Cut the Ties That Bind

I’m sure you’ve seen those Chinese finger traps—simple bamboo or plastic tubes into which you insert your index fingers from opposite ends.  The harder you pull to free yourself, the tighter the trap grips your fingers.  Escape seems almost impossible.

As a boy, I also had a pair of toy handcuffs.  When my neighborhood friends and I played cops and robbers, those handcuffs often held tighter than we expected, making it surprisingly difficult to break free.

Sin has a similar grip on a person’s life.  When it overcomes better judgment, it binds the heart and mind, stealing peace and compromising the soul’s sense of comfort and freedom.  The harder we struggle in our own strength, the more tightly its bondage seems to hold us.

True freedom comes only through the born-again experience made possible by Jesus Christ.  Through His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead, He paid the price for our sins and broke the chains of bondage.  He willingly sacrificed His life so that we could be forgiven, redeemed, and set free.

Jesus Christ cuts the ties that bind us.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

 

Does Anyone Care? Am I Wanted?

A pastor whose teaching I sat under for many years once shared a story with the congregation about his mother.  Whenever she was discharged from the hospital, she would say, “I feel so bad I’m going to go eat some worms.”

Sometimes we can find ourselves having a similar “pity party.”  Our minds are prone to wander into dark places where unfounded feelings rear their ugly heads, convincing us that things are far worse than they really are.  While this may seem more common among those with a pessimistic personality, even the most optimistic person can fall into the same line of thinking.

Thoughts such as, “Does anyone care what I’m going through?”  may begin to surface.  If we continue down that path, other discouraging questions can follow: “Am I wanted?”  or “Where do I belong?”

If these thoughts visit you from time to time, I encourage you to take every hurtful thought captive and do as my pastor often reminded us: “Allow God to carry those heavy burdens for you.”

God desires for us to live victoriously, free from the accusations and lies that often originate in the dark recesses of our minds.  Shadows of discouragement can arise without warning, but Jesus speaks peace to our souls when we tune our hearts to His voice of authority.

You may ask, “How do I do this?”  Simply ask Him to open your ears to hear His voice and your eyes to see His grace at work on your behalf.  Then cast your cares upon Him.

As 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”  This is His invitation to every one of us.  Yet it is up to us to accept His help—not only in times of uncertainty, but every day.

Trust the Lord.  As you lean on Him, His strength becomes your strength.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

On the Other Side of Obedience

Scripture tells us, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.”  At its cord, this biblical truth teaches that obedience means listening to God’s voice and choosing to follow Hia commands out of love and trust.  It is far more than simply following rules; it is a wholehearted response to God.

As I see it, obedience is living for God by giving Him what He asks of us—our trust, our loyalty, and our allegiance.  It also includes “presenting your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1).  It is taking up our cross daily and following His ways with willing hearts.

Obedience may also mean stepping into the gap where believers are needed to do God’s work, serving without complaint or rebellion against what He desires for His children.  True obedience is giving God what He actually asks for, knowing that His requests are never unreasonable.

Sacrifice, on the other hand, can sometimes mean trying to give God what we want to offer Him, on our own terms, only to discover later that His way was always the better way.  The prayer of Jesus remains the pattern for every believer: “Not my will, but Yours be done.”  There is no better way to live.

On the other side of obedience are the open arms of Jesus Christ.  There we find His presence, His peace, and His words of approval: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  What greater reward could there be than hearing those words from our Savior?

The other day, I saw a beautiful painting online depicting someone’s interpretation of gentleness.  It portrayed Jesus kneeling with His arms outstretched toward a flock of sheep eagerly running into His embrace.  It was a touching reminder of the Shepherd’s heart.

How much greater is Christ’s love for the sheep of His pasture—the redeemed of the Lord.  As Christians, we seek His approval, not to earn His love, but because we long to live in the warmth of His agape love and experience His spiritual embrace.  His love is never limited.  No believer is ever short-changed, for His love is infinite, and His compassion knows no end.

We can be confident that Jesus is waiting on the other side of our obedience.  His promise remains true: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  As we faithfully follow Him, we discover that every step of obedience leads us closer to the heart of our Good Shepherd.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Don't Let It Define You

What does the “it” in the title refer to?  It can represent many things.  Allow me to consider some of the kinds of “it” that can so easily define a person: pride, self-righteousness, ungodliness, evil, hatred, and countless other attitudes and behaviors that are contrary to Christ.  You get the point—anything that reflects a satanic or antichrist spirit.

These are just a few of the “it” bombs that come to mind—things that can shape a person’s identity if left unchecked.  When the enemy comes in like a flood, often disguised in sheep’s clothing, the underlying motivation is eventually revealed to those who are spiritually attuned to the Holy Spirit and alert to deception.  Over time, a person’s true nature becomes evident, because the spirit within them is revealed.

The Bible says, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”  What is hidden beneath an outward appearance of goodness is eventually exposed through a person’s words.  The mouth reveals what fills the heart.

(Luke 6:45), ”A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart.  For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”

I tend to read people rather quickly.  I used to call it my “sixth sense,” but I now understand it as likely the gift of discernment—the discernment of spirits—at work within me.  It is one of the nine spiritual gifts God gives to believers as He wills.  In 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Paul describes these gifts and reminds us that they are all produced by one and the same Spirit, who distributes them to each person as He determines.

This gift is the special ability given by the Holy Spirit to tell if a spiritual message, action, or teaching comes from God, human deception, or evil forces.

When God saved my soul, He broke the chains that once bound me to sin and to Satan.  I am no longer defined by the sinner I once was.  My soul was cleansed from all unrighteousness.  My speech changed.  My attitude changed.  My sins were forgiven.

The Holy Spirit is not an “it.”  He is a Person—the third Person of the Trinity.  Because of His grace, I desire for Him to define every part of my life.  My prayer is that others will be drawn to Jesus by what they see in me, rather than being repelled by the “it” that once defined me.

(Colossians 3:8-10), “But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.” (vs 9) “Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds,” (vs 10) “and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Hope Is Everything

Everyone needs hope in their life, whether young or old.  Without hope, people are truly miserable.  They have little to look forward to because their present-day existence is filled with frustration, unnecessary worry, and a lack of peace.

