Today’s Thought “Boundless” G. Ward

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” 2 Peter 3:8

 

More attempts towards relevancy have precluded that messaging before our time currently, though good for then, is impossible in reception currently. The presumption of this notion proposes this modern society beholds a new humanity (i.e. a people of greater aptitude vs. those of us challenged in brilliance, LOL). The actuality of mankind is best articulated by King Solomon, “So I turned to consider wisdom, madness and folly; for what will the man do who will come after the king except what has already been done” (Eccl.2:12)? Solomon was expressive of being blessed with riches and superior wisdom, enjoining his kingly status alongside of Holy God’s. When he was confronted with the brevity of life and its futile attempt in self sufficiency, his word identifying this erroneous state was “vanity.”

Our unending, worthless attempts to re-invent the wheel, refuses to do the work that our predecessors endeavored in bringing us thus far. Vintage is not a bad word, but a valuable possession…

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Temporary Fame” G. Ward

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” Proverbs 19:21

Okay, Kim Davis (Rowan County, KY. Clerk) you’re free, Now what? Do you return to your non-political civic service (through an electoral process) to then deny signature on marriage licenses to same-sex couples, returning to jail; and if the polygamist clerk in Utah grants signature without interrogation to another active in polygamy, while the orthodox Roman Catholic clerk in Massachusetts denies a divorcee license to marry based on their religious convictions, wouldn’t you question their pursuit (vocationally)?  Moreover, does the Christian accept work at the Playboy Mansion because it’s legitimate and they’re comfortable in personal restraint?

Real conviction is without contemplations in social reformation, and particularly when federal statutes have been enacted (antithetical to your spiritual beliefs). I believe there to be many who come to know the Lord Jesus involved in occupations promoting immorality at their time of transformation to then resign immediately trusting in Holy God’s Providence (I’ve witnessed that very personally). Perhaps Sister Davis’ $80,000 salary obscures better judgment?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Environmental vs. Pre-destined?” G. Ward

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

 Subjectively, Asians are better at mathematics and left-handed individuals are with a greater capacity in intellect. Many from Asian nations would argue this paradigm as inaccurate due to their personal knowledge of those who have struggled therein and I very personally can admit to strong deficiency in intelligence. All the sociological examinations pursued, enable more defense in why achievement of varied kinds remains impossible. Argument is perpetuated beyond educational pursuits also. Disparity in race, socio-economic classes and gender demand interrogative studies vs. personal responsibility in ensuring that whatever tag is rendered man, further divisiveness is the outcome. I know there to be an interrogation that will always seek to invade on Holy God’s Sovereignty and absolutely no statistical gathering from any scientist is with prudence. It’s positively inexplicable!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Convenient Jurisprudence” G. Ward

“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Romans 13:1

The Jews of Jesus’ day knew a burden in unfair taxation. Their rates demanded (in modern day terms) that almost a quarter from every dollar generated be given for a host of events and support. This design was imposed on man by Holy God initially. We know it as a tithe, which was the same as taxation (cf. Nu.18:30, Deut. 12:6-17, 14:28). Jesus’ resolve with such indifference (i.e. governmental, social, etc.) is/was astounding. He simply demanded government regulations be followed while simultaneously and most preeminently following Holy God’s command. Our reality of earthen regulations understands it as diametrical to God’s words; His is infinite wisdom. Rules from man are ever evolving, selfishly suiting the needs of the insatiably driven. I’m troubled in the presentation of moral and sociological ills as a nuance for our time.

Like the County Clerk in Kentucky, I too oppose same sex marriage; but as a county clerk, did you consider refusing those who were blatant fornicators prior to marriage? As a pastor, I’ve been exposed to many who persist in behaviors antithetical to God’s word (and yes, they’ve called me pastor), but those are not the sheep of the true Shepherd, nor can they serve in leadership at His place of worship. You’re not allowed opportunity to exercise in Holy God’s mandates by picking and choosing only those personal abhorrent realities; signing off on any transgression, transgresses (take your time with that one…). If I were that county clerk I would have resigned my position when the Supreme Court decision was made…

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Where Your Treasure Is…” G. Ward

But when you present the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you present the lame and sick, is it not evil? Why not offer it to your governor? Would he be pleased with you? Or would he receive you kindly?” says the Lord of hosts. Malachi 1:8

Bad planning and improper rest is a negative contributor to proprietary consideration (equally so) for everyone. Many are tirelessly available occupationally, while taking their family for granted. In other terms they’re personally instrumental in producing tremendous corporate gains without cognizance of their own eroding family values.

There is no presumed metamorphosis that enables time to manufacture a proper prioritizing of work and family; it takes a concerted effort. For some that have juxtaposed “possibility thinking” in same ethical behavior personified everywhere, you owe better availability to your inquiry (e.g. “How are you doing?”) unto another (Ro.15:1). “No man is an island…”

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Out of Bounds” G. Ward

“But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4

Ministers of the gospel in Christ are said to first be human, then pastor-teacher. The words from God on the other hand, demand preeminence (unto God) from every believer, very particularly those responsible for the “household of faith.” I’m confounded in witnessing such social advocacy as this generation is experiencing. Advocacy altogether is with a component of proven resolve. This may mean injustice perceived is rightfully exposed causing a forced reconciliation from an oppressor. Social advocacy then for ministers of the gospel must first understand that injustice among men is thousands of years old, to see very little resolve. Disparities (of many kinds) are as rampant as ever. If I’m a promulgator of “Truth” neglecting that blessed message of reconciliation first, what am I saying when I devote as much or more time to any advocacy over a proven resolve that Jesus can save the worst oppressor causing greater continuity among men until we all see HIM face to face?

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Old School” G. Ward

“Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart.” Ephesians 5:19

The inauthenticity in varied art forms today is commonplace.  I believe it’s indicative of selfish motive and the expediency in aspiration towards notoriety among men. Artists of old endeavored their craft mostly for the love in that particular art form. The prowess of the modern artist is diminished when he fails to operate in the recesses of his own soul.

Ultimately, if more would seek to identify impacting another without an implication of fame, it would be best felt (appreciated) when personal conviction is authentic and the reproduction from the recipient won’t consider their craft as less, but just gives freely because another cared to share…

Happy Tuesday!