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.

 

Today’s Thought “Yesterday’s Mishap; Re-Visited” G. Ward

 

Ephesians 4:32

Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

 

Wherever I go, getting there early is essential for a clown like me – seemingly suited and ready to exemplify our Lord’s attitude and whereas arrogance in a believer forgets the hefty price our Savior rendered and because I know I’m the most opinionated individual needing to walk in the Spirit versus assessing what’s wrong with everyone else, I’m so grateful to Jesus for granting mine own repentance (Ac.3:19). I’ve now more identified with what David meant in the first Psalm when he said, “Blessed is the person who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners,
Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law he meditates day and night” and whereas our theme on today concentrates on duties pertinent to believer-ship, I’m compelled in genuine kindness, not a conjured conciliatory attitude.

Father God, our lives can mostly exhibit a superficial attitude, entirely flippant, even through our greeting one another – to not really identify with listening to those in our presence, but more identifying with what we perceive we need and whereas You remain our Great Shepherd – we have need of nothing, while absolutely thanking You for another day’s journey to get it right – because of Jesus’ kindly consideration and pardon of our sins. May praise unto HIM be greater, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Preparing for Someday” G. Ward

 

Romans 14:1 Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not to have quarrels over opinions.

The message of grace is perhaps the toughest to convey because it absolutely involves nothing we’ve done so well or can do outside of receiving its giftedness from our Savior. We, however, are with some throughout every audience who will place extra on it, that is grace. They’ll not eat certain foods; while denying consistent discipleship’s affiliation within a local fellowship. More than often, I’ve witnessed these can be disquieted by our peace with congeniality; enough so, even that affords us as believers to set the record straight and that’s why chapter 12 insists we try to live at peace with all and whereas perspectives change, the true meaning of God’s Word won’t. So, what you can do is arrange a short study with them to enable you both to become very solid in relationship with Christ; and news flash, it won’t begin with points of indifference, but hone in with Jesus’ work on behalf of man.

 

Father God, while we’ve all fallen short of Your glory, so, may our mercy towards one another increase, for no one desires to be shamed into greater belief, particularly by another as fallible as they are, yet want the conviction the Spirit offers. We ask that our spiritual meditations rise to understand that out war is not with people appearing cantankerous, but the forces of evil all around. May we present You as worthy to pursue by one standard, the Truth of Your Word and not vain arguments, in Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Loose Lips…” G. Ward

 

1 John 3:18

Little children, let’s not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.

 

I would call this section of chapter 3 of 1 John a synopsis in empathy, that is an ability to understand another’s dilemma and compassionately so. Followers of Christ seek to practice righteousness, whereas others invent their own righteousness in accordance to what’s popular and because small portions of believers exist in a world filled with those un-surrendered to Christ, we appear odd, even self-righteous, particularly since we won’t involve ourselves with any appearance of unrighteousness. So, John invites every believer to know that regardless of what fellowship we frequent, the household of faith must prioritize one another; for to say I love you is cheapened when consolation from one is needed, along with material needs to thereafter witness our mouths echo, “I’ll be praying for you” to then move on to a pursuit in happiness, while misery victimizes your brother or sister.

Father God, Your Truth says that You’ll never leave us, nor forsake us and whereas Your Truth also insists that we, Your followers seek to imitate You, may we cease lip service and serve You by serving others; forgetting about ourselves and concentrating on all You’ve provided through sending Your Only Son – Jesus, whereby we praise You for such Perfect rescue. In HIS Name we pray, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Don’t Pass Go!” G. Ward

 

John 10: ²⁹ My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. ³⁰ I and the Father are one.”

 

The foundation of belief to know Jesus as Lord, understands that HE was/is the essence of God; meaning HE shares the exact same divine nature, being, and attributes as God the Father. He is not a separate being or a lesser creation, but the full, eternal expression of God existing in human form. Unapologetically, a believer’s proclamation of such must begin and end on that note; for there’s no connectivity to Holy God otherwise (John 14:6) and whereas some intellectuals have examined, then confirmed the historical proofs of HIS existence, that admittance can deny that actuality (i.e., that HE was God in the flesh – John 1:1-3,14).

King David’s expression, “The Lord is my Shepherd” transcends every generation (in believer-ship), that lends security in earth to Heaven, even unfolding a united front of our Triune Maker (The Father, Son and Spirit), having purposed even, our response concerning our Blessed Hope onto any, particularly in view of so many who deny such security with insistence that our Jesus was merely a good man. As believers, we know that HE remains the Only Good One who has redeemed us and shall forever proclaim HIM – Faithful!

 

Lord God, mankind, from the beginning have encountered opposing factions, denying Your power. May our steps cease moving towards these, more believing in our influence, than hearing their denial, particularly when the foundational matter resolved before the foundation of the world has been settled. We honor You with the monumental commission given us, remembering to never move away from the security to know You will never leave, nor forsake us, through Jesus, Amen.  