The first sentence begins with the word everyone.  That includes you and me.  Those who are barely eking out an existence, perhaps trying to survive on the streets of our cities, need hope.  People who live ln mansions—and everyone in between—need hope.

People experience the emptiness that follows temporary highs, whether from drugs, shopping sprees, or other pursuits that promise satisfaction but never truly deliver.  For a brief moment, they are confronted with reality and ask themselves, “Is this all there is to life?”  The things they buy and the vices they pursue may provide temporary satisfaction, but nothing lasting.

I can understand this way of thinking when people are living in cardboard boxes, but how can someone with influence and an abundance of wealth ask the very same question?  The answer is simple.  As I see it, nothing can provide a firm foundation on which to build steadfastness, peace of mind, and lasting joy apart from hope.

You may ask, “How then do I find real hope?”  If it cannot be bought with money stored away in bank accounts or found through drugs and worldly pleasures, where does genuine hope come from?

The answer is found in one name above every other name—Jesus Christ.  He is the hope of the world, regardless of a person’s position in society.  Whether someone moves among the influential or struggles simply to make ends meet, every person needs hope.  No matter one’s status in life, hope is everything—and Jesus is everything.

Without hope, all the temporary highs—accumulating possessions, chasing wealth, or searching for another syringe of drugs or another bottle of alcohol—are ultimately meaningless when it comes to finding lasting fulfillment.  As I have said, money, drugs, and every other substitute offer only temporary relief for the emptiness within the human heart.

Only Jesus can fill that void.  Every other effort to satisfy the soul’s longing is in vain.  The only One who can truly satisfy the deepest longings of the heart and provide “joy unspeakable and full of glory” is Jesus Christ.  In Him there is an unshakable hope for the future, for He is the Savior of all mankind.

As Romans 15:13 declares: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Soul-Parching Moments

It is an unforgettable memory when I compare the life I live now with the days when I walked in my own strength.  I was a man searching for springs of living water in all the wrong places.  My soul was spiritually parched, thirsting for a cool drink that could sustain me and keep me from collapsing under the weight of spiritual dehydration.

I call those memories my “soul-parching moments.”  It is not that I dwell on the past, but whenever I reflect on Jesus and what He accomplished for me at Calvary, my soul rejoices because I know firsthand the depth of God’s mercy.  He touched my parched lips with the cup of His saving grace and filled my dry and weary soul with the life-giving water that only He can provide.

I am thankful for every morning I awaken with hope in my soul, where once there was only fear and worry.  There was a time when I dreaded the thought of dying in my sleep because I knew where my soul was headed—and it was not heaven.  But Jesus changed everything.  He revived my dry bones, breathed life into my soul, and awakened me to the riches of His grace.

Never have I experienced a touch as loving and life-changing as the moment I finally unclenched my tightly closed hand and took hold of the hand Jesus had been faithfully extending to me all along.  Since that day, I have walked in the refreshing waters of His presence, fully hydrated by His grace and overflowing with His love.  My once-parched soul has become a testimony to the living water that only Christ can give.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

It's a God Thing

Over the last three or four years, I’ve heard the phrase, “It’s a God thing,” spoken by different people.  Every time I hear it, I smile, because it captures so much truth in just four simple words.

The phrase says it all.  It leaves nothing to the imagination except this: the Almighty has stepped into a situation and accomplished something only He could do.  Four words tell the whole story.

Each time I’ve heard someone say, “It’s a God thing,” they were describing an event that was clearly supernatural—an unmistakable answer to prayer.  I’ve since adopted the phrase myself because I can think of no better way to explain the unexplainable.  When God performs a miracle, opens an impossible door, or answers a heartfelt prayer, the simplest and truest explanation is this: It’s a God thing.

Those four words give Him the glory He deserves.

I don’t believe in happenstance or that life is governed by random circumstances and lucky breaks.  I believe that God is always at work, even when His hand is hidden from our eyes.  His Word assures us that all things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Still, there are seasons when it’s easy to become discouraged.  We long for something with all our hearts, yet every attempt to reach it seems to end behind a closed door.  We push, we pray, we wait—and nothing changes.

That is often when the enemy quietly whispers discouraging thoughts: “God doesn’t care.  He has left you to weep alone.”  If we listen long enough, the lies become even darker: “God has forsaken you.  You must have done something to make Him angry.  He is punishing you.”

But those whispers are never the voice of our Heavenly Father.

God is love—plain and simple.  His desire is for us to flourish and to experience the abundant life Jesus promised.  Above all, His heart is that no one should perish but that everyone would come to Him with a repentant heart, receive His forgiveness, and enjoy eternal life in His presence.  Heaven is the glorious inheritance awaiting those who place their faith in Him.

When I think back to the day after God forgave my sins, I realize that if I had known this phrase then, I would have said it without hesitation: “It’s a God thing.”  The forgiveness He poured into my life brought such miraculous healing to my soul that no human explanation could ever do it justice.  Only God could have lifted the weight of guilt, replaced despair with peace, and filled an empty heart with hope.

It truly was a God thing.

And what about those doors that refuse to open?

Time and again, I have discovered that when God closes one door, He opens another that is perfectly aligned with His will.  At first, the closed door may feel like rejection, disappointment, or even loss.  But with time comes perspective, and we begin to see that His “no” was often His loving protection, while His “yes” was preparing something far better than we could have imagined.

There is no doubt in my mind that our Heavenly Father desires what is best for His children.  His timing is perfect, His wisdom is flawless, and His love never fails.

So when we pray, “Not my will, but Yours be done,” we can rest in the confidence that Jesus walks beside us through every valley and every mountaintop.  He is faithfully working behind the scenes, weaving together circumstances according to His perfect plan.  Even when we cannot see His hand, we can trust His heart.

Looking back over our lives, we often discover that the moments we once questioned became the very places where God revealed His faithfulness most clearly.  What seemed impossible became possible.  What appeared to be an ending became a new beginning.  What looked like coincidence proved to be divine intervention.

