Today’s Thought Effective and Productive G.Ward

”Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; ⁵ because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel

⁶ which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth.” Colossians 1:4-6

Encouragement is as it appears; the act of putting courage in someone. According to the grace shown us, it seems this would be easy to do. We however are bombarded with worldly contaminants that more exact caring for me and mine. Although our aim is heaven, our unpreparedness is exacerbated by our selfish pleas for instant gratification from Holy God as if He is our servant. The perpetuation of this, more than suggests that the pursuit of the Master’s way has been neglected (cf.Mt.6:21).

Encouragement demands that the promulgator remind the depressed to begin as if they’ve never fallen (cf. Ps.118:24, Php.3:12-13). Furthermore, it (encouragement, from the encourager) offers himself in the same way a splint enables a fractured limb functionality; it holds the victim of despair until one is able to endure, never to remind them of the mortal sacrifice given, but the ultimate sacrifice made.

O how He loves you and me
O how He loves you and me
He gave His life, what more could He give? 

O how He loves you
O how He loves me
O how He loves you and me 

Jesus to Calvary did go
His love for mankind to show
What He did there brought hope from despair

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought Riding On A Donkey or Elephant… G. Ward

“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” Psalm 127:1

The definition of politics by Gregory Ward: It’s an ability to deceive some (particularly in a Democratic society) into believing that an individual is with a necessary fortitude to unilaterally enact (impose legally) their own philosophy unto the citizenry in their municipality, state or country.

Howbeit that upon ingesting (educationally) the depth of government with checks and balances, that Americans exposed to trillions of dollars indebtedness (for more than 8 years) can contemplate exoneration of such in even 20 years vs. a potential 8? Moreover, for conservatisms’ loquaciousness to demand  the overturn of Roe v. Wade (410 U.S. 113 (1973), is a landmark decision by the United States Supreme Court on the issue of abortion) without any prompting from varied legislators, particularly when in the majority (congressionally- Both Republican majorities in the House and Senate were held until the Democrats regained control in the mid-term elections of 2006.) epitomizes the essence of being a hoax. While liberals state incessantly, they’re the party for social reform and greater advocacy across socio-economic barriers, promoting better economic and educational prowess; and when their opportunity presented itself, little changed. Furthermore, morality was severely marred (President Clinton’s mishap = Monica Lewinsky) for many who now are more familiar in manipulating phraseology for their own benefit.

Ultimately, it makes me no difference as to what animal you ride on. I will however encourage you to  vote Chicago Style (Vote early and vote often carries a corrupt connotation, associated with the time used in relation to the activities of organized crime figures in Chicago.). Finally, remember King’s Solomon admonishing that strongly suggests no politician, nor anything can be ultimately fulfilling unless emanating from the Lord. Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought Absolute Recall G. Ward

“My son, do not forget my teaching,
    but keep my commands in your heart,
for they will prolong your life many years    and bring you peace and prosperity.” Proverbs 3:1-2

May I impose a homework assignment on you that will aid in implementing the passage above? Regardless, you know I’ll do it because it’s my letter and if you say no, I’ll certainly not be embittered at your blatant rebellion, but will tell Holy God of your refusal (Lol).

Autumn is a perfect season in replicating God’s recompense towards man. The trees, very particularly are shedding their leaves in great numbers, while some remain, yet turning magnificent shades of yellow, gold and orange. The cool weather enables a reverse metamorphosis that reveals branches we didn’t see in late spring and summer. The appearance of lack of life is perceived in this season, yet that’s my argument for the similarity in God’s recompense towards man vs. autumn. Allow me a moment to dichotomize the trees vs. believers: Trees appear lifeless in autumn, while the inside still absorbs nutrients and light to enable future growth, awaiting its Maker’s change of weather to then produce more fruit (i.e. leaves, fruit, etc.). Man, is the same. He then can appear insignificant (i.e. lifeless, unproductive, etc.), while the inside is the better determinant (cf. 1 Sa.16:7), because His Maker is also His Source. Unlike the trees, man can/will forget the source of his supply and attempt growing on his own. The great thing about his Maker is His being faithful in His love towards man, always identifying with His creation’s repentance enough to save him from dying.

Back to the homework assignment; before next week, take a long walk in a park (preferably with a walking trail) and observe the trees, remembering this letter, while thanking Holy God for His excellent Gift – Jesus! Happy Thursday! 

Today’s Thought Confidence Where There Should be None G. Ward

 “For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins.” Hebrews 10:26

I love the game show, Jeopardy. Strangely, the answers are given by the host and it then becomes the responsibility of the contestant to propose completion of the trial with a question. There is often a disquieted spirit both on the show and in the room you’re in as brainiacs seek to win. I’m certain that with this game of chance study guides are given in advance so that the process of hypotheses is rendered fairly. Even so, one’s testing skill has to be superior. Jeopardy’s contestants can’t/should be ordinary Joe’s. Their intellect must be exposed to a plethora of subject matter, or just consider Wheel of Fortune.

Unlike games of chance, it doesn’t take individuals testing at superior levels to understand that Holy God’s love for them is without intellectual barriers; even idiots like me can identify with Christ sufficiency over man’s inadequacy. Although appearances may declare some as winners over others in the earth, there is but one status for man (“Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Heb.11:6). Be very careful with your exegesis of the Hebrew writer’s letter for the church at chapter 10. It doesn’t promote a theology of some having a potential towards sinless-ness; particularly the kind that blatantly violates to never be regarded again by Holy God. Throughout the chapter and in the first verses of this chapter, he synopsizes the entire letter synonymous with how Jeopardy invites guest’s participation (the answer comes first):”The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. If it could, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Heb.10:1-4).

