’s soul was overwhelmed in hope for these captive to more consort with the world’s standard of what it means to be successful over knowing the will of God and HIS gospel solely derived by Christ sacrifice and whereas this Apostle desired they’d more press towards maturing in that sufficiency – so much more satisfying, along with delivering any who will place their complete trust in this Blessed Redeemer by following how HE correlated in earth to Heaven.

 

And Lord God, our hearts are many times laid bare in diversionary acceptance of standards entirely temporary that ultimately never satisfy and so we ask forgiveness, and identify with the re-focus provided from Your Word, that allows recall of our greatest day; when we repented of our sins and then was granted assurance of eternity. So, may our “striving” now more proclaim our hope for those within our gates towards maturing to that gospel presented to us, ALL because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Softly and Tenderly, Jesus is Calling…” G. Ward

 

James 3:13 “Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.”

 

This verse celebrates exercising power with control – that is, a constraint to yield to where wisdom flows. James would also be inspired to write “You do not have because you do not ask,” which merely means that many exercise in failure to seek these things from God through prayer and that includes an ongoing meditative process of being owned by the Gentle Savior Jesus, to then comply with HIS example in earth and whereas HE was wrongfully accused, persecuted, then crucified, knowing the exactness of what was to take place years in advance, yet would endure (with you and me in mind), John Mark would record that Jesus our Lord would arise very early in the morning to convene with the Father to set the highest model to where wisdom begins and ends, to then hear and do.

 

And Father God, our approach is tenderly in tune with Your directives, particularly as we diminish in view of gaining entry onto the presence of the Holy One; asking Your forgiveness for having exercised before in mere speculation, even ruining other’s mindsets that kept them distant from Your reign and rule and now determined to recall how our Lord Jesus correlated in an era just like ours. May HE be praised as we say yes to HIS will, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Creek Is Rising” G. Ward

 

Psalm 142:1 I cry out with my voice to the Lord; With my voice I implore the Lord for compassion. ² I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare my trouble before Him.

 

Every believer should occupy a daily review of what may be overwhelmingly domineering for our lives; particularly those things that either needs to be displaced or diminished – because they’ve become infectious, even un-spiritual and not worthy for the presence of the Lord. We’ve been taught that a return to the Lord’s Way, even that to which desires to never visit these thoughts and practices that violate personal pursuit towards holiness should await the Almighty’s magic wand and whereas HIS hearing our pleas for help is with an answer (Jer.33:3), returning to that perfect will HE freely offers, insists we replace every indiscretion with the Truth of HIS Word. May we all be spiritually charged in view of our Compassionate Savior at watch.

 

Father God, it’s our desire to bless Your Name at all times and so we pray for one another to make a deliberate choice to praise You more throughout the course of the day presented, that allows You greatest honor, confirming Your Word – that witnesses others recognizing how You desire a love relationship with them also and thereafter be blessed as You witness all Your children thanking You in every circumstance, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “A Smorgasbord of Inaccuracies” G. Ward

 

Philippians 3: ¹⁸ For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even as I weep, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ, ¹⁹ whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who have their minds on earthly things.

 

The many warnings our Lord provided HIS followers concerning false teachers, became the significant message of warning every apostle, along with generations thereafter of true, genuine and authentic teachers of Truth would share. We do so, even like Jesus and Paul – that includes tears, so significantly sad to see many distorting Truth among audiences, while being leaders themselves and whereas you better not tell them they aren’t Christian, because they deny the whole counsel of God’s Word from Genesis to Revelation, even estimating it’s not God’s Word, but a book about God, which ultimately shares that every opinion from man is with a right to interpret it accordingly – remains a farse. It’s apparent they’re troubled about what’s inside, having reduced God to inviting their pleasures, precluding God is without condemnation of sin, even granting permission for many to not worry when you violate God’s Holy standard, because everyone is prone to do so as humans; while regarding our God as tolerant (NO, HE isn’t! – 1 John 1:5) …

And Lord God, You cannot abide in darkness and have no part where sin exists and whereas You sent Jesus to stand in place of man, as all were found disabled to atone for their own sins, those who place their trust in this All-Wise, Sacrificial Savior are called to hate the sin existent in them, but allowing a new life in Christ to surface. May each of us rehearse that Truth and stand on the Words of our Lord Jesus. Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Cross: How Did It Work for Jesus?” G. Ward

Proverbs 18:21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Let’s gain some quick context to what this means: 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. 