And when every earthly explanation falls short, there is only one thing left to say:  It’s a God thing.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Hope Has a Name

The amazing reality was not that I found God, though that was life-changing, but that He had been seeking me all along.  I was important to Him.  He loved me deeply.  I was never beyond His reach.

Though I was on the raging sea of despair, far from the peaceful shore of God’s harbor of new beginnings, hope was always there.  I simply needed to reach out and take His hand when the waters grew deep.  Even though the crashing waves of sin and degradation surrounded me, threatening to sink the vessel God had created—a vessel marked by human frailty and fear of what might come next—there was still hope.

When the uncertainty of tomorrow weighs heavily on us and we struggle to find a place of rest, Jesus remains present in the midst of our storm.  He is ready to speak, “Peace!  Be still!” over the winds and waves that awaken fear, pain, and unanswered questions within our hearts.  In those moments, we may find ourselves crying, “Does anyone care that I am perishing?  Is this thought telling me the truth, or is it leading me into deception?”

Then, in the stillness of our spirit, we hear His gentle voice: “Hope is more than a feeling or a wish for better days.  True hope has a name.  My name is Jesus.  I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”

When I reached out my hand to receive God’s life preserver—Jesus Christ—I finally understood that He had been in control all along because of His unfailing love.  From the cross of Calvary, He was calling my name, reaching out to me through the corridor of time.  He saw my desperate condition and lovingly said, “Take My hand and live.  I will save you, My child.”

I have learned that every promise of God, every assurance of peace, and every confidence for tomorrow are found in Him.  By His grace I stand against the storms of life, not in my own strength, but in His.  I walk in hope, because hope has a name—Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.  He alone is the answer to life’s deepest struggles.  He is our Harbor of Rest and our assurance of eternal life with Him in heaven when we come to God in repentance and place our faith in Jesus Christ.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Echo of a Memory

There is a sacred memory that often echoes through my heart—a moment from the past that forever changed the course of my life.  It was the night I knelt before God and asked Him to forgive my sins.  In that life-changing moment, I experienced the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit as He lovingly broke the chains of sin that had held me captive.  What happened that night was more than an emotional experience; it was the miracle of new life.

The memory returns to me time and again, like a gentle echo that never fades.  There is nothing unusual about that.  If someone rushed into a burning building and rescued you from certain death, you would never forget the day your life was spared.  You would cherish that memory because another willingly risked everything to save you.

How much more should I remember the day Jesus Christ became my Savior?  He willingly went to the cross and gave His life to pay a debt I could never repay—the debt of my sin.  Through His sacrifice, I found what I had searched for all along: forgiveness, peace, contentment, and the assurance of eternal life.  In a single moment, God accomplished what years of striving and self-effort never could.

The beautiful truth is that what He did for me, He desires to do for you.  The moment you turn to Him in faith and ask Him to forgive your sins, He breathes spiritual life into your soul and makes you His own.  The joy of that encounter is so profound that it will become a treasured memory—a beautiful echo that continues to resound throughout your life, reminding you of the glorious day God’s grace found you and you became His beloved child.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Hope That Never Fails

My thoughts are becoming more focused as I consider what to write next—something that I hope will encourage you in some way.

I carry a few cards in my wallet with my blog address printed on them.  Whenever the opportunity presents itself, I hand one out, hoping the person who receives it will visit my blog and be blessed by what they read.  At the top of the card are the words, THOUGHTS FOR TODAY, and at the bottom, Writings of Hope.  Today I will focus on the word: hope.

First, I would like to share my blog address with you:

www.wordsfrompapa.blogspot.com

I believe you will find words of hope there—hope that is needed now more than ever.  The central theme of most of my writings is: Jesus Christ, the Hope of the world.

If you have tried everything and still cannot find the peace your heart longs for, I encourage you to turn to Jesus.  He cares deeply for you and desires to be your faithful Friend, the One who “sticks closer than a brother.”

The Scriptures invite us to taste and see that the Lord is good.  Those who surrender their hearts to Him discover the immeasurable blessings of His agape love.  Jesus said in Luke 6:38:

“Give, and it shall be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.  For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Giving ourselves completely to the Lord is the greatest investment we will ever make.

When I came to know the Lord several years ago, I experienced a peace so profound that words can scarcely describe it.  The apostle Paul expressed it perfectly in Philippians 4:7:

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I share this hope with you because I know it is real through personal experience.  God filled my heart to overflowing with His peace—the peace that comes through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace—when He forgave my sins and came into my life.

God shows no favoritism.  What He has done for me, He is willing to do for you.

Jesus, and He alone, is the hope of humanity.  No person, philosophy, or earthly pursuit can provide the gift of eternal life.  That gift is found only in Jesus Christ, through His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead for the sins of all mankind.

My prayer is that you will come to know Him personally and discover the same hope, peace, and everlasting love that He has so graciously given to me.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Like a Stone Skipping Across Water

I remember, as a boy, visiting my Grandpa John’s house after church on Sunday afternoons.  Most of my aunts, uncles, cousins, and our family would gather there for wonderful family get-togethers and huge potluck dinners.

A short distance down the hill from Grandpa’s house was a pond.  I loved challenging my cousins to rock-skipping contests to see who could get the most bounces from a single stone.  A smooth, round, flat rock was always the best choice if you wanted the longest skip.

After the meal was finished, Grandpa loved to pitch horseshoes, and my uncles enjoyed joining him.  Those afternoons were filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the simple pleasures that brought our family together.

It was a wonderful feeling to stand by that pond, with the afternoon breeze gently blowing against my face, watching the ripples spread across the water from each stone thrown.  Life was simple back then.  My cousins and I enjoyed one another’s company as we took turns skipping rocks and watching them hop across the water.  Laughter filled the air as we tried to outdo each other with every throw.

Those carefree afternoons remind me of the importance of Christian fellowship.  Just as my relatives treasured gathering together on Sunday afternoons, God designed the church to be a family where we encourage one another, carry one another’s burdens, and grow together in faith.

Life brings seasons of disappointment, discouragement, and uncertainty.  During those valley experiences, it can be tempting to withdraw from others or make decisions while our hearts are hurting.  Yet God often strengthens us through the prayers, encouragement, and loving support of fellow believers.  The church becomes a place where we are reminded that we do not have to walk through life’s struggles alone.

