The Horror of Gaslighting...

There’s a word I had never heard mentioned until the last couple of years.  Just the thought of anyone falling prey to its influence is horrific because of the negative ways it can affect them.  The word is gaslighting.  It is a form of psychological manipulation that can even involve emotional abuse, where someone causes another individual or group of people to doubt their own senses, memories, perceptions, or sanity.  It can also be used as a means of gaining control over someone else.

I found the following definition that states it plainly: “Gaslighting uses lying as a core component, but it is not just lying—it is a broader, long-term pattern of psychological manipulation.”

With this definition in mind, you can probably think of someone who tries to manipulate and deceive us, steal our peace, and lead us away from spiritual truth.  Scripture describes our adversary as one who goes about seeking whom he may devour.  You guessed it: the enemy of our souls—Satan.

Scripture warns us in 1 Peter 5:8: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

Satan is the father of lies and seeks to deceive those who are trying to live for Christ and walk in the light of His love.  Although gaslighting is a particular form of manipulation, the enemy’s work of deception reminds us how important it is to recognize and stand against anything that leads us away from God’s truth.

It’s important to be grounded in God’s Word so that we can stand against the enemy’s deception as he tries to trample truth underfoot.  We must hide His Word in our hearts.  It provides us with a trustworthy standard by which to recognize what is true and what is false.  Scripture provides the light that exposes the darkness where the horrors of sin dwell.

Psalm 119:105 tells us: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

How do we protect ourselves from deception when someone is deliberately trying to make us doubt what we know to be true?

The answer begins with having a trustworthy foundation by which to evaluate what we hear and experience.  That foundation is God’s Word, the Bible.  When we allow His truth to take root in our hearts, we have a firm standard by which to recognize deception and stand against it.  No amount of lying can change God’s truth, and no deception can make His Word untrue.

The enemy of our souls, who operates in darkness, may try to take precedence over truth, but Satan is not greater than the One who conquered sin through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, on the cross of Calvary.  Jesus died to free us from the bondage of sin and to give us the hope of eternal life.

Scripture encourages us in John 8:32: “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The A, B, C Plan for Good Decision-Making

Decisions are sometimes hard to make, especially when pertinent information is obscure or missing.  Whenever possible, it is best to gather the facts and understand the ins and outs of a situation before making a decision.  But how can we make a good decision when our minds are filled with unanswered questions that lead to confusion?

Plan A: Seek wisdom from God.

James 1:5 tells us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

What a wonderful assurance!  When we face difficult decisions and lack the understanding we need, we can ask God for wisdom and trust Him to help us discern the best course of action.

I want to make it clear that I am not suggesting we seek answers through Ouija boards, tarot cards, seances, or other practices associated with the occult.  As believers, our guidance should come from God, His Word, and the wisdom He provides—not from spiritual practices that draw us away from Him.  I am talking about having the mind of Christ, seeking His guidance, and making sound decisions in accordance with His will.

Plan B: Seek godly counsel.

I believe godly counsel goes hand in hand with seeking the will of God.  Sometimes, another person’s wisdom and perspective can help us see things we might otherwise overlook. 

Proverbs 11:14 teaches us the value of seeking wise advice before making important decisions: “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”

Seeking godly counsel does not mean others will always have the answers we need.  Rather, it allows us to benefit from the wisdom and experience of those who desire to honor God in their own lives.

Now, what about Plan C?  I have given this some serious thought, and I believe faith is the foundation that holds the first two plans together.

We can gather information and seek wise counsel, but there will be times when we cannot see the whole picture or know what lies ahead.  This is where faith becomes so important. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

We may not always understand why a particular path lies before us, but we can trust the One who sees what we cannot.  Faith allows us to move forward with confidence in God’s love, trusting Him to guide our steps as we seek to follow His will and serve His Son, Jesus Christ, with all that is within us.

Hebrews 11:1 further reminds us: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Faith does not mean we will always know what lies ahead.  It means we can trust God even when we cannot see the outcome.

The bottom line for good decision-making is this: Gather the facts, seek godly counsel, and walk by faith, trusting God to direct your steps.  We may not always have every answer, but we can seek His wisdom, follow His leading, and trust Him with what we cannot see.

We don’t have to see the whole road to trust the One who directs our steps.

That, to me, is the A, B, C plan for good decision-making.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Cotton Candy World of Deception...

 

Things of this world can appear inviting, much like cotton candy, but when tasted, they offer nothing substantial and are short-lived.  Cotton candy can be sticky to the touch and messy to handle. 

I can remember going to a carnival with my sister when I was just a boy.  I was the youngest of four kids.  I was surprised when she bought me cotton candy, as it was the first time I had ever tasted spun candy on a stick.  With every little pinch of that colorful treat, I could almost hear our mom say: “That stuff won’t stick to your ribs!”