Altogether, both passages merely mean that the greatest good and the greatest harm can exist in what you say. It’s bothersome to hear so many echo an unstudied nonsensical idea in being able to do what only our Lord did in speaking things into existence; we’re far too selfish to be trusted with such (Jer.17:9). Moreover, if our predecessors were endowed with such ability, they would have spoken freedom from working sun up to sundown. Our parents would have spoken financial equality, etc. There are some spiritually insistent in believing they can and they’re called witches, believing that the spells they conjure will work. Folks God made us to solely rely on HIM and believing HE’S qualified, trusts in HIS directives and causes us to watch our mouths, because as HIS very own, we don’t want any to become an emotional wreck based on harmful words from the mouth HE gave us, instead, our delight is to be known as peacemakers.

 

And Lord God, You speak to us in varied ways for our benefit and for Your glory and compel us in kindness, with great patience and whereas our Lord Jesus didn’t utter a word when great insults were given HIM, we ask that many passages in Your Word surface to teach us accordingly, so our newest spiritual countenance would shine brightly onto any whereby our encouraging words will present Your gospel to the glory of King Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The New Welcome Mat, Un-noticed” G. Ward

 

Philippians 1: ²⁹ For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, ³⁰ since you are engaged in the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.

 

Contrary to popular belief, the gospel has never been the welcoming message as many suppose. It’s not because of anything less than that to which it seeks to do – that is to change our hearts; conforming them to Christ’s image and whereas change is uncomfortable, sinfulness is often comfortable, because it embraces selfish desire and whereas our Lord demonstrated selflessness, even forgiving HIS oppressors, (particularly since they thought they killed HIM - despite how HE freely gave HIS life), having said at HIS highest point in agony, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” we’re called to imitate HIM. Moreover, He’d say, “a servant is not greater than his Master.”  Suffering for that cause (i.e., the gospel), is what the Apostle Paul reminded these believers.

False encouragement is disastrous, it seeks to take Christianity to easement, a freedom from pain and rejection and while Jesus teaches believers that all would be sent as “sheep before wolves,” particularly as carriers/dispensers of HIS Truth, preparing in HIS Word surpasses what man has to say.

 

Father God, the many trials imposed on us establish character that keeps us persevering in Christ; so, we welcome them, celebrating being equated with our Savior. And Father, we pray for the ones weak to resolute practice of faith, because of greater exposure to the world’s message that has them straining towards false motivations. May all our encounters embrace more Truth in Your Word, as we rest in Your care, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Without Eternal Implication” G. Ward

 

1 Timothy 6:3-5, “If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.”

 

I don’t know about you, but most rooms I enter appear so loud; the perspectives of mankind are inescapable and numerous, along with being overwhelmingly heard; with potential ability to penetrate desired meditation about our Lord’s goodness. Perhaps some like me have been guilty of instructing the Lord on how He should go about working on our behalf even after we’ve been instructed to imitate the Savior’s, “not My will, but Yours be done?” Maybe you sought to inform God like I have concerning many things occurring in the earth, devaluing His being All-Knowing? No one seems to want to sit quiet anymore! We’ve understood our frailty, particularly when health fails us and certainly understand our limited knowledge; but our expressions more teeter-totter on a little knowledge about most things which lends danger for other’s continuance in the same. The room however can be disquieted, particularly when our meditations and prayers circumvent the Lord’s Way instead of receiving news at an instant with reaction unbecoming of Heaven’s delight.