When we remain connected to a healthy church family, we find people who will pray with us, encourage us, and gently help us keep our eyes on Christ.  We have all needed that kind of support at one time or another.  God frequently ministers to us through the love and faithfulness of His people.

There are certainly times when changing churches is necessary because of sound biblical reasons or significant life circumstances.  However, when we move from church to church simply because of disappointments, unresolved conflicts, or unmet expectations, we may unintentionally miss the deeper work God wants to accomplish in our hearts.

In some ways, that reminds me of a stone skipping across the surface of the water.  With each bounce it continues moving, but eventually it loses momentum and settles beneath the surface.  Likewise, if disappointments are never addressed, they can gradually give way to discouragement and even doubt.  God desires to heal those wounds rather than have us continually carry them from one place to another.

My desire in sharing these thoughts is simply to encourage anyone who may be struggling.  One concern I have is the effect frequent church changes can have on children.  Just as they begin building friendships, connecting with teachers, and finding their place in a youth group, another move may require them to begin all over again.  Children thrive when they experience loving relationships and healthy stability, and a faithful church family can become an important part of that foundation.

Our lives are interconnected.  None of us lives entirely unto ourselves.  What we say and do influences those around us.  Our attitudes, actions, and decisions leave impressions—either positive or negative—upon our families, our fellow believers, and those who quietly observe our lives.

As I close my eyes, I can almost hear those stones slapping against the water, each bounce becoming quicker until the rock finally disappears beneath the surface.  That image reminds me how easy it can be to keep searching for something different without ever finding the peace we are looking for.  Sometimes the answer is not found in another church, but in allowing God to bring healing, wisdom, and renewed hope where we are.

When families leave a church after only a brief stay, it can also be difficult for the congregation and for the pastors and leaders who are prayerfully seeking to build a living, stable church family.  Healthy relationships often take time to develop, and perseverance can produce lasting fruit.

If we are searching for a perfect church, we will never find one because every congregation is made up of imperfect people—including ourselves.  Yet within an imperfect church, God continues His perfect work of shaping His children.  Through faithful pastors, caring church leaders, devoted prayer warriors, and loving brothers and sisters in Christ, He provides guidance, encouragement, correction, and hope.

As long as a church faithfully teaches God’s Word and honors the Gospel, it is wise to prayerfully consider our concerns before making a decision to leave.  Rather than allowing emotions alone to guide us, we can seek God’s direction, trusting Him to provide wisdom for each step.

Hebrews 10:23-25 reminds us: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.  And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as in the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”  

May we continue encouraging one another; remaining faithful to Christ, and valuing the gift of a church family that God has graciously given us.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Shadows of Darkness

There are moments from childhood that remain as vivid today as if they happened yesterday.  For me, many of those memories come from growing up in the small town of Martinez, California—a close-knit bedroom community where neighbors knew one another, children played freely, and life seemed wonderfully uncomplicated.  Major crimes were almost unheard of.  Petty theft may have occurred from time to time, but nothing that caused people to live behind locked doors or constant fear.  Looking back, it feels like a different world.

Halloween was one of my favorite nights of the year.  Armed with nothing more than a costume and a pillowcase, I would wander the streets by myself, going from house to house as neighbors cheerfully filled my bag with candy.  Parents didn’t worry about poisoned treats or hidden razor blades because such stories simply didn’t exist in our community.  Trust was the fabric of everyday life.

It was also perfectly normal for me to walk the two blocks to our neighborhood store after dusk.  No one thought twice about it.  The streets were quiet, the people were familiar, and home never felt far away.

Yet there was one thing that stirred my young imagination—the darkness.

I remember whistling as I walked home, almost as if the sound reassured me that everything would be all right.  The shadows cast by trees and porch lights seemed mysterious, and every dark corner invited my imagination to invent dangers that weren’t really there.  As I reached our front porch, I would hurry to open the unlocked door, jump inside, and quickly shut it behind me.  In those fleeting moments, I was convinced that someone—or something—might grab me before I made it safely indoors.

You might ask, “How in the world could your parents allow you to do such things?  Didn’t they care what happened to you?”  They absolutely did.  They loved me deeply and cared about my safety and well-being.   But times were different back then.  Children were precious, and people looked out for one another.  The saying, “It takes a village to raise a child,” truly reflected the heart and character of the good, honorable people who lived there.

Today I smile at those childhood fears, knowing they existed only in my imagination.  Yet as I have grown older, I have come to realize that while those imagined shadows disappeared, another kind of darkness has spread across our world.

The darkness we face today is no longer confined to childhood fears or the absence of sunlight.  It reveals itself in broken families, violence, hatred, addiction, abuse, deception, and a growing rejection of God’s truth.  The innocence that once characterized so many communities has steadily faded, replaced by uncertainty and fear.

I often hear people ask, “What has happened to our country?  Where have honor, integrity, and respect gone?”

From my understanding of Scripture, the answer is spiritual before it is social misbehavior.  The Bible teaches that we are living in the last days before the return of Jesus Christ.  Satan continues his relentless work to deceive, divide, and destroy, while many have chosen to set God aside in pursuit of their own desires.  As sin becomes increasingly accepted, the shadows grow darker.

Yet darkness has never been able to overcome God’s light.  That is the beautiful message of the Gospel.

Jesus Christ entered a dark world to bring hope where there was despair, forgiveness where there was guilt, and life where there was death.  Every one of us has sinned.  Scripture declares that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

No amount of good works, kindness, or personal effort can erase our guilt before a holy God.  That is why Jesus willingly went to the cross.  He bore the punishment we deserved, died for our sins, rose victorious from the grave, and now sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding for those who place their faith in Him.

Because of His sacrifice, no one has to remain in spiritual darkness.

When we confess our sins, repent, and place our trust in Jesus Christ, He forgives us completely.  His light begins to transform our hearts, replacing fear with peace, guilt with grace, and hopelessness with everlasting hope.