Mom wanted her children to eat healthy food.  At home, I heard that statement more than once when she caught me sneaking desserts out of the kitchen cupboard.  Because Mom cared about what her children ate, she wanted me to understand that what I was filling up on was junk—nothing good for the body.  She meant well!

Likewise, certain things in this world are not good for our spiritual health and well-being.  They may look appealing on the outside, but they can leave us spiritually empty.  Worse yet, some things can stick to us like cotton candy or glue when we choose to walk in the darkness of this world rather than in the light of God’s Word.

In 1 John 2:15-17, we find these words: “Do not love the world or the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.  And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.”

I choose to walk in the light of God’s love, revealed through His Son, Jesus Christ.  In John 8:12, Jesus tells us: “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’”

If you feel spiritually stuck because of your encounters with this messy world of deception, there is hope!  Jesus can wash you clean and forgive your sins.  He offers the spiritual nourishment that brings new life to a heart left empty by the things of this world.

Jesus gives us this promise in John 6:35: “And Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life.  He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.’”

Turn to Jesus.  Ask God to forgive your sins, put your faith in His Son, and discover the blessings of becoming a child of God.  You will never regret your decision to turn away from the empty promises of this cotton candy world of deception.  Instead, embrace the everlasting life found in Jesus Christ.

In John 1:12, we read: “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Built on Love...

I was a carpenter by trade and built many structures during my career before retiring.  One thing was certain on every project: the structures needed firm foundations of steel and concrete.  Without them, overpasses, single-family residences, apartment complexes, and room additions would not stand the test of time.

That last thought reminds me of a Scripture in the Bible—the parable Jesus told about the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27.  Jesus compared those who hear His words and put them into practice to a wise man who built his house on the rock.  When the rain fell, the floods came, and the winds beat against the house, it stood firm because it was built on a solid foundation.  In contrast, the house built on sand fell when the storms came.

When a couple marries and builds a life together on love, with God at the head of their relationship, they have a firm foundation to help them weather the trials and tribulations that come their way.  You know the old saying, “A family that prays together stays together.”  How true it is!  Prayer invites God into our lives and helps us grow closer to Him and one another.

When we treat our spouse as we want to be treated, we nurture a relationship built on mutual love, respect, and understanding.  As we stand together on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, we can face life’s storms with greater strength.  Jesus is our Rock!

I’ve heard it said that a relationship is a 50-50 proposition.  I believe it should be a 100-100 proposition, with each person willingly giving 100% of themselves to the other.  Love is not merely about what we receive; it is also about what we are willing to give.

Consider what Jesus Christ did for us.  He gave His life on the cross so that we could receive forgiveness for our sins and experience the abundant life He offers.  He paid a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could not pay.  We needed someone to wash our sins away, and Jesus willingly made that sacrifice for us.

But the cross was not the end of the story!  On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead, conquering death and opening the way for all who believe in Him to receive the gift of eternal life.  What a wonderful demonstration of God’s love for you and me!

Because of His love, we have the promise of an eternal inheritance in the kingdom of heaven.  What a foundation to build our lives upon!

My relationship with the Lord is built on that same love.  And just as a well-built structure needs a firm foundation to stand the test of time, our lives need to be built on Jesus Christ, the Rock who will never fail us.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Growing in the Lord

I’ve heard the four words in this title ever since I became a Christian several years ago.  I must say that they are a true declaration of the Christian experience.

As much as I want to walk in perfection and try each day to do so, I realize that I still fall short.  For the life of me, try as I may, it seems that something always comes along to test my faith and commitment to God.

When I allow my temper to run amok or a bad attitude to take me off course, I find myself turning from Glory Avenue onto Crooked Street.  Before I know it, the joy of the Lord that I have been walking in begins to fade.  I must then repent of those troubling behaviors that seem to resurface time and again.

Slowly but surely, however, I am gaining victory over these areas as I grow in the Lord.  Even when I pillow my head at night, I find myself praying that God will forgive me for any sins I may have committed without realizing it.

I will probably never reach the pinnacle of perfection while living in this flesh, but the Holy Spirit continues to work in me, helping me put off my old nature and become more like Christ.  I’ll say it plainly: I was a mess before I repented of my sins and God filled me with His Spirit.

There is a word that describes the process of spiritual growth a Christian experiences while maturing in Christ.  It is called sanctification.  We are weak in ourselves, but we can be strong in Jesus when we keep our eyes fixed upon Him.

2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us of the wonderful change that takes place when we come to Christ: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.  The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

What a wonderful promise!  Although we may still struggle with our old ways, we do not have to remain as we once were.  God is still working in us, helping us grow in faith, overcome our weaknesses, and become more like His Son.