Because of this, don’t consider sinful regression (willful) in thinking you can establish another way towards redemption (Jn.14:6) other than through the perfect Lamb of God who took away the sins of the world (cf. Jn.1:29)! Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought Insomnia G.Ward

“Because all his days his task is painful and grievous; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 2:23

The Bible are the words from Holy God unto man that is the truest panacea in every life pursuit. Every admonishment is for the benefit of his spiritual and physical well-being. Although we enjoy a new covenant (as compared with the Israelite’s moral and dietary guidelines), I believe reliance from the timeless Author of both (covenants) requires our implicit trust. He made us and knows our functionality without effort.

I’m contemplating the entirety of this because I’ve been alert from 2:30 a.m. I’ve learned not to resist, but to make it a productive time of convening with the Master. Many times I sought various sleep aides like warm milk. Warm milk is said to carry the enzyme tryptophan, which urban legend has it will cause you to sleep (and which is often the talk at Thanksgiving when people drop like flies after a large meal heavy in tryptophan-rich turkey). The truth is that tryptophan is only instrumental in the first phase of your potential sleeping, but can be harmful to deep sleep (as to deprivation) if ingested supplementally. Moreover, you’d have to eat about 40 pounds of turkey this November to feel the effects of tryptophan’s sleeping benefit. Then, there’s that great drink; chamomile tea! Chamomile tea is synonymous with how Aloe Vera was perceived in the 1970’s. Chamomile can be used topically or orally to treat a number of everyday ailments, such as: Insomnia and other sleep disorders, anxiety and panic attacks, muscle twitches, wounds, burns, and scrapes, skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, chickenpox, and diaper rash, stomach problems such as menstrual cramps, stomach flu, and ulcers. *Although scientifically proven as great in these matters of health, please note some of the side effects I copied and pasted below;

As with all herbal products, moderation is the key to avoiding adverse reactions. Some of the potential side effects of chamomile include drowsiness, so use it with caution if you are driving or operating machinery. High doses of chamomile can also cause vomiting and/or skin reactions in some individuals. If you are allergic to ragweed pollen or have hay fever, you may have difficulty using chamomile.

Using chamomile during pregnancy is not recommended, since it is considered to be an abortifacient (a substance that induces abortion). Chamomile is also not recommended if you are currently taking blood thinners, since chamomile contains a substance called coumarin (which is also a blood thinner). HomeRemediesWeb.com Copyright © 2006-2012

Holy God’s prescription is timeless; “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Mt.11:30).

Insomniacs Unite! Decide that today is the day of reckoning! Nothing, but nothing beats good exercise and proper diet. Finally, remember King Solomon’s words (Eccl.2:23) that convey when you’re awakened at night because you’re perplexed and bothered, you take on unnecessary worries and neglect to realize that your Maker is able (cf. Eph.3:20-21)! Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought Profane or Misunderstood? G. Ward

“Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” Ephesians 5:4

Have you ever encountered someone who uses great profanity, yet spoke with tremendous wisdom and compassion (perhaps oxymoronic?)? Could it be that the entirety of their life was filled with parents, aunts and uncles who did the same? Naval Sailors have gotten a horrible rap with the expression, “He/She cusses like a sailor!”

There’s a fellow I know who is dedicated to making a difference in our society, yet through his conveyances some obscenities have invaded our conversations. This gentleman is a retired military veteran (U.S. Marines) with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His gregariousness has him recognizing every attendee of the gym facility to which we are members. His transparency with most is selective, yet somewhat invitational. Although very polite to all, he (upon meeting me) felt a compelling in establishing a brotherhood with me; I too reciprocated. Rather to appear shocked in hearing some vulgarities emanating from his mouth, my first recall was Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Moreover, I also knew that it would serve as an embarrassment for him if I quickly revealed that I am a Pastor. The objective I’m seeking is presenting a more excellent witness that diffuses a notion that I or anyone is with capability in transforming oneself unto righteousness unilateral of Christ’s sufficiency. When contemplating this brother or another please remember, “Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Co.6:11). Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought Christmas Wish G. Ward

“Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” Psalm 27:14

The Christmas season for so many is/was the time of year where extraordinary things and circumstances occurred. Across socio-economic parameters, parents sought to please their children with tremendous presentations of gifts and exotic foods (indicative of the period). Smells, very particularly would permeate the entirety of the house; some rooms would present cinnamon, near the kitchen, baked goods, while even being amidst a dreadful odor of chitterlings cooking (for my Hispanic and Anglo friends, that’s cultural for most Blacks and believe me when I tell you they stunk!).
 The season (when I was a child) lasted an entire two weeks (that’s before and after). We now are exposed to slightly before Thanksgiving sales to after the New Year. The commercialization of it all is serving as a definite distraction to the building up of family because of the stress of having to go to Jared (a popular jewelry store) and the like. The strongest anticipation of the holidays may be the dreaded contingency soon realized; particularly if (like me) money is short. I believe there to be a preparation for us all even before Halloween. We’ve must begin to contemplate the essence of the day, its meaning and a better desired effect. If it’s a celebration of the birth of Jesus, let’s communicate with our immediate and extended families an idea of reciprocity to the Honoree, Jesus our Lord. Preparing everyone in the now, will disable the pressure of later. W.W.J.D. (What Would Jesus Do/Say)? He’s said it already; “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Mt.25:40). Find others less fortunate and stay away from Jared! Happy Thursday!