As believers, we are called to live in this world without becoming part of its corruption. We are pilgrims on a journey, citizens of a heavenly kingdom, passing through this temporary life while looking forward to the eternal home Christ has prepared for those who love Him.

For that reason, I believe we should pray daily, asking God to surround ourselves and our loved ones with His protection and grace.  We can face an increasingly dark world with confidence because we never walk through it alone.  The Lord Himself walks beside us.

I still remember those childhood evenings when I hurried through the shadows toward the safety of my father’s house.  Now I see those memories differently.

The shadows I feared as a little boy have become a reminder of a far greater spiritual truth.  Every person must one day decide whether to remain in darkness or step into the marvelous light of Jesus Christ. 

The invitation has never changed.

Jesus loves beyond measure.  He does not desire that anyone should perish but that all would come to repentance and receive the gift of eternal life.  Through His immeasurable love, He clothes us in His righteousness, calls us His children, and welcomes us into His eternal family.

When Christ dwells within us, the shadows may still surround us, but they no longer define us.  The darkness cannot overcome the Light, and because He lives within us, we can walk forward in faith, hope, and confidence until the day we finally arrive home.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Breath of Life

The Breath of Life…it is what every person is truly searching for deep within the depths of the soul.  People try to fill the emptiness within themselves with the material things they buy, hoping they will satisfy that gnawing hunger inside.  Some become workaholics, striving to earn more money so they can buy more things they believe will fulfill their deepest longings.  Yet the emptiness remains.

Others pursue false doctrines that contradict the truths of God’s Word.  These teachings are nothing more than pipe dreams, leading people down the wrong path—antichrist in nature—having never received the Breath of Life breathed upon them by the Holy Spirit.

One such teaching is, “Name it and claim it.”  When taken to its extreme, it places confidence in self rather than In God.  I know the Scriptures say, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).  Faith requires action; it is not sitting back and doing nothing.  But this teaching can run dangerously close to suggesting that we become equal with God, leaving Him out of our decisions because all we have to do is “name it and claim it.”  In my humble opinion, that is a subtle deception.

God prospers those who call upon His name and ask according to His will.  His blessings are never detached from His wisdom or His purpose.  Every teaching that substitutes self for Christ is just that—a substitute for the Real Thing, Jesus Christ.  Turn away from such teachings.  Ignore them.  Do not allow them to captivate your heart, for they offer only momentary solutions to an everlasting longing for true peace.

Many people are not even aware that the only true Breath of Life is just a prayer away—forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ.  He alone is the answer to the deep longing hidden within every soul.

Instead of turning to Him, people are persuaded to believe that success lies within themselves—in their own abilities, achievements, and ambitions. They have been deceived into believing that their own way is the only path to happiness and fulfillment.  But no matter how hard they strive, no matter how much they possess, nothing they do or buy can satisfy the emptiness within.

Many fail to recognize just how skillfully they have been manipulated and separated from the truth of God’s Word.  Evil lurks in the shadows of darkness, working day and night to keep people blinded to the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Those words may sound frightening, but Jesus casts out fear from those who follow Him.  His hand of protection rests upon His children.  He is the Light that darkness cannot overcome, the Truth that exposes every lie, and the perfect answer to the enemy’s manipulation of God’s truth.

Jesus is the Breath of Life.  He breathes life into those whose souls have become like dry bones.  He calls the dead to life.  He brings hope where there was despair, light where there was darkness, and peace where there was unrest. 

From death unto life—this is God’s promise to all who repent of their sins, place their faith in Jesus Christ, and follow Him.  In Him alone is found the Breath of Life for which every heart has been searching all along.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Log

I knew a godly man who spent many years working in the gold mines of Grass Valley, California.  When the mines closed in 1956, he had to find another way to provide for his family.  He became a logger, felling towering trees in the forests of Northern California.

Logging is dangerous work, and one day tragedy nearly struck.  A massive log rolled over his leg, leaving him seriously injured.  By God’s grace, however, his life was spared.

After months of recovery, he made a life=changing decision.  He packed up his family and moved south to the city where I lived.  There he found work as a security guard at a nearby retirement community.  It may have seemed like an ordinary move prompted by difficult circumstances, but God was quietly arranging events that no one could have imagined.

Dad, as I later called him, had two sons and a young daughter who was in the seventh grade when they relocated.  Nine years later, I met that young lady when a woman in her church played Cupid and introduced us.  I was attending another church at that time.  We fell in love and, six months later, we were married.  A year after that, our first child was born.  Eventually God blessed us with three wonderful children.

Looking back, I cannot help but marvel at God’s providence.  Had the mines remained open…had he never become a logger…had the accident never occurred…had the family never moved south…had that woman not introduced us…our paths may never have crossed.  What appeared to be a series of hardships became the very means God used to bring us together.

How true are the words of Scripture: “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.”  (Psalm 37:23).  My wife would quickly remind me that the Lord orders the steps of godly women as well.  I certainly believe that.

Now, before you remind me that the title of this writing is called The Log, let me gently steer us back to the point.

Not long ago, my wife and I were enjoying dinner at one of our favorite restaurants.  At the table beside us sat a group of people celebrating together.  Unfortunately, one gentleman seemed determined to make the evening entirely about himself.

He talked without interruption.  Story after story poured out as he described his travels, financial success, influential positions with well-known companies, and ambitious plans for the future.  No one else had an opportunity to contribute to the conversation.  Every attempt to speak was swallowed by another tale of his accomplishments.

As the evening wore on, the conversation became even more uncomfortable.

He began pointing out where others at the table had failed.  He analyzed their decisions, highlighted their shortcomings, and confidently explained what they should have done differently.  His words carried the unmistakable tone of someone who believed he had mastered life while everyone else had somehow fallen behind.

Listening from the next table, I couldn’t help but think of Jesus’ words: “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but fail to notice the log in your own eye?”  (Matthew 7:3).

That illustration has always fascinated me.  The speck is tiny.  A log in enormous.  Yet pride has a remarkable way of blinding us to our own faults while magnifying the faults of others.