Without this hope, I would be a miserable man indeed.  But my hope is no longer in my own ability to become perfect.  My hope is in Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior, who continues to work in me as I grow in Him.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Mirage

Riding in the car with my mother and father as we traveled from California back to Kansas to visit relatives, we had to cross the Mojave Desert.  As a child, I allowed my imagination to explore what it must have been like for pioneers traveling in covered wagons across that hot, desolate, and vast terrain on their way to California.  It was an eye-opening thought.

As I gazed into the distance, it appeared that I could see a body of water.  I knew there couldn’t be water in that dry landscape, but there it was—or so it seemed!  I could understand how someone dying of thirst and running out of water might be deceived into believing that a source of water lay ahead.  Especially if unfamiliar with the tricks a desert can play on the eyes, a desperate person might be drawn toward something that offered hope but was never really there.

It’s called a mirage.

Satan uses a similar tactic to deceive us spiritually.  He tries to convince us that the grass is greener on the other side of the dividing line—the line separating good from evil.  He wants us to believe that we are missing out on something better than what God has provided for us.  What appears appealing from a distance may be nothing more than a deception designed to lure us away from the path of righteousness.

The Bible warns us in James 1:14-15: “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.  Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is finished, brings forth death.”

Temptation often presents itself as something desirable, promising satisfaction, excitement, or fulfillment.  Yet what initially attracts us can lead us into places we never intended to go.  Like a mirage in the desert, temptation can offer false hope while concealing the consequences that lie ahead.

Proverbs 14:12 gives us this sobering warning: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

We must not assume that something is good simply because it looks appealing or promises to satisfy our curiosity.  The question is not merely what we might gain by exploring the unknown, but what we might lose by turning away from God’s truth.

As Christians, we must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ rather than allowing the attractions of this world to distract us from Him.  Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to look unto Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith.”  When we keep our attention on Him and follow the guidance of His Word, we are better prepared to recognize temptation for what it is and resist the urge to pursue what could lead us astray.

A mirage in the desert may look like the very thing a thirsty traveler needs, but it cannot satisfy that thirst.  Likewise, the deceptive attractions of sin may promise fulfillment, but they cannot provide the lasting peace and satisfaction found in a right relationship with God.

Let us not be deceived by what merely appears desirable.  May we keep our eyes on Jesus, our hearts grounded in His Word, and our steps firmly planted on the path of righteousness.  What looks like greener grass on the other side may be nothing more than a mirage—and following it could lead us away from the very One who offers us life everlasting.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Don't Let Someday Become Never

Believe me, though we have never met, you are reading the words of a man who often thought, “Someday,” before I finally gave my heart to the Lord.  I was fortunate that my someday didn’t turn into never when it came to accepting God’s plan of salvation.

I started to say that I don’t know why people wait so long, but the fact of the matter is that I did the same thing.  The influence of worldly pleasures and the glitter of momentary satisfaction had blinded me to the light of God’s Word.  I was being deceived, and I was growing weary of the life I was living.  I kept expecting to find some lasting satisfaction, yet all I received in return was an emptiness filled with regrets.

The Holy Spirit, in His long-suffering and gentle wooing, finally got my attention.  His Word reminds us: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” — Matthew 7:7-8

Isaiah 40:31 was exactly the Scripture I needed: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

After sincerely asking God to forgive my sins with a repentant heart, I experienced the lifting of a burden I had carried for so long.  Even now, the Holy Spirit continues to show me each day that God’s grace is sufficient for everything that comes my way.  God helped me understand that His mercy and grace were what my heart had truly been longing for all along.

I am thankful that my procrastination—that tendency to put off calling upon Jesus Christ until someday—didn’t turn into never.

Scripture reminds us that today is the day of salvation.  We cannot assume tomorrow will bring another opportunity to respond to God’s call.  The time to seek Him is now, while the opportunity is before us.

2 Corinthians 6:2 makes this truth especially clear: “For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.’  Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Perhaps you have been telling yourself, “Someday, I’ll give my heart to the Lord.”  I understand, because I once thought the same way.  But please don’t allow the pleasures of today, the uncertainties of tomorrow, or the habit of putting things off to keep you from making the most important decision of your life.

Don’t let someday become never.  Your opportunity to call upon Jesus Christ is too precious to postpone.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Peace Is Knowing the Answer

There is knowing, and then there is knowing.  The difference depends on what we know and how well we know it.

The word know can mean having information, facts, or awareness of someone or something.  It can also mean being personally acquainted with someone.  There is a significant difference between knowing about a person and knowing that person intimately.

Satan and his angels know about Jesus Christ.  They know who He is, but their knowledge is not the trusting, loving relationship that comes from knowing Him as Lord and Savior. Simply recognizing who Jesus is does not mean we belong to Him.

Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God.  He is perfect in every way, the pinnacle of truth, and the only One who can reconcile us to God.  Those who know Him personally and have placed their faith in Him are born-again Christians.  They understand that Jesus is the only way to eternal life and that no other person, place, or thing can take His place.

Jesus Himself declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6).

Without Christ, we have no hope of eternal life through our own efforts.  But through faith in Him, we have the promise of a home in eternity with the One who has prepared a place for those who love Him.

Peace is knowing the answer and accepting the One who is the answer—Jesus Christ, and Him alone.

Jesus is also known as the Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6 tells us who He is: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Jesus not only tells us who He is; He also tells us what He offers to those who trust in Him.  In John 14:27, He says: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

The world offers many things that promise peace, but those things cannot provide the lasting peace that comes from knowing Jesus personally.  Circumstances may change, troubles may arise, and questions may remain unanswered, but our confidence in Him can remain steadfast.

When we know Jesus, we know where our hope lies.  When we trust Him, we can find peace even when we do not understand everything that is happening around us.

So, let me ask you: Do you merely know about Jesus, or do you know Him personally as your Lord and Savior?

The answer to that question matters more than anything this world has to offer.  For true peace is not found merely in knowing the answer.  It is found in knowing the One who is the answer.

His name is Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

I Am Blessed Beyond Measure

The five words in this title are not referring to the material things, monetary or otherwise, that God has seen fit to send my way.  Rather, I want to share some of the lessons I have learned, and am still learning each and every day, about what it takes to draw nearer to the Lord while being conformed to His image.

Sadly, these lessons are not learned overnight.  They come in due time, through the patience of the God we call Father.  Some blessings are not immediately recognized or appreciated because they reveal exactly where we need help in discovering and following God’s perfect plan for our lives.

Yes, we receive many different blessings from our Father in heaven as He supplies our needs.  But I want to share the importance of not kicking against the pricks—resisting the very things God may be using to draw us closer to Himself.  I am referring to the blessings that bring us into closer fellowship with our Maker, not just those we can see and touch, but those that change our hearts, shape our character, and draw us nearer to the Lord.

When we open our spiritual eyes and allow God to help us see beyond our natural understanding, we may discover that some of our greatest blessings came wrapped in experiences we would not have chosen for ourselves at the time.

Let’s face it: no one enjoys trials or tribulations.  I seldom ask God for patience, although I have done so in the past.  Scripture tells us in James 1:2-3, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”  Yet, it is often during these difficult times that we become more conscious of the Comforter’s presence.  The Holy Spirit comforts us and gives us another opportunity to learn spiritual lessons, grow in our faith, and draw even closer to the Creator of heaven and earth and everything in between.

You know, there is a difference between having blessings and recognizing that you are blessed.  The latter comes from a grateful heart that recognizes the goodness of God, even when life isn’t perfect.

Here’s something to consider: a person can count their blessings without realizing how many have been hiding in plain sight.  God’s benefits are not always immediately recognizable.  Sometimes, it takes looking back on our experiences to realize how much we have learned, how our character has changed, and how God has used those experiences to draw us closer to Him.  What we once viewed as a difficult season may later become a reminder of His faithfulness and the spiritual growth that came from it.

A good Scripture to consider and how we are to bless the Lord for all His benefits, regardless of how He chooses to provide them or what He desires to accomplish in our lives is found in Psalm 103:2: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

We need to bless the Lord in good times as well as bad, even when our natural understanding tells us that circumstances are anything but a blessing.  We may not immediately understand what God is doing, but He can use even our most difficult experiences to teach us, strengthen our faith, and prepare us for what lies ahead.

Perhaps being blessed isn’t always about what God places in our hands, but also about what He is doing in our hearts.  The more we learn to recognize His hand at work in our lives, the more we begin to understand that being blessed is not merely about what we receive, but also about who we are becoming in Him.

And that, my friends, is another reason I can say, “I Am Blessed Beyond Measure.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Easy as 1, 2, 3...

“Easy-peasy” is an expression most people understand.  It is an informal, playful way of saying that something is very easy or requires little effort.  As a young boy, I used this expression to show off in front of my friends when they dared me to do something they wouldn’t attempt themselves.  I would say, “Easy-peasy!”  or I might declare, “That’s easy as 1, 2, 3!”  Perhaps I was trying to reassure myself as much as my friends, hoping I wouldn’t embarrass myself if my attempt to shine ended in failure.

We can look at God’s plan of salvation in a similar way.  Scripture invites us to turn to the Lord, trust Him, and discover that He is the answer to our troubles and our lack of peace.  Psalm 34:8 encourages us, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good.”  God invites us to experience His goodness and discover for ourselves the peace and forgiveness He offers.

Isaiah 35:8 speaks of a highway called the Way of Holiness, saying that even a wayfaring person will not go astray while walking on it.  God has not made His offer of salvation impossible to understand or beyond our reach.

Accepting Jesus—the Prince of Peace—as Lord and Savior is not complicated.  We must humble ourselves before God, acknowledge our sins, and sincerely turn to Him in faith, trusting Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation.  In that sense, it is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

However, the simplicity of receiving God’s gift of salvation should never cause us to underestimate the greatness of what Christ has done for us.  Jesus died a horrific death on the cross to pay the price for our sins.  We should never take that act of love for granted.  As John 15:13 declares, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

It was certainly not easy for Jesus, God’s Son, to willingly sacrifice His life so that you and I might receive eternal life.  Yet He willingly endured the cross because of His great love for us.

Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us of this wonderful truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of your-selves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

Thanks be to God for His mercy and grace!  When all our attempts to satisfy the deep longing in our souls have left us empty, He invites us to come to Him for the peace, forgiveness, and eternal life that only He can give.  Salvation is not something we earn through our own efforts; it is God’s gift, made possible through the sacrifice of His Son.

Receiving that gift may be as easy as 1, 2, 3—but never forget what it cost Jesus to make it possible.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Christians Need Not Wallow Before God

To wallow means to roll around in mud, water, or dust, or to remain stuck in an unpleasant state or emotion.  Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit is our Comforter.  What greater hope could there be?  Think about it: The God of the universe and all creation is attentive to our cries for help.

Isaiah 59:1 tells us, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.”

Scripture also tells us in Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”

In John 14:14, Jesus says, “If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it.”

Matthew 18:19-20 also reminds us of the power of believers coming together in agreement and prayer, trusting in our Heavenly Father.

With these promises to stand on, we can resist Satan’s lies and the fear he bombards our minds with by holding firmly to the truth of God’s Word.  God cannot lie.  His Word is truth.  When He tells us to cast all our cares upon Him, He means exactly that.

We don’t have to wallow in the mud of fear, allowing the spirit of darkness to cloud our vision and keep us from recognizing the hand of God at work.  We can refuse to let our emotions control us, even when circumstances are difficult.

But let’s be real.  Sometimes it is hard to put our full trust in God when we are praying for a miracle we cannot yet see, especially when things appear grim.  Then, out of the blue, we receive consolation in our spirits and are reminded that God’s grace is sufficient for everything we face in life.

God invites us to ask, seek, and knock.  As the Holy Spirit gently ministers to our hearts, we are reminded that God is our Heavenly Father, who loves us dearly.  We can trust His wisdom, His goodness, and His care for His children.  Why should we doubt Him?  Yet, if we are honest, we sometimes do.

We may not understand why the Lord does not answer some of our prayers immediately.  Nor do we always understand why He answers in ways different from what we expected.  Nevertheless, we must remind ourselves that He knows best how and when to respond.  This is where faith enters the picture.

Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

When we speak the name of Jesus and remember who He is, we find encouragement to face our pain, sorrow, doubt, and fear.  Our confidence is not in the mere speaking of His name, but in the One whose name we call upon.  We can trust Him even when the answer has not yet come, knowing that His grace is sufficient.

We don’t have to wallow before God to get His attention.  He already hears our cries and knows our needs.  We need only to come to Him in prayer, ask in faith, and trust Him with the outcome.

God does not expect us to grovel before Him, as though we must abase ourselves to win His favor, earn His forgiveness, or gain His attention.  We are to humble ourselves before God, but we need not approach Him as though He were unwilling to hear our cries for help.  He is our loving Heavenly Father, who invites us to come to Him with our needs.  Scripture tells us that He is touched by the feelings of our infirmities.

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” — Hebrews 4:16

Written by,

Papa Boyd

A Smile Can...

Obviously, the title leaves something to the imagination.  A smile can do what?  I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase the power of suggestion.  One example that comes to mind is when I see someone yawning.  Without thinking, and before I know it, here comes a yawn of my own!  Or if someone nearby starts coughing, it sometimes seems as though I have an urge to cough, too.  That’s the power of suggestion at work.

A smile can affect another person’s mood in much the same way, often compelling them to smile back.  A smile usually begets a smile!

It’s a shame that our society seems to be becoming more hesitant when someone shows kindness or respect, or even attempts to step into another person’s three-foot, no-trespassing zone to offer a high-five in the name of friendship.  All the more reason to smile, even if the other person wonders, “What’s their angle?”

A smiling face is like the sun coming out on a dreary day.  It’s contagious and can encourage others to respond in kind.  So, what do you think a frown produces in those who see it?  Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

A smile can go a long way toward making someone’s day.  Think about this: Don’t we all like to look younger than we really are as we age?  That question may not mean much to someone who hasn’t yet turned twenty-one!  But for the most part, those of us who are getting older usually enjoy hearing comments such as, “You don’t look that old!”

I’ve heard it said that smiling uses fewer facial muscles than frowning.  Whether or not that’s true, here’s my suggestion: If we want to look younger, let’s start smiling more!

After all, aren’t Christians supposed to have the joy of the Lord in their hearts?  I believe so!  Then why don’t we smile more at those around us who may be discontented, going through hard times, or feeling discouraged?

A smile can brighten someone’s day, offer encouragement to a hurting soul, or communicate love without saying a word.

No doubt you’ve heard the familiar saying, “Smile, and the whole world smiles with you.”  While we can’t control how others respond, our smiles and the attitudes behind them can positively influence the people within our immediate sphere of influence.  In a society where so many people seem unhappy or discouraged, we can make a difference simply by making an effort to wear a smile each day.

Matthew 5:16 tells us, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

A smile may seem like a small thing, but in God’s hands, even a small act of kindness can make a difference.  So, the next time you encounter someone who looks discouraged, don’t underestimate the power of a smile.  You may never know how much that simple gesture means to them.

A smile can do more than change a face; it can help brighten a heart!

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Dark Overcast

I’ve been watching In the Eye of the Storm on television.  It amazes me to see the power of Mother Nature as a dark, overcast day can turn into a horrific tornado in a surprisingly short amount of time.  The devastation these storms leave behind is mind-boggling.

Have you ever felt as though you were living beneath a dark spiritual overcast, with the winds of calamity blowing your way?  Sometimes it feels as though our heads are going to explode if one more negative thing happens.  The turmoil can mount with each new occurrence, leaving us feeling overwhelmed by circumstances beyond our control.

But as Christians, we have the Lord to lean upon during times like these.  The Holy Spirit comforts our hearts and speaks peace to our troubled souls.  I believe most of us have experienced this kind of pressure at one time or another.

There’s nothing like a splitting headache to make a person’s day!  But seriously, this kind of pressure reminds me of the orange juice squeezer my mother used when I was young.  She believed a glass of orange juice each morning would help ward off the colds and flu that circulated among the children at school.

I know I’m dating myself, but her squeezer had a long handle that she pressed down to extract the juice from the orange halves.  I can still picture the pressure she applied to those oranges.  It makes me think of those times when life’s pressures seem to squeeze us from every direction.

Getting back to those dark, overcast days when the pressures of life seem unbearable, we need not face them alone or depend solely upon our own strength.  We can cast every one of our cares upon the Lord.  This is the enduring hope available to every Christian: we have a Savior who cares about what we are going through and invites us to bring our burdens to Him.

1 Peter 5:7 reminds us: “Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you.”

The next time you feel the onset of another dark overcast beginning to form, stop and listen.  Take a moment to consider what God may be speaking to your heart.  Then rest in Him, surrendering your circumstances and your will to His care.  Let your prayer be: “Not my will, but Yours be done.  In the name of Jesus, deliver me.”

Even when the storm clouds gather and the pressure mounts, remember that you do not have to weather the storm alone.  The Lord is our refuge when the skies grow dark, our peace when the winds howl, and our strength when we feel we can bear no more.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Home at Last

Jesus told a parable about a lost son in Luke 15:11-32.  The younger of two sons said to his father, “Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.”  The father divided to him his livelihood.  A while later, the son gathered his belongings and set off for a distant country.  After living a riotous lifestyle and eventually finding himself starving, he came to his senses and headed back home.

From a father’s perspective, I can only imagine what was going through the mind of the boy’s father when he saw a familiar-looking figure in the distance.  I picture the boy with his head bowed low, as if the weight of the whole world rested on his shoulders.  I can almost hear the father exclaiming aloud, “Could it be?  It looks like…!  It’s him!”  I imagine he could hardly believe his eyes.

Even though his son had left home and squandered his inheritance on riotous living, none of that mattered now.  His boy had finally returned!  The son hoped that his father might at least allow him to become one of the household servants in exchange for something to eat.  He was home at last!

He is known as the prodigal son.  Rather than rejecting him for leaving home and wasting his wealth, his father was overjoyed and ran to meet him with open arms.  He had compassion on his son, embraced him, and kissed him.

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick!  Bring the best robe and put it on him.  Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.’”

His father then had a feast prepared in his son’s honor.  The one who had been lost was now found.  His wandering son was home at last!

Likewise, when a wayward individual finally recognizes the depths of their sinful condition, comes to Father God with a repentant heart, and asks Him for forgiveness, God welcomes that person into His family with open arms.  He lifts the burden of sin from their shoulders because He cares deeply for them.

I can relate to the prodigal son.  I, too, reached the end of my rope, needing to feel the loving embrace of my Heavenly Father.  He did just that.  It is called amazing grace!

God does not reject a sincere, remorseful heart that seeks His forgiveness.  Instead, He welcomes the repentant sinner with love, mercy, and grace.

One day, all of God’s children will rejoice at the great celebration in heaven made possible through Jesus Christ, who opened the way for believers to enter into the joy of the Lord.  What a glorious day that will be when the family of God is gathered together in His presence!

The day is coming when every redeemed child of God will be home at last!

(Revelation 21:3-4), “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people.  God Himself will be with them and be their God.’” (vs 4) “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.  There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Amazing Grace...

The name Grace is quite lovely.  It means “kindness,” “elegance,” or “God’s favor.”  I would like to think that individuals named Grace are amazing people with pleasing personalities.  My mind immediately goes to the little girl who lives a few houses down from us.  Every time she and her mom or dad walk by while my wife and I are outside in front of our home, she stops and strikes up a conversation with us.

She’s adorable!  Her little personality draws you in, making you want to hear what she has to say.  She is an amazing little girl, full of kindness, but so are her mother and father.  And yes, her name is Grace.

Allow me to explore with you the deeper meaning of the word grace.  I’m not talking about the female name Grace, but something far more profound.  When I think of the song “Amazing Grace,” I am reminded of the wonderful gift God offers to each of us.  It is fitting that we take a closer look at the biblical meaning of these two words and better understand the impact God’s amazing grace can have on our lives.

God’s grace is more than a beautiful expression.  It is His undeserved favor toward us, freely given because of His love.  This grace reaches into the depths of our souls, bringing forgiveness, renewal, and transformation.  It can change our behavior, shape our personalities, influence the way we interact with others, and, most importantly, bring about a new life in Christ.

What do I mean when I speak of the renewal of our souls?  I am referring to the transformation that takes place when we repent of our sins, confess them to God, and receive His forgiveness through Jesus Christ.  As Scripture tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, when we are in Christ, we become a new creation.  The old life passes away, and a new life begins.

We do not deserve this gift.  We cannot earn it through our good deeds or become worthy of it through our own efforts.  God extends His mercy and grace because He loves us.  Through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ, we can receive the gift of salvation and become children of God, born again through the work of His Spirit.

Consider what Jesus did for us.  He willingly gave His life on the cross of Calvary, bearing the penalty for our sins and making a way for us to be reconciled to God.  He took our place, paying the price for our redemption so that we might receive forgiveness and eternal life.

God’s amazing grace does not merely forgive us; it begins to transform us.  When we turn away from our sinful ways and surrender our lives to Jesus Christ, His work within us begins to show outwardly.  We become more mindful of how we treat others.  Kindness becomes more than a pleasant personality trait.  We learn to forgive others because God has forgiven us.  Love becomes more than words we speak.  These things begin to reflect the work God is doing in our hearts.

This does not mean that we become perfect overnight.  Rather, as we continue walking with the Lord, He teaches us, corrects us, and shapes us into the people He desires us to be.

Perhaps the little girl named Grace, with her sweet personality and kindness, can serve as a gentle reminder of a much greater grace.  While a person’s name may remind us of kindness, God’s amazing grace offers us something far more wonderful: forgiveness for our sins, a new beginning, and the opportunity to become more like Jesus.

That is the amazing grace of God—His unmerited, undeserved favor freely offered to us through Jesus Christ.  We need only come to Him in repentance and faith, trusting in His Son as our Lord and Savior.

Amazing grace, indeed!

Ephesians 2:8-10, captures my full attention when I read these Scriptures: “For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,” (vs 9) “not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (vs 10) “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

We Can Afford to Be Generous...

If we find ourselves withholding God’s love from people who need it, failing to minister to them as we should, I believe it is much like deliberately turning our backs on someone about to step into traffic at a crosswalk because they failed to see the sign that reads WAIT!  We might hesitate because we fear being accused of something bizarre.  Or imagine a nurse or doctor walking away from someone who needs CPR simply because they are too busy or have a pressing dinner engagement.  Would we consider that acceptable?

I ask myself, “Am I becoming so occupied with the cares of life that I fail to take a moment to share the good news that God loves the unlovable?  Do I hesitate because someone smells unpleasant or appears unkempt?”  If we see a house engulfed in flames but refuse to call 911 because we fear being charged for emergency services, would that not be wrong?

These are just a few examples of the importance of giving of ourselves when opportunities arise to help others, even when doing so costs us something.

What is a soul worth, anyway?

All of heaven rejoices when a sinner turns to Jesus and is born again.  Think about this: Even if you or I had been the only person who had ever sinned, Jesus would still have gone to the cross to make our salvation possible.  That is how deeply He loves us.  That is how precious one soul is to God.  And that is how precious you are to Him.

If our efforts to share Christ could help even one person find the way to heaven rather than remain on the road to destruction, would those efforts not be worth it?

Sometimes, we need to shake ourselves awake from the humdrum, lethargic state that can overtake us.  When we find ourselves growing weary in spirit, we need to refocus and look around us.  Many people are groping for hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances.

Every once in a while, I hear the phrase “Proof of Life” on television.  I believe that when we look beyond our own safe havens and make ourselves available for God to use, things can happen.  Lives can be saved!

We will begin to recognize the signs of spiritual death taking hold through drug abuse, alcoholism, and the many other vices that destroy lives.  These things rob people of the joy and purpose that God intends for them, leaving them vulnerable to the one who goes about like a roaring lion. 

1 Peter 5:8 tells us: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

If we need to shake ourselves awake so that we can see more clearly those who are hurting and minister to those who need spiritual CPR, then we need to do so.

If we need to extend a helping hand or offer an arm of support to someone in danger of being pushed into calamity and spiritual destruction by Satan, then we need to do so.

If we need to grab the water hose of salvation, so to speak, and help extinguish the flames of deception arising from spiritual wickedness in the shadows of darkness, then we need to do so.

We must be willing instruments in God’s hands, speaking words of encouragement and extending His hands to others by sharing spiritual food with hungry souls.  We must tell them that Jesus died for their sins and that forgiveness and new life are available through Him.

We have so much love within us that we can afford to be generous with it.  God’s love is without end—boundless, infinite, and merciful.  Whoever comes to Him in repentance, He will not cast aside.  Instead, He welcomes those who turn to Him into His family, adopting them as His sons and daughters.  He loves them with an everlasting Father’s love.

God is generous with His blessings and does not withhold good things from His children.  Matthew 7:11 reminds us: “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him.”

If earthly fathers know how to give good gifts to their children, how much greater is the love of our heavenly Father!

God has been generous with us, extending His love and grace and cleansing us from all unrighteousness.  Should we not be willing to extend that same love and grace to others?

We can afford to be generous—not because we have an endless supply of our own goodness, but because the love God has poured into our hearts is more than enough to share.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

A Paculiar People

What is peculiar?  I looked up the meaning of the word so that we could begin on the same page regarding the focus I want to present in this writing.  The word peculiar primarily means strange, odd, unusual, or uncommon.  It can also mean belonging exclusively to a particular person, group, or thing.  For clarity’s sake, let us focus on the latter meaning, particularly as it relates to a person or group.

In Scripture, the phrase a peculiar people refers to God’s special possession—a people who belong to Him.  It does not mean people who live without a moral compass to guide them in the ways of righteousness.  Some live according to the dictates of their fleshly desires, believing that if something feels good, that is all that matters.  They would rather rebel against God than abide by His statutes.

But I prefer not to spotlight our attention on those who are running from God’s love.  The message I hope to convey is that it is okay to be different.  We do not have to look, sound, or behave like the general public around us simply to fit in or meet everyone else’s expectations.  Too often, society promotes a self-centered, me, me, me mentality that seems more prevalent than ever.

Let’s face it: Christians are a peculiar people.  We are called to turn away from the empty promises of worldly pleasures and the turmoil and discord that accompany a life contrary to God’s Word.  Our calling runs counter to a world that often embraces what conflicts with the holiness of Jesus Christ.

Those who follow Jesus’ teachings are pilgrims passing through this present world, looking toward a heavenly home not made with hands.  Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for His own.  What a glorious promise for God’s children—for those who have been born again and have accepted Jesus Christ, God’s Son, as their Lord and Savior!

1 Peter 2:9 declares: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

Being a peculiar people does not mean Christians should deliberately act strangely to attract attention.  Rather, our lives should reflect that we belong to the Lord.  Our values, conduct, speech, and choices should distinguish us from the ways of the world whenever those ways conflict with God’s Word.

We do not become God’s peculiar people merely because we are different from the world.  We are to be different because we belong to Him.

Can people recognize that we belong to Christ by the way we live, even before we tell them we are Christians?

Consider what this looks like in our daily lives: loving instead of hating, forgiving instead of seeking revenge, walking in truth rather than deception, and living in holiness rather than accepting sin.  We are called to follow Christ even when doing so makes us different from those around us.

We are a peculiar people—not because we strive to be different, but because we belong to the One who has called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Maranatha--The Word Is Out!

I remember years ago when “the word” was on the lips of many Christians.  A song was even written about it.  The word is Maranatha!  But what does Maranatha mean, you may be wondering?

I haven’t heard this word spoken or sermons preached about it in quite some time, but that does not alter or negate the reality of what it points to.  Maranatha is commonly understood as “Our Lord, come!”  or “The Lord is coming.”  Although translations and interpretations may vary slightly, the message of longing for our Lord’s coming remains.

This word has nothing to do with what the world has to offer, but everything to do with the promise of Jesus Christ returning for His