 

Father God, we’re unified on strongest desire to Bless Your Name; however, we’ve not represented well, yet we’re fighting with a new determination that ensures Your will be done. So, Father we welcome another round through these disciplines that proves You love us and as the Spirit transforms us for Your glory. We celebrate Your presence that rehearses when we’re weak, You rise to the occasion as strong. Thank You for Perfect guidance, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Before the Foundation of the World?” G. Ward

 

Romans 8

1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus. ² For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.

 

I, like you, love to praise the Name of Jesus. I marvel at how He could forgive me; particularly since I’m with periodic bouts with the flesh unbecoming of Heaven’s delight and whereas I’ve read these passages to indicate that my being owned by this Magnificent Savior has become the sufficient justification Christ rendered entirely by Himself for our benefit. He tells us that being His means no condemnation any longer. Condemnation equals a guilty verdict, along with the penalty that verdict demands. When He says no condemnation, it means no sin a believer can commit—past, present, or future—can be held against him, since the penalty was paid by Christ and righteousness was imputed to the believer and no sin will ever reverse this divine legal decision.

The key towards greatest understanding however, rests with what it means to be in Christ Jesus. For every true Christian; to be in Christ means to be united with Him. This is not to say a mixture of our ideas along with His. HE’S ALL WISDOM – we’re not.

 

Father God, Your provision through Christ is remarkable and our awakening each day to such a reality must celebrate Your Name and whereas praise is great, it won’t disconnect from Your command to obey. So, may every true believer not become enamored with “no condemnation” without pursuit in ALL Your commands as our Leader Jesus orders our steps, Amen. 

 

Today’s Thought “Mission Forsaken” G. Ward

 

Psalm 119:30

I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your judgments before me.

 

Can we allow the majority to think their knowing portions of God’s Word, along with exercising as decent citizens, to believe that is the spiritual qualifier? Those who say they know the Savior are called HIS very own, to walk just as He walked and that investigation is both a daily and ongoing pursuit. Moreover, our Redeemer insists all know that “no one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” And why? It’s because there’s no righteousness in any - apart from full surrender, along with placing implicit trust in ALL Christ offered on one’s behalf – that is, the forgiveness of sins. And whereas the world cannot hear the Truth of HIS Word until we, who propose to know HIM – shares that Truth without fear and doubt – versus believing that we can praise our way in and out of knowing HIM, He’d tell us as HE instructed the Prophet Amos, “Woe to you who are longing for the day of the Lord, for what purpose will the day of the Lord be to you? It will be darkness and not light; As when a man flees from a lion and a bear confronts him!”

 

And Lord, it’s never what we can say, or seek to establish, for we’ll often think of the few things of our participation as rightful, to infrequently weigh every measure against Your Word. So, may our heads hang low in Your presence allowing You to be the Lifter of our souls; in view of all given by Jesus on/for our account; praying for every believer’s courage to ensure others will hear that Truth and whereas HIS Name is Jesus, we pray, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Night Owl” G. Ward

 

Matthew 26: ⁴⁰ And He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and He said to Peter, “So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour? ⁴¹ Keep watching and praying, so that you do not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

 

Jesus instructs his sleeping disciples in Gethsemane to "watch and pray" to avoid falling into temptation, highlighting that while the spirit is willing, the human body (flesh) is weak. This passage emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God's strength to overcome vulnerability to temptation. Those from our Lord’s immediate choosing would take for granted the Savior’s presence, after all, they would absolutely depend on Him in everything for three straight years and whereas becoming too familiar will/can witness contemptuous behavior, every generation has suffered. More than often, our Lord sought preparing them for His departure by teaching them how to correlate in this earth based on what they witnessed in Him – as He’d absolutely depended on our Heavenly Father. Although this transpired 2000 years ago, this remains relevant. In order to thwart being vulnerable to things unbecoming of our salvation, we must awaken to our Lord’s reign and rule of our lives.

 

Father God, whereas rest is vital to our existence, may our souls remain awakened to Your Truth so well, that our dreams are holy. In all we do our objective is to bless the Lord at all times and we’ll do so as we not forsake Your Word and follow practices that deny our inheriting Your eternal Kingdom. As we approach this weekend, may we not take off, but honor You through Your Word, in Jesus Name, Amen.   

 

Today’s Thought “Care for Others; Before Oneself” G. Ward

 

Romans 12:4-5

For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another.

 

The church of Jesus is called HIS very own, for HIS purpose and solely for HIS glory and whereas we celebrate that which only HE could do, we must remain contained in HIS directives, never to presume what HE needs, for HE has no need of nothing. This era, no different from others (historically), has run on a tangent of individuality, so as to desire a significantly unique, yet authoritative word from our Lord, rather than assure others of a real, personal relationship with Christ, that enables them in greater works than they ever thought could exist. The diversity in faith is meant for selflessness, to never believe in earthen superiority among Christ’s people, but to celebrate differences in/through each of us that adds great flavor for HIS kingdom’s receptivity to HIS reign and rule. If you look for applause upon every endeavor in Christ, sit down, until humility enters your heart, even give what you deem worthy to share to the masses to another perhaps feeling less than, so their inheritance through Jesus is assured.

 

Almighty God, may we consider unity among Your many members as opportunistic to remember apart from You we can do nothing; while teaching it’s so good to know the Savior, depending on HIM in everything. May our individuality be indicative of our personal relationship with You, enough so, that it encourages fellow believers to stand amidst trials, for troubles aren’t lasting; looking forward to Heaven, where striving won’t be necessary – because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Taking It on the Chin” G. Ward

 

Ephesians 4: ²⁹ Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear.

 

Pride of life can be mostly defensive and certainly sinful, keeping one with a fist balled up and whereas our Lord walked the earth HE made (John 1:1-3), knowing crowds were more enamored with all they’d pre-suppose He’d do, particularly since the predominant of HIS audiences were Jewish and severely disenfranchised amidst an Empire imposing great degradation and economic oppression towards them, Christ, our Lord, would yet exercise tremendous compassion, leaving HIS church for Heaven and granting us a similar peace unto endurance, despite societal triggers, so abusive. Moreover, at no time was HE personally guarded when insults and lies were spewed. So, may every believer exemplify HIS attitude, looking to others as we were found when called to serve, looking beyond every outsider’s indiscretion to know they need Jesus and we have the key to HIS throne room.

 

Father God, our minds were defiled in coarse assessment of others, forgetting the price our Savior lent to our deliverance and we thank You for this day presented to re-calculate that cost, by/through Your Word’s standard - "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” even placing others significantly before ourselves; for to know our Savior remains the greatest gift of all and HIS grace is more than enough. We pray for one another in that spirit, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Setting the Table” G. Ward

 

 Galatians 1: ¹³ For you have heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it;

 

Whereas many have achieved an education replete with a varied subject matter, establishing depth of intellect, even receiving great accolades among men, our Lord’s selecting those for HIS kingdom onto Heaven won’t ever call on what we know, or where we’ve been to determine our usefulness. Moreover, it’s widely perceived that many exhaust themselves in efforts seemingly prone towards success, to then try the Almighty; and that presumption will many times finds a fellowship (to their liking) for a potential harvest, to what was dry ground (*cf. John 6:44).

Our theme addresses a group then and now; even using Paul’s personal, notorious past, as if to say he was the worst of sinners, yet, our Lord called him from darkness unto light; teaching us that our Lord will have mercy on whom HE chooses, because HIS Divine intervention remains a world apart from mankind’s devices. We bring nothing to the table set before us.

 

Father God, You remain the Host of every supper, even preparing the table, despite enemies all around and one such an enemy is our very own self, yet, You seat us, washing us beforehand, introducing the delicacies in Your Word and whereas that menu is overwhelmingly tasteful and rich onto endurance, may our running to You never witness our getting tired, as we find Your Shelter, entirely Sufficient, for every season; all because of Jesus, Amen.