 

Today’s Thought “No Matter What the People Say” G. Ward

Colossians 3:1 Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth.

 

Whereas our exposure to statements that remind us that God makes no mistakes, along with HE may not come when you want HIM, our desperate hearts, particularly upon points of misery presented, begs HIS attention as if HE needs to awaken to these earthly realities (cf. Matt.6:10, John 4:24) and while many may exercise in a rightful pursuit of Holy God (i.e., a daily, diligent investigation HIS Word), all need to know HIS thoughts and ways remain incomparably highest.

The global climate however, furthers in divisiveness and witnesses political leaders dedicating themselves to a “Robin Hood” theorizing, whereby its citizenry suffers in great lack. Moreover, this era has become compassionately aware of the less fortunate by more exercising sentiment of “what a shame” and someone needs to do something about this syndrome.

We’ve more sought to embrace our earthen posture as something to behold, although so temporal; even allowing religionists of sorts to impose on us what they perceive the Almighty wants us to know, versus freely sharing how HE has need of nothing, while yet desirous of a love relationship with everyone who’ll repent of their sins through Christ (2 Pe.3:9-10). All of God’s Word presented is a call to reorient our focus from temporary, worldly concerns to eternal, Christ-centered realities.

 

And Father God, may all stand amazed in their re-orientation of the Spirit’s demand, then follow. We’ve often denied every era before ours, that’s included many who’ve doubted Your Sovereign Control; so, may this day provided endeavor praise unto You for allowing greater personal pursuit of Your rule of us onto Heaven where troubles vanquish; because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “From the Bottom to the Top” G. Ward

2 Peter 1:²⁰ But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture becomes a matter of someone’s own interpretation, ²¹ for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

 

Little Black children from the baby-boomer generation (b.1946-1964) and before took no issue with a picture of a White Jesus on their wall and it was explained who HE was, along with being mandated to reverence HIM. So, early indoctrination with that reality, would disallow our hatred of every person (even though great racial prejudice was vivid). It now appears that this era exercises oversight with a great song sung – “We Shall Overcome” forgetting the very next word “someday.” Those lyrics pervaded scriptural boundary to know our Lord won’t be governed by those HE made, moving on HIS time and for HIS glory. Moreover, it taught us managerial resilience in/through all HE provided, leaving complaint and not coming down from the wall (i.e., from Nehemiah 6:3, where Nehemiah is rebuilding Jerusalem's walls and refuses to be sidetracked by his enemies' plots). Generations now and to come (perhaps) have deemed those many beforehand irrelevant; for the pace of society is at a moment’s demand, seemingly met with comparability of a perceived disinterest of the wheel’s invention and whereas our Lord gave us HIS book, the eternal script, its relevancy continues, no matter the wheel’s invention, or the robot (AI driven) – for Truth remains. Finally, and whereby some Black Americans feel biblically disenfranchised and whereas “geography” is no longer a class (educationally) pursued, study of Truth witnesses’ verses replete with Africans. So, no – the White man didn’t give us his religion, we were on the ships taken from our homeland, understanding Jesus saves…

 

Father God, Your salvation is indiscriminate and mankind’s heart is desperately wicked, unfolding Your Way as Supreme, incomparably so. We rejoice that although sufferings persist, we can hide in Thee. May we all, who believe, trust, then do what our Lord Jesus commissioned us for and teach Your Word so as to extinguish doubt. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 Today’s Thought “Don’t Take It Personal” G. Ward

 

Matthew 10: ²¹ “Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. ²² And you will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.

 

These passages in Matthew 10 are the beginning of our Lord commissioning every disciple HE chose and even those He’ll choose (like you and me) to know of a difficult road ahead. Moreover, our Savior foretells an intense persecution for HIS followers, where allegiance to Him causes deep family divide—even betrayal, leading to death—along with universal hatred. Jesus warns that this opposition arises because of His name, not because they don’t like you, but because of a message that seeks to change them dramatically. However, those who endure to the end will receive salvation. That endurance desired must significantly observe HIS entire script, for it’s replete with many examples (like us) who endured great sufferings and experienced great failures, yet grateful for HIS unrelenting, forgiving guidance. Like them, we must endeavor greatest intimacy with Christ – through fervent acknowledgement (i.e., study) of HIS Truth. We must tire of attaining all the information in all HE says, but love HIM back by more obedience to what we read, for the obstacles ahead are too great to go it alone. 

 

Father God, we know Your Word as absolute and a Mighty Shelter and whereas our neglect to do what it says consistently exists, we desire to turn it around and institute faithfulness. May each of us cease to think of Your salvation as easy – by applying diligence towards Your Holy script. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Climate Change” G. Ward

 

Psalm 119:18 Open my eyes, that I may behold Wonderful things from Your Law.

 

Whether we as believers will realize it or not, Christianity is under attack and here’s how: Many are inclined to more believe that a varied message can co-exist with the eternal script God provided, even believing that there are contradictions therein, along with suggesting man wrote it and whereas our Lord used many authors to pen all HE’D say, other manuscripts have some level of error, through intelligible, but educated guessing primarily. Moreover, anything historical for this era is considered antiquated/irrelevant and verbally incited as something they would have changed (as if people of old had no militance).

Our continual exposure to what perceivably is a world with many truths and our listening to these speculations at a continuum can/will disallow our Lord’s Final Say So from being heard. So, you and me must distance ourselves from messaging harmful to our destiny, and insist on being in it, but not of it.

 

And Lord God, Your Word has continued throughout every generation of man as precedent for living. Mankind’s rebellion cannot add a cubit to our lives, nor grant an eternity with You, so may we find Your Holy Script as more than enough and vital to our existence in this weary land with ever-evolving truths, that are not truth at all. May more of Your Holy Script become our demand in/through every spectrum of our journey to be more like Christ our Redeemer, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Anticipating Sunday Morning” G. Ward

Hebrews 3: ¹³ But encourage one another every day, as long as it is still called “today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Our era is witness to great criticism of Christian institutions at large, namely because of gross spiritual malfeasance found with few among the other 400,000 worship halls. This unrightful critique is mostly responsible unto defensive mechanisms shared, in why they’re not involved in a local fellowship and besides that, they’re not going to give all these greedy preachers their money syndrome. The Word of God grants us many warnings with such attitudes. The fellowship of faith, seeks to mature in God’s Word together, enabling a desired holiness to manifest in all we’ll do; particularly in view of HIS mercies presented and when we’ll fall short of extending rightful honor to our King, another involved in that same fellowship - kindly and gratefully restores us to the Way we desired at what was the peak in belief. They do so, very gently, for they know their own time of needful restoration may be near (*Gal.6:1-3). That’s why I don’t miss…

 

Lord God, we thank You for building Your church and allowing us to be part of that original plan. Many castigations of hypocrisy have become the tag of Your church, so, we must remember to honor You with faithfulness, because the same was given our Savior who walked perfectly. May our perseverance in You be evidenced among many for Your glory, as we thank Thee for the fellowship. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

 

Today’s Thought “Life’s Balance Sheet” G. Ward

 

Philippians 3: ⁷ But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. ⁸ More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ,

 

The Apostle Paul demonstrably signifies that an old life in religious superiority, including being esteemed by man and being deemed highest in greatest intellect for his era by his compatriots, along with birthed impeccably a Jew. His new life however, given him by Christ, unfolded a personal relationship with One he’d oppose; for his zeal for Holy God, never considered this Jesus as ultimate hope for divine redemption and whereas our Savior looked beyond his faults, his spiritual question of “what would Thou have me to do” re-birthed one of God’s greatest servants. Thereafter, all he’d be inspired by the Almighty to write for the churches would embody that all human effort and worldly accolades are absolutely worthless when placed side-by-side with the majesty and grace of knowing Jesus.

May we all assess what is profitable, that is our Savior knowing us, to then honor Himself in using us for HIS glory; for everything outside that reality is loss.

And Lord God, it’s truly good to know how You used bad characters to unfold that nothing is too difficult for You and because You called out our disobedience through all Christ offered, our new desire is an aim in blamelessness, that is to deny any portion of deceitfulness, by personal conveyance in how Your yoke remains easy, by casting all our cares towards Your unlimited capacity to forgive and restore us where every point of slippage may exist. For all we desire is to bless Your Holy Name, through Jesus, Amen.  

 

Today’s Thought “250 Years: Ageless Forgetfulness” G. Ward

Jeremiah 29

 ⁷ Seek the prosperity of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord in its behalf; for in its prosperity will be your prosperity.

 

Whereas the Prophet Jeremiah spoke on behalf of the Almighty and in no way meant for these exiled, to become so entirely enamored with any land (while away from their homeland), there was that elephant in the room that should have compelled their recall in what landed them in such a strange land(?). God sent HIS people into exile primarily as a punishment for their sins, particularly idolatry and disobedience. Surely, humility to know of a consequence of such reprehensible behavior surfaced in their mindsets? The Prophet Isaiah shared how Israel was chosen for no apparent reason, but solely through God’s Sovereignty, He’d demand HIS people invite other nations to also address HIM, their Creator rightfully (*Isa.49:6).

The Unchanging LORD, is yet calling HIS own; those of us who proclaim HIM – Lord, while existing in this temporary place, awaiting home. So, we must guard our citizenship in Heaven through obedience. May the beginning of this week be revived in you, so the embodiment of Christ righteousness would be the view from any of your encounters; for this is a reasonable endeavor in view of our Lord’s grace and mercy towards you and me.

And Lord God, may our humility rise to understand Your faithfulness calls us to be entirely sacrificial and selfless; for we cannot receive such a gift (through Christ) to then refuse to throw Your lifeline to another needing rescuing. Failure, Lord God, to do what was commanded directly following our Lord’s resurrection remains the chieftain of violations, so we seek Your forgiveness and restoration, thanking You for enabling our soul’s revival through Christ, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Bombastic Partying” G. Ward

 

Amos 5: ²¹ “I hate, I reject your festivals, Nor do I delight in your festive assemblies.

 

The Prophet Amos, God’s confrontational specialist, would even be less popular than ever as he’d reveal the Almighty’s perspective on religious festivals, along with what appeared to be great worship of sorts. HE Alone would see their hearts of disobedience, injustice and oppression towards their fellow man. America won’t go long without such celebratory regard in the same. We love to party, but forget Who’s at watch. It appears we’ve not improved much over the centuries. We can be equally contemptuous in how we correlate to Holy God, mostly as we’ll need HIM, forgetting the intensive price our Savior paid - so costly. I’d encourage each of you to not look at what others are doing wrong when hearing such, but to look within to see where you’re falling short and beg our Lord’s pardon and live accordingly.

 

Father God, Your patience with love is remarkable! May our awakening involve great reflection in how good You’ve been to us and leave out so much word service and offer internal exchange that witnesses Your will found in Your Word and make ourselves available to it, through peace with hospitality, even to those seemingly undeserving – particularly since our Lord Jesus gave His all, that we’d be HIS vessels, useful and productive. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Grandmother’s Hug” G. Ward

 

Psalm 46:10

“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

 

This verse is part of a song that assures any to know that God’s plans won’t be thwarted and while many wait on explanation in why perfect environments don’t exist, neglect to investigate the chronicles of God, perhaps in their estimation would take far too long. Moreover, whatever any will say regarding troubles in my way, won’t ever satisfy – for we’ve been taught to not entertain pain of sorts, versus the spirit of endurance that trusts in the LORD.

The American way (in such estimation aforementioned), forgets HE is still loving the world and whereas many inhabitants, from numerous regions awakened to another day without clean drinking water, along with not having several breakfast choices, our perceptions in being blessed can certainly be happenstance over endowment from the Holy One; in that, believers are blessed to be a blessing (Ge.12:2, 22:18, Prov.11:25).

 

Father God, our review in Your Truth affords our new captivity to see others exposed in lesser conditions, to thereafter insist on being a partner of Your fellowship that ensures others know of Your care of them won’t depart. May every believer more adjust towards intentional contentment, whether abased or with abundance; particularly as we know You to be our Mighty Shelter in every storm of Life, all because of Jesus. Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Abundant Life” G. Ward

Luke 5: ⁴ Now when He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” ⁵ Simon responded and said, “Master, we worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets.” ⁶ And when they had done this, they caught a great quantity of fish, and their nets began to tear; ⁷ so they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the boats, to the point that they were sinking. ⁸ But when Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!”

 

Whereas to be a fisherman was with comparability of a garbage collector’s perception and some who’ve portrayed both these vocations as less significant, until they desire fish to eat (which was very common to diets then and now), along with great expectation of pick-up for smelly trash accumulation at one’s residence – desperately needing to be retrieved and altogether proves a foolish estimation in who may be worthy to be deemed significant, is as wavering as mankind’s pursuit of happiness.

Simon Peter, prior to Jesus and dependent on such a catch (while perhaps never exposed to anything remotely as what he witnessed), could have paid his bills for a month, along with taking his wife out for fine dining, but was absolutely overwhelmed to have encountered his Perfect Redeemer and thereafter hang his head (without cognition), feeling so unworthy to be in the presence of the Holy One.

Question: Are we too familiar with King Jesus; approaching HIS throne as if we’re so deserving (*Eccl.5:1-2)?

 

Lord God, we’re confident of Your presence, yet reverently in tune to You as Holy and so recognize a need to repent because we’ve been indifferent to Your will that commands us and so we’re determining need for many pauses throughout this Your day provided, that enables knowledge of Your unrelenting presence, along with wisdom exercised to ensure Your will be done. In Jesus Name, Amen. 

 

Today’s Thought “The Grip of Grace” G. Ward

Colossians 1:9

For this reason we also, since the day we heard about it, have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

 

What was the reasoning for so much prayer? It was great commendation to never move away from the purpose of existing after salvation’s experience, that is the joy in being known by the Magnificent Savior-Jesus and knowing that because HE forgave me for my every indiscretion, He will/can do for any. Spiritual commendation in the Word of God is always established on obedience and when/if our desire is to please God and not man, we’re assuredly on the right track. It’s therefore incumbent on any who believe to obey and whereas our Lord has provided the way of escape from death and punishment, compelling us to testify to what HE can do for another, by teaching them HIS commands and not what you’ve done, may your day say yes; not in mouthy expression, but in availability to another in sharing the Truth of His Word?

Father God, we don’t live for the ceremonial award presentation, but in the meditation where You rescued us and we’re guilty of offering great praise without affording another that same expression. So, may we all find another to establish in the foundational fact of Jesus loving them also and give freely that to WHO can/will redeem them - indiscriminate to who they are, as the Spirit changes us into better vessels than days before, in Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “I Shall Not be Moved” G. Ward

 

Deuteronomy 9:1 “Hear, Israel! You are crossing the Jordan today, to go in to dispossess nations greater and mightier than you, cities that are great and fortified to heaven, ² a people who are great and tall, the sons of the Anakim, whom you know and of whom you have heard it said, ‘Who can stand against the sons of Anak?’ 

 

These verses concerned Israel’s inheritance of a Promised Land so very threatening. They’d view (from afar) a people existent in that land with incredible size and strength (Nu.13:25-29) and would naturally doubt their ability to conquer these people; equating Moses’ instruction as insufficient as victims of homelessness against a settled and fortified people. Moreover, they would immediately adjourn to thoughts of lack in military might, versus what v.3 would say (“So be aware today that it is the Lord your God who is crossing over ahead of you as a consuming fire. He will destroy them and He will subdue them before you, so that you may drive them out and eliminate them quickly, just as the Lord has spoken to you.”).

Our Lord’s Sovereign Control remains and our following Christ is synonymous with our travailing in a wilderness experience as strangers in this land, not ours, and whereas it’ll appear so very threatening at times, the “sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Ro.8:18). Our Lord has prepared a Perfect Home for us.

 

Lord God, may our eyes continue to see dimly, for soon the brightest day, shall continue forever and ever and so, we live unto that blessed hope, consumed in Your goodness, and persuading others to persevere in Jesus – although trials persist. For HIS burden remains light. May HE forever be praised, Amen. 

 

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

1 Chronicles 29:11

Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and on the earth; Yours is the dominion, Lord, and You exalt Yourself as head over all.

 

Leadership is compelling, in that it should set a tone for greatest character, perseverance in conviction, along with compassionate care for those we’re responsible unto and whereas King David (like others) experienced periodic lapse in these areas (common to humanity), he’d desire the Lord receive all the glory and honor in/through his every endeavor, although the Almighty disallowed him opportunity to build the Temple, but chose his son Solomon instead (*1 Chron.22:8). David’s sincerity to establish a house for Holy God was more realized, particularly as he’d give generously to such a project without limits (29:2-5) and his exemplary freewill giving, became causation for many (both leaders and commoners) to also embody great generosity.

While we’re compelled not to sound the trumpet when giving (Matt.6:1-4), a generous soul’s efforts will become evident, to prayerfully witness others to exemplify Jesus’ words, “it’s better to give than to receive.”

 

Father God, may we know that while You have no need of anything, sacrificial giving is worship of You. It’s Your generosity that first gave and whereas each of us have been given a kingdom that witnesses Jesus as Lord, may our stewardship increase that ensures others know how You alone are worthy of all praise. May we adjust immediately to our being Your temple in earth, extending every opportunity for others to carry the riches of Your grace wherever we go, In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “The Sheep Gate” G. Ward

Romans 9:15

¹⁵ For He says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whomever I have mercy, and I will show compassion to whomever I show compassion.”

 

The Almighty’s Way is significantly different from ours and we praise for that. Moreover, we’ve been chosen, not because we’ve offered anything (including talent, nor intellect), while assured that our own sins allowed Calvary’s cross; whereby the King of kings, our Savior, gave generously and completely and the Spirit having taught us how the foundation of such grace is marvelously sufficient and we’re feeding each day on that actuality. Each day granted compels us as followers to cease assessing what’s wrong with people made by our Creator, for HE’S shared that dilemma. Our hearts were/are the problem (Jer.17:9-10). HE said they’re desperately wicked and only HE can perform the surgery necessary that obliterates its contamination. Therefore, when we view such spiritual disconnect from any, we should see ourselves, to then share what’s been afforded us (2 Cor.5:16).

 

Father God, You keep us constrained, because our natural capacities lack consistent faithfulness that compels every disciple, Your vessels, to proclaim the portion giving us victory and that distribution must never determine another’s worthiness, for ALL fall short. So, may our gratefulness, more celebrate Your shelter from arrogance to mercy – through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Asleep and Missed the Bus” G. Ward

Revelation 21:2-4

And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among the people, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”

 

The imagery written for the believer’s joy, while in a strange land exists for our meditations that leads to gratefulness in activity. We must never cease striving to praise our Lord for HIS great preparation long ago that included you and me. To know of such a perfect, eternal abode where sorrows will be extinguished by permanent joy and peace, anticipates rightly – as a song of old exists that invites any, by asking, “Don’t You Want to go to that Land, Where I’m bound?”

 

Father God, Your orchestration of the final ceremony of redemption provided by Christ is with incredible splendor, while desirous of mankind’s surrender to King Jesus; even appointing us, Your church, as carriers of Truth and causing our heads to hang low through interrogative observation in not having been our best, yet understanding the day given is young and You keep providing breath. So, may we rise to witness Your will being done – ALL because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “School is Out for the Summer?” G. Ward

Acts 17:2

And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures.

 

The Apostle Paul epitomizes how routineness becomes intentional when a heart desires to celebrate its KING. His past life involved a vicious way towards religion at any expense when some failed to observe on his terms – but upon being confronted by our Lord, who would change his heart, he’d devote himself to his Redeemer’s Way. We’d all do well to more remember who brought us from a vicious cycle of life once lived unto a freedom in Christ worthy to share; but if we think we can serve God, without serving His potential people; particularly that to which eagerly wait on a next motivational speech to spur my praise and to then think that’s enough, we’re deceiving ourselves. Instead, we must be willing to break our routine; because people need other people who know the LORD.

While the Word of God won’t explicitly say "break your routine," it does encourage transforming your mindset and breaking free from negative cycles; even highlighting the importance of aligning our lives with God's will, which may require adjusting our habits and routines. While routine can be beneficial for discipline and spiritual growth, it can also become a barrier if it leads to stagnation or complacency.

 

And Lord God our desire is to serve You, and while we heard that it’s impossible to do so without serving others, may we all be resolute towards Your command to teach others how to correlate with Your instructions in a world oblivious of Your regard, yet needing a witness and may our lethargy become proactive in desire to make Christ known with newest intentionality, because HE lives, Amen.

 

 

Today’s Thought “Walking the Mile” G. Ward

 

2 Corinthians 4: ¹⁶ Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer person is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷ For our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, ¹⁸ while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

 

Chapter 4 at 2 Corinthians should be a holy mantra for every believer; to administer all things endeavored for the glory of God. To bring honor to His Name via a perfect representation of His Word. A pragmatist is one who offers some level of practical application to life’s difficulties and he’ll often do so through a softening of potential blows this world dispenses and whereas believers are never called to mix their own ideas with the Supremacy of God’s Word, our message given by Him can offend the hearer’s expectations; but you must proclaim HIM sufficient to guide anyway. At verse 16 it promotes the greatest understanding is to know our time in earth is very short and to reach that holy destination prepared for you and me, must come under a proposed practice of now – so a blessed assurance that our Lord is our God exists now.

And Father God, we seek to ready ourselves through obeisance through Your commands and identify with Your changing us as we grow stronger in knowledge in where the Only Truth exists – in Your Word. May each of us represented on this line search out the magnitude of that love for the remainder of this week, for Your glory and through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Spiritual Meat and Potatoes” G. Ward

 

Psalm 1: ² But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law he meditates day and night.

 

While spiritual slumps exist in believers, they should be periodic, but not as some have supposed, that is years. Followers of Christ must consider all the tender mercies provided, doing so intentionally; by breaking routine that allows a “quiet time” with a passage or more (with every electronic device off) to know it’s God’s Word and therefore HIM talking to us. If your meditations take you to an issue of adultery and you’re not married and deem it impertinent, you’re wrong; for an adulterate spirit can be found in any and requires devotion to Christ and HIS church. Moreover, if one is selective in that quiet pursuit, that is, only desirous of those melodic themes so inspiring, yet refusing correction, it can be synonymous with a daily plan of cake and ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner; to thereafter witness health woes and tremendous increase on girth. Instead, one should endeavor the whole counsel and rejoice that Holy God is desirous to have a love relationship with us.

 

Father God, our delight is knowing You as remarkably loving and patient with us; so much so, that when we turn from You, by leading ourselves, You generously hear our repentance with open arms. So, we thank You for such comfort with perfect guidance that warrants our daily, intentional pursuit. Your yoke remains easy and Your burden light, so we lean on Your wisdom and power, that guides graciously and mercifully, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Camping, Without A Tent” G. Ward

Psalm 119:105

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

 

Imagine on today that you’re stranded in a forest environment and whereas you began that venture to find city lights before dark, darkness suddenly overwhelms you. Perhaps immediate thoughts establish how I should have grabbed a long branch of sorts becomes vivid, but you didn’t - so what was aggressive walking beforehand, becomes very short steps with arms extended, along with great fear of nocturnal reptiles, mountain lions and bears ahead captivates your soul(?). Moreover, it’s cool now and you’re needing a wrap that enables warmth(?). Altogether, this is indicative of what the Lord invites us to know about the dark world we reside in. It’s full of dangers (seen and unseen) and what appears to be light is just a mirage; for the shiny things are mere allusion that never satisfies. More than that, and for the believer, earth is not home; so, wherever we venture, it’s strange territory and if we come to our senses, we’ll know how our Lord provides HIS Light in us to discern the rightful path in such perilous times.

So, Lord God, we thank You for such a reminder – that regards You as our Only Blessed Hope in every matter of Life. May we allow the perfect spiritual illumination You provide to shine on others not fully surrendered to You; so, their pathway is made clear that insists apart from Christ we aren’t successful. May we say yes to Your guidance, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “We’d Be Better Off Without Him?” G. Ward

 

Romans 12: ¹⁴ Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵ Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

 

To live as Christ walked, won’t ever move quickly to retribution, but will evaluate mercy provided by the Only Excellent One (Jas.2:13). Moreover, and as many lack exposure to regard all men as applicable for all Christ endeavored in earth to Heaven, realizes, as time unfolded how we were chosen to belong to HIM and whereas many doubted our potential love relationship with HIM, we rejoice; knowing however, we’re not deserving. The role of the believer is said to be peculiar one for this reason (John 13:34-35). We must exemplify greatest appreciation for this unmerited gift, by persuading others (even those awakening to plots filled with hatred). For many included in the Holy Script were such; yet invited in the heavenlies (Eph.1:20-21). We, therefore, should never rejoice when those presumed to belong to Holy God fall to misery or demise. For our Lord Jesus would be exposed to great multitudes, seeing the vastness of wrongful opinions existent in many that would forsake an eternity meant in favorability and utterly weep, for they appeared “like sheep without (HIM as) Shepherd” (Matt.9:36-37).

 

Father God, we stand in awe of how uniquely Excellent is Your Way and whereas ours wrongfully hoard recall for some violating greatest character, we now remember what it took for our Lord Jesus to redeem our own soul; for we were part of those multitudes, but were yet picked out for no contribution of goodness, but solely for Your purpose. We bow on this day, to say we Love Thee generously, asking You to send us, because of Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Remembering the Music and Not the Message” G. Ward

 

1 Corinthians 1:10

Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.

 

Unity was/is the intent for Christ church; not an energy for HIS universal church as we suppose for this verse, but meant for the local fellowship concerning clear Truth, that is, the doctrine presented by Holy God unto mankind that says and does the same. For most fellowships and because so many are enamored with achieving more members than more Truth partial doctrine purported, delivers unbelief. The many self-appointed shepherds for God’s house fail to equip congregants for the work of ministry – by allowing programming to usurp what’s written. Instead, a proposed redemption of sin through Christ should encompass every message presented and disallow false motivations to eclipse repentant hearts that admit to godly sorrow. Moreover, there’s no need to travel onto a convenience store for participating in a lottery, just wait until Sunday morning; because the dividend is greater there and stated eloquently as absolute from pulpits (i.e., give generously and watch it multiply hundred-fold theorizing). *Without sound doctrine, beliefs and practices can drift into what is right in a person's own eyes rather than what is aligned with God's will.

And Lord God the chieftain of responsibility for every believer is to know Truth and we’ve witnessed Your command to be discipled as absolute, yet, many reduce Your will to words from their mouths that echo how Great You are and even that’s limited to a presumed favorability that denies anything negative. Father God, we pray spiritual endurance for every congregation embracing Your entire script, taught without manipulation; while keeping Jesus, our Lord, as the Sole Object of our faith. To HIM be ALL the glory! Amen.

 

 

Today’s Thought “They’re All A Bunch of Hypocrites!” G. Ward

 

Proverbs 27: ¹⁷ As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

 

Contrary to popular belief insisting on “opposites attract,” truly they ultimately repel. However, when common belief enters conversation, it craves more presence from the other side of dialogue and whereas our Lord’s illustrations of such is numerous, commanding any who’ve placed their faith in Christ to only link oneself (intimately and with vulnerable behavior) with those of like faith, it squashes indifference, so argumentative.

The joy of belonging to a spiritual fellowship is what I crave, because I’m then amidst many suffering by imperfection plaguing them (yet know it), even daily so, compelling encouragement not found in the marketplace by mere, polite salutations among many, who don’t desire walking alongside me when/if I share my trials and if they’ll answer, the hope given can be so profoundly temporal, even allowing a short escape from my miseries, and while that help was appreciated, my prior grief will surface once again, and appearing to then embody a multiplied misery.

 

And Lord God, You’ve demanded, we who believe, gather together on the premise of Your Word as a Perfect Guide; and when we encounter another believer weak, that we’d encourage the disheartened towards knowing of Your ongoing presence as inescapable. So, we run to You, for You created fellowship, indicative of Your loving us to the end. We pray that any praying would adjust immediately, by paying attention to other’s vulnerabilities and decide by patience and love to restore them unto the salvation You began in them, through Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Playground Bully” G. Ward

 

1 Chronicles 4:10

¹⁰ Now Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that You would greatly bless me and extend my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from harm so that it would not hurt me!” And God brought about what he requested.

 

Nothing has changed much in thousands of years past regarding the heart of man. Our Father in Heaven has determined our hearts as “desperately wicked” (Jer.17:9), meaning, at its core, our hearts are incurably diseased and beyond human repair and whereas Jeremiah was given additional words from the Almighty after such a verse to impose on every reader to know – HE Alone is that Great Physician with the ONLY cure – followers of Christ for this generation praise HIM.

Our theme on today, concerns understanding very little about this young man said to be more honorable than his siblings. He wasn’t perfect, but devoted to praying. His mother bore him in pain and his name given indicates just that. Can you imagine his mother calling him in for supper at 6 o’clock – “PAIN, come inside for dinner!” (?) Now if hearts have been contaminated with great sinfulness, even from Jabez’s time, do you think there was incessant teasing in the same way as our day? Of course there was. Jabez praying would ask that God would “enlarge his territory” and that may have meant moving away from the usual, to be most effective a warrior for the Almighty in places and spaces whereby others didn’t know him so well and whereas this is now received as an opportunity in making this relative to material blessings, our desperate hearts prevail in missing the mark.

 

Our Father in Heaven, best reverence is due Your Name and many times and, in many ways, we’ve been guilty in misunderstanding how our Savior would say, we as servants are no greater than our Maker and if HE endured greatest persecution while in earth for our deliverance, we should offer ourselves more sacrificially. Thank You for slowing us down each day, as we pursue Your Word that leads us in every territory, so as to proclaim YOU Wonderful! In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “Spiritual Pageant; Where All Win” G. Ward

 

Hebrews 6:10

For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, by having served and by still serving the saints.

 

While many like me, are chosen of God like you (Eph.1:4-6), for no apparent reason and having made unproductivity our necklace for years before placing our faith in Christ, we now work in ensuring others – they too may have a love relationship with the Almighty through all our Savior provided. It’s clear, particularly as we engage God’s Word appropriately, that who HE’S used as carriers of HIS Truth experienced tremendous, periodic, moral lapse; signifying our Father will have mercy on whom HE chooses, for HIS glory and whereas mankind (in a predominant sense), can be insistent on categorizing who may be useful, in accordance to a presumable, nearly perfect background, coming to Jesus is very opposite; and will soon witness a complete makeover, internally (2 Cor.5:17) – designating the old as ineffectual. We now are able to rejoice in this day, knowing our Savior’s work through us, began from HIS drawing us to such a magnificent presence from the only Throne able to completely reconcile our sins and keep us from an old life in futility.

 

Lord God, our thankfulness as dispensers of Your Truth is the ultimate, ongoing honorarium worthy of our highest praise. We pray that the many who’ve identified with all Christ exemplified in earth onto Heaven, imitates that life and are inspired with great intentionality to find another doubting and then allow Your breath in us, to assure them of Your love as incomparable to any other. For Your mercy is truly from everlasting! We pray through/in Jesus, Amen.

 

Today’s Thought “A Believer’s Lethargy” G. Ward

 

1 John 5: ¹⁰ The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself; the one who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son.

 

A continued reliance on matters of faith in Christ is more needed than ever before. Dispensationalists from everywhere are being heard through podcasts and social media outlets at a moment’s notice, dispelling inaccuracies of God’s Word, primarily based on divisive setbacks from some, and rather than cling to the Old Rugged Cross – so entirely indiscriminate, many are passionately desirous for social and political reform, so much so to question if God Himself really cares(?). Moreover, if you ask the one frustrated with the ways of man (even while they blame God), they’ll share how they believe in the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus and whereas the testimony spoken of in our theme is an unwavering, internal assurance, it’s many times missing the element of passionate love to witness another knowing HIM as we do.

 

Father God, we need to be revived in the Truth of Your Word, well enough to be Your ambassadors that remembers the spiritual blessings You provide, should be intentionally seeking out others with a campaign of our Greatest Hero – Jesus. May every follower’s silence be ashamed in view of all our Redeemer provided, to now loudly proclaim HE is LORD, squashing every device, outside HIS reign and rule. Amen.

 

 

Today’s Thought “Ain’t Understanding Mellow?” G. Ward

 

Psalm 139:13-14

For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.

 

While the giraffe was/is created extremely tall and from the beginning eats from the treetops and apple trees continue bearing apples versus oranges. Humankind however, God’s highest creation, blessed with higher intelligence and familiar with the first two created, particularly how they forsook perfect governance from their Maker and caused a reverberate mess unto generations to follow. Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, being understood by what has been made, so that they are without excuse.”  Therefore, every man, regardless of devout faith, or little to no faith, can fail in perfect acknowledgement of the Almighty’s wonder-working power, but need to know – ALL are being held responsible for such lack to honor HIS Supremacy.

 

Father God, those of us regarded as Your very own, maintain confidence that You selected us, not because we’ve been good, but because of some whose faith rested on Your Omnipotence. May we on this day, re-examine our being awesomely and wonderfully made by You - our Great King, and carry forth in the generosity of Your guidance, that absolutely leaves the old life behind, proclaiming YOU as Sufficient, needing no other works, rituals or philosophies from mere men – All because of Jesus, Amen.