I believe Jesus was teaching far more than proper manners.  He was exposing one of the deepest tendencies of the human heart.  We are often eager to correct others before allowing God to correct us.  We readily offer advice before examining our own attitudes.  We can become so convinced of our own wisdom that we stop recognizing our need for humility.

Proverbs 16:18 warns us plainly: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”  Those words are timeless because pride remains one of humanity’s oldest temptations.

As followers of Christ, we must be especially careful.  It is possible to know Scripture well and still fail to reflect the heart of Christ.  We may have good intentions, yet our words can become harsh, self-righteous, or condescending.  Most people do not respond to condemnation.  They respond to genuine love.

Jesus never compromised truth, but He delivered truth with compassion.  He was firm without being arrogant, honest without being cruel, and holy without being unapproachable.

When we speak to others about the Lord, they should encounter more than correct doctrine.  They should experience the gentleness, kindness, patience, and love that the Holy Spirit produces within a surrendered heart.  A humble spirit often opens doors that forceful words can never unlock.

Perhaps that evening in the restaurant served as more than an uncomfortable interruption to our dinner.  Perhaps it was a quiet reminder from the Lord to examine my own heart before evaluating someone else’s.  After all, logs are much harder to see when they are in our own eyes.

The Lord is still in the business of removing logs.  If we will humbly allow Him to search our hearts, He will replace pride with humility, criticism with compassion, and self-importance with Christlike love.

Love truly does conquer all.  May that love be the defining mark of our lives as we share Jesus and His wonderful plan with those He places in our path.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Am I Concerned for Lost Souls

My wife and I recently attended a baseball game with our daughter and son-in-law in a nearby city.  The stadium was packed with fans cheering for their favorite team, hoping for a big win.  It was an enjoyable time away with family.

But when the final out was recorded and the crowd began filing out of the stadium, a sobering thought suddenly overwhelmed me: “How many people in this crowd are saved and on their way to heaven?”

My heart grew heavy as I watched the faces around me.  Some were smiling from ear to ear because their team had won, while others walked away disappointed because their team had lost.  Eventually, we reached our car, which seemed to be parked in the “north forty” of the parking lot.

As we walked, my wife shared what was weighing on her heart.  She wasn’t troubled because our team had lost; she too had sensed the spiritual hopelessness within that massive crowd.  She quietly asked, “How many of these people are lost and without God?”

As the crowd disappeared into the night, and the stadium lights faded behind us, I was spiritually numb to think: “Where are these people going to spend eternity?”  My other thought: “How many people will stand before Almighty God one day and give an account for the deeds they did on earth?”  It will be too late for believers to witness and tell them about Jesus.  My heart was heavy and troubled.  I pray that God will send someone their way to share the plan of salvation while there is yet time.

My wife’s question gives rise to several others that every Christian should ask:

** Am I truly concerned and burdened for lost souls?

** Have I become content simply knowing that I am going to heaven?

** Have I adopted an “us four and no more” mentality?

** Do I attend church each Sunday only to complain about the sermon or grumble because there is another guest speaker?

** Where is the brokenness of spirit I once felt for those who were without Christ when I was first saved?

** Have I become complacent, satisfied with the status quo of my Christian life?

I believe God desires His children to be actively involved in bringing others to Christ.  Jesus said, “The fields are white unto harvest.”  Souls are all around us in need of a Savior—but where are the laborers?

All of heaven rejoices when one sinner repents and gives their heart to Jesus.  But people cannot believe the Good News unless they first hear it—that Jesus died for their sins, rose again, and offers eternal life.  There is heaven to gain and hell to shun.

As ambassadors for Christ, we must remind ourselves that the time for redemption is drawing near.  The signs of the times are everywhere.  We need to open our eyes, recognize the lost souls surrounding us, and respond with compassion and urgency.

Think about those God has already placed in your life: the neighbor next door, the coworker you eat lunch with, the teammate you play sports with, the mail carrier, or the loved one whose heart has grown cold and wandered away from Christ.

When I was first saved, I often prayed, “Lord, where do You want me to go tonight?”  I believed He was already preparing someone’s heart to receive the Words of Life that He wanted me to share.

If we have become spiritually sleepy, it is time to awaken.  There is still time to reach those who are perishing.  May we once again become deeply rattled when we see people drowning in sin.  Instead of walking by, may we throw them the only Lifeline that can save them—Jesus Christ, the only hope for lost souls.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Let Go of the Reins

Have you ever found yourself resisting advice, keeping people at arm’s length, or feeling more comfortable relying on your own judgment than accepting the guidance of others?  I certainly have.

If you had known me years ago, you might have described me as reserved, difficult to read, or even unapproachable.  More than one person told me, “You’re hard to figure out.”  Looking back, I realize that beneath my quiet exterior was a heart that often wanted to remain in control.  My attitude could easily become, “My way or the highway.”

Thankfully, God wasn’t content to leave me that way.

As I have grown in my relationship with Jesus Christ, He has patiently begun reshaping my heart.  The more I surrender the reins of my life to Him, the more I discover the freedom that comes from trusting His leadership instead of insisting on my own.  That transformation has not happened overnight, nor has it always been easy, but it has been one of God’s greatest blessings in my life.

Every believer experiences a struggle between the old nature and the new life we receive in Christ.  Learning to “put off” the old self and “put on” the new is a lifelong process.  Left to ourselves, we often return to familiar habits and attitudes.  Yet God has not left us to fight that battle alone.  The Holy Spirit faithfully works within us, gently convicting, encouraging, and strengthening us as He molds us into the image of Christ.

When we truly surrender the reins to Christ, change begins to take place.  We become more willing to listen, more open to wise counsel, quicker to extend grace, and easier for others to approach.  The Holy Spirit softens the rough edges that once defined us and gradually replaces them with the character of Christ.

I have seen this change in my own life.

By nature, I am still a quiet and reserved person.  God has not changed my personality, but He is changing my heart.  He is teaching me to become more attentive to His voice, more sensitive to the needs of others, and more willing to step beyond my comfort zone whenever He calls.  My prayer is that those who read these words will sense not merely my sincerity, but the unmistakable evidence of God’s transforming work.

God created each of us with unique personalities, but none of us has reached the point where we no longer need His refining hand.  Patiently, and often in ways I never expected, He continues revealing areas where I need to grow.  The man I am today is not the man I was before Christ saved me.  Looking back, I see two very different lives—one directed by self and the other increasingly surrendered to the Savior.

Every step I take toward the Lord strengthens my confidence in His faithfulness.  He continually reminds me to persevere, to remain steadfast in the faith, and to keep giving myself more completely to Him and to those He places in my path.

The truth is, I am far from perfect.  Only One has ever walked this earth in perfect righteousness—Jesus Christ.  Yet I stand amazed at the grace God has poured into my life.  His patience has never failed me, His mercy has never been exhausted, and His love has never wavered.

Even now, there are moments when I find myself tightening my grip on the reins once again.  Part of me still wants to maintain control.  But experience has taught me that God’s plans are always better than my own.  Every time I loosen my grip and place the reins back into His hands, I discover anew that His direction is wiser, His timing is perfect, and His purposes are always for my good and for His glory.

The psalmist wrote, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delights in his way” (Psalm 37:23).  That promise has become deeply personal to me.  I trust that the Lord goes before me, preparing hearts and opening doors to share the hope of Jesus Christ and the message of salvation with those He brings across my path.

The longer I walk with the Lord, the greater my desire becomes to serve Him faithfully.  As I grow in His grace, my purpose becomes clearer, my vision sharper, and my appreciation for His work deeper.  Whatever fruit comes from my life belongs entirely to Him.

I’ve learned that surrender is not a single decision but a daily choice.  Every morning presents another opportunity to release the reins and trust the One who has never led me astray.

After all, the safest place for our lives has never been in our own hands—it has always been in His.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Life Begins and Ends Within Time Limitations

This title came to me in my sleep last night.  Let’s explore its meaning.

Webster’s Dictionary defines time as “the measured or measurable period during which an action, process, or condition exists or continues.”

When I look up at the heavens at night and drink in the beauty and majesty of the vastness of outer space, I stand in awe as I gaze at the celestial bodies that make up God’s glorious creation.  I feel so small in comparison because it baffles my finite understanding.

Isaiah 55:8-9 declares that God’s divine perspective and plans are infinitely higher and far more perfect than human understanding—a powerful reminder of His sovereignty.

When I try to grasp its splendor, it feels as though my mind is being turned inside out, much like my wife does with my socks and T-shirts before washing them.  Then, when I try to picture God the Creator—and the fact that He has always been, with no beginning and no end—my mind feels like it’s being turned upside down and twirled back and forth like our washing machine tumbling the clothes.  There goes my mind again.

My brain struggles to grasp the majesty of God when I think about creation and the fact that He formed us from the dust of the earth so we could have fellowship with Him, our Maker.  Sometimes it feels like my mind wants to do round-offs and back handsprings, like I did in high school gymnastics, whenever I stop to think about the immeasurable beauty and magnificence of God.

Time began—or, more precisely, time was created by God in the beginning when He created the heavens and the earth.  Before creation, there was no created universe and no created time.  God existed outside of time because He is eternal.  He has always been and always will be.  There goes my mind again, trying to grasp the wonders of God.

(Job 11:7), “Can you fathom the mysteries of God?”

What blows my mind even more is the fact that He knows my name and that it is written on the palm of His hand.  I am precious to Him.  He loves me infinitely, just as He loves you, the reader of this truth.  He loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die on the cross and pay the full price for our sins—a debt we could never pay ourselves.

God has given every one of us a certain amount of time on this earth to repent of our sins and become His children.  But time is running out.  We truly live and die within time limitations.

I believe the time God has given us is like a dressing room—a place of preparation where we prepare ourselves for eternity.  When Jesus returns for His bride, the Church of the Living God, time as we know it will be no more.  Living forever with Him in heaven, time itself will no longer matter.  Forever and ever…there goes my mind again.

But I don’t have to worry about time or when it ends, because I’m a child of the King.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

We Will Change Addresses

Tired of moving around?  Some families seem to be in a continual state of relocation, moving from one home to another as circumstances dictate—military assignments, career promotions, real estate opportunities, or the desire for a larger home as finances allow.

Packing up an entire household is rarely easy.  As people grow older and begin to settle into a place they consider home, the thought of moving can become even more challenging.

Yet there is one move that will be the final move every Christian will ever make—the journey to those yonder streets of gold, where our heavenly mansions are being prepared for those “who love God and are called according to His purpose.”

Years ago, someone told me that God’s perfect number was 7.  Their explanation was that He finished creation and the forming of humans on the seventh day.  I like to imagine my heavenly address as being 777—rather than man’s number, 666.   “777” is my personal illustration.  Scripture does not assign a heavenly address or identify 777 as God’s number.  I just like the numbers.

Yes, there will be a glorious change of address when Jesus returns for His bride—those who have been born again and are eagerly awaiting His return.  Unlike earthly moves, this one will not be dreaded but joyfully welcomed.

Jesus instructed us to look up and rejoice as we see Bible prophecy being fulfilled concerning His second coming.  What gratitude will fill our hearts when we finally arrive at our eternal home! 

We will be overwhelmed with thanksgiving for the change of address that Jesus made possible when He paid the full price for our redemption through His death on the cross and His resurrection from the grave. 

Thank You, Jesus, for paying the debt for my eternal home in heaven—a debt I could never have paid on my own.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Journey Includes the Destination

Every trip begins with a first step.  For many people, whether traveling for business or vacation, the destination is foremost in their minds rather than the time it takes to get there.

In contrast, Ralph Waldo Emerson famously wrote, “Life is a journey, not a destination.”  His words remind us that the experiences, growth, and lessons we encounter along the way are often more valuable than simply reaching a particular goal.  This thought complements the familiar idiom, “Stop and smell the roses,” which encourages us to slow down, appreciate life’s blessings, and enjoy the beauty around us.

There is much wisdom in both sayings, and they are worth putting into practice.  Yet, from a Christian perspective, they do not tell the whole story.  While the journey of faith is indeed precious, it is also leading us toward a glorious destination.  For the believer, the Christian life is not only about walking with Christ each day—it is also about the sure hope of heaven.

Jesus Himself promised this eternal home to every child of God.  It is a place not made with human hands, prepared by God for those who belong to Him.  There, every tear will be wiped away.  Death will no longer separate us from those we love.  Temptation and sin will be gone forever.  And when we see the Lord, Scripture tells us that we shall be like Him.  While I cannot fully comprehend all that this means, I know it will be more wonderful than words can express.

The journey with Jesus is beautiful, but the destination makes the journey complete.  I know that one day I will spend eternity in heaven with Jesus Christ—the One who made that promise possible by dying on the cross for my sins and rising again.  Because of Him, I have the confident hope of an eternal home, where faith will become sight and joy will never end.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Tomorrow the Son May Shine

No, the title is not a typo.

Faith tells me the sun will shine brightly tomorrow morning.  But if, for some unimaginable reason, it never appeared in the eastern sky again, how long would it take for the people of Earth to realize the hopeless predicament they were in?

The answer is eight minutes.

Light travels at approximately 186,000 miles per second, and the sun is about 93 million miles from Earth.  Divide the distance by the speed of light, and you arrive at roughly eight minutes.  That is how long it would take for humanity to realize the sun was gone forever.

Now consider another question: When God’s Son appears in the eastern sky and shines in all his glory, how long will it take for mankind to realize that Christians are gone?

The answer is instantaneous—in the twinkling of an eye.  Now you see them; now you don’t.  They are gone for eternity.

The rapture of the Church, as it is called, may happen tomorrow—or before you finish reading these words.  For those who believe this teaching, it is a certainty that calls for thoughtful and sincere consideration.

If you have not placed your faith in Christ, do not delay in seeking God’s forgiveness and giving your heart to Him.

I believe that when God’s Son appears, He will come quickly and with purpose—to take His bride home for the marriage supper of the Lamb in heaven.

Time is running out.  Do not procrastinate.  Eternity is a very long time to be separated from the Son.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Not Part, But All

I had just completed a blog post that was ready to publish when it was accidentally deleted.  Perhaps the Lord intended for me to share these thoughts instead—God knows.

The phrase “all or part” can encompass a wide range of ideas.  It can apply to something as simple as a portion of food or something as profound as a person’s spiritual walk with God.  With that in mind, let me ask you a question: Is your personality more like a glass half empty or a glass half full?

Let’s consider the question through the life of a man in Scripture named Thomas.  Many know him as “Doubting Thomas,” a title given because of his response after Jesus’ resurrection, recorded in John 20:24-31. 

I believe Thomas had what many would describe as a “glass half empty” personality.  I do not see that as a negative trait.  On the contrary, I believe he was analytical by nature—someone who carefully examined every possibility before making a decision.  I can relate to that.

I also believe Thomas was perceptive and unwilling to accept something without thoughtful consideration.  He refused to allow himself to be easily persuaded.  He had a mind of his own and was an independent thinker.  I find myself leaning in that direction as well.

I try not to vacillate in my thinking or be blown about like a leaf in the wind whenever controversy arises.  Instead, I endeavor to evaluate every situation carefully, considering all possibilities before reaching a conclusion.  Then, once a decision has been made, I strive to stand firmly upon it.

Like Thomas, when we become convinced that something is right—when it aligns with God’s Word and His purpose for our lives—we become all in.  We do not give God only part of ourselves; we give Him all of ourselves.

Remember this: no one needs to wish they had someone else’s personality.  God created each of us uniquely, and we are precious to Him just as we are.  We are exactly the person He intended us to be as He formed us in our mother’s womb.

With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, God will accomplish His purpose in each of us.  He works with every individual differently because each of us is wonderfully unique.  He knows how to shape us, refine us, and perfect His work within us.

The Lord invites each person to come to Him just as they are—not pretending to be someone else.  We are special in His sight.  He works in our lives according to the personalities He Himself created within us.  He knows exactly how He made us, and He uses those unique qualities for His glory.

All in all, God calls His children to discover the place where they can serve Him wholeheartedly—not with only part of themselves, but with all that they are.

Romans 12:1 challenges every believer, regardless of personality, to fully surrender to the Lord: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”

By His grace and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live that kind of surrendered life. 

Lord, I surrender—not part of me, but all of me—to You.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

How--Is the Question

I’m sure people everywhere are asking the question, “How can I make it into heaven when I die?”  Sadly, many people are led to believe that salvation comes through their own works—by doing God’s bidding, being a good person, or living by the principle, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” commonly known as the Golden Rule.

These are admirable principles that encourage kindness and compassion.  Kindness is good and necessary.  However, when people believe their good deeds earn them a place in heaven, they are led into the false belief that they deserve the credit for their salvation.  The mindset becomes, “It’s all up to me.”

Scripture teaches otherwise.  No matter how righteous we may think we are, our own goodness can never make us acceptable before a holy God.  Our self-righteousness is like filthy rags, and apart from God’s grace; none of us can stand before Him. 

People often see only what they want to see and believe what they want to believe, viewing spiritual truth through rose-colored glasses.  It’s like a traveler wearing tinted glasses.  The truth may be standing plainly before them, but their own assumptions color everything they look at.

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

There has only been one perfect man to walk this earth—Jesus Christ.  He, and He alone, is the way to God, the Creator of all things.

One of the key emphases of this writing is found in its title: How.  The other, and even more important emphasis, is grace.  Were it not for God’s amazing grace, a wretch like me could never enter heaven.

I was not merely a person who committed a few sins while balancing them with good deeds.  Like every other human being, I inherited a sinful nature from my ancestors, Adam and Eve.  Their disobedience in the Garden of Eden brought sin into the world, and all humanity inherited what is often called the Adamic nature.  Because of that fallen nature, we are imperfect and separated from God.

We need a Savior—Someone who could make a way where there seemed to be no way.  Jesus Christ is that one and only Savior.  He paid the penalty for our sins when He died on the cross for you, for me, and for all mankind.  Through His death and resurrection, He made reconciliation with God possible for everyone who believes in Him.

So, how do I make it into heaven when I die?  The answer is simple: Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.

As Jesus said in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd