Today’s Thought “The Ugly Duckling Becomes a Swan” G. Ward

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” Psalm 103:2

Analyzing the benefits in doing should ultimately ask how my endeavors can/will exalt my Lord’s agenda vs. my own. While energies to mingle with the less desired (i.e. the abusive and presumptive behaviors) may seemingly have merit, our being light unto the darkness of their insistence diminishes (cf. Mt.5:16). Moreover, our advocacy must remember the most excellent message in prudence will always supersede our persuasive words; so stick with the script, embracing my spiritual influence not in momentary measurement of infused success, but preparing for the marathon in great care in guidance with the victim of rebellion, soon labeled a saint (Mt.28:19).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Last Words” G. Ward

“My son, give attention to my wisdom, Incline your ear to my understanding; that you may observe discretion and your lips may reserve knowledge.” Proverbs 5:1-2

Salutations upon encountering anyone is the professional precedent to beginning needed conversation. These greetings and the lack therein may however quickly become miniscule against observations, persuasions and castigations inferred from my discourse unto any. Furthermore, all my inferences may appear with un-needed condemnation that has the receiver forever avoiding future conversations with me. More important to adopt is humility with empathy that recalls one’s own receptivity unto words authoritatively produced, then approach respectively.

The gospel is without transcendence and the reason many remain abhorrent towards it is because there’s no “good news” in the portrayal of many who deem themselves successful at most, while identifying knowing HIM, whereby HE chose to die for their sins also. Therefore, admittance first, to my falling short, then proceeding with perfect resolution with graciousness must follow.

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “A Well Run Dry” G. Ward

“You have ordained Your precepts, that we should keep them diligently.” Psalm 119:4

In your estimation, how long have you known the Lord? Knowing carries a connotation of pursuit of Him so very intimate that refusal unto one’s own way is entirely uncomfortable (cf. Mt.4:1-11). Moreover the believer’s resolution for life matters begins and ends with the precepts found solely in Holy God’s word.

Rather than an answer to the prefacing question, there ought to be personal interrogation in who I rely on the most and with utter transparency approach the throne where mercy exists, never to waiver from the issue of vitality that questions do I know the Master on His terms or my own? If the latter is with any percentage, unrighteousness is without inheritance.

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “A Sense of Urgency” G. Ward

“Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.” Romans 13:11

I’m contemplating a great song not sung enough in our local churches, whereby its refrain insists, “Let your light shine, there may be someone down in the valley trying to get home.”  Categorization of who this someone may be should never stem from who we deem appropriate for such a gift of grace, but should regard the neighbor as any we have contact with. Our theme seeks to remind us of a short impact (i.e. span) we have to prove our faith or perpetuate spiritual apathy. As many are works in progress, never forget this as your personal position also (cf.Eph.6:12).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “Turning Point” G. Ward

“And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” Matthew 6:27

Calamity and destruction of sorts maintain that many who disregard religion in times of peace, the fortitude to call on the only Name truly offering solace; Jesus (Jn.14:27). The call however, no matter the volume or length lacks assurance when called upon without familiarity; becoming no different than wishing upon a star (Pr.1:24-29). While the Most High’s pursuit of man visits every generation, the love message it portrays doesn’t seek to rest therein momentarily, but grants a transformation unto any (Ro.10:13) whereby shelter from storm(s) is assuredly comfort sought.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “The Disgrace in Concession” G. Ward

“So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach.” Hebrews 13:13

The struggle in adoption of wavering opinions that competes within our own psyche can be squashed; particularly when we’ve determined to live by the commands of Holy God found in His words. Our indecisiveness (lack of immediate conformity) can ultimately reveal a superficial waiting that translates unbelief (i.e. HE’S already spoken – 2 Ti.3:16-17). While faith may be difficult, Truth, is easy (*Mt.11:29).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Long Way Home” G. Ward

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8

My Dad was an excellent story teller. The basic storyline generally contained truth, but most certainly he would include some hyperbole. He once shared how he and his bride set forth to take a drive to the west. Indifferent from flying to this excursion, this trip would include numerous days travel. He began this trip extremely tired, driving hundreds of miles to view his bride sleeping through most of the scenic views they both anticipated together in the planning stages. His ultimate frustrations awakened her as concession to his exhaustion. Her compliance was immediate, so he pulled over on the interstate. His deep slumber was comparable to that of a Sahara Desert experience after endeavoring miles of walking to then encounter a mass of water. He awakened to the condensation of the car’s window, un-sure as to their whereabouts, yet appearing to be a rest area. His consideration viewed his bride sleeping peaceably, so he exited quietly to visit the lavatory. Upon encountering the fresh air and exiting the lavatory, he encountered the illustrious map on the wall indicating “You Are Here.” It happened to be the very first rest area to the time he relinquished custody of the wheel before deep sleep. My Dad served 25 years for the murder of his bride (just kidding).

The slumber of ordinary estimations to what life ought to present can become the eternal disconnect that reveals the road was never long (cf. Ps.90:10-12). Moreover, Our Father as the landowner, always and assuredly invites you (the sojourner) to come home (Jn.14:1-3).

Happy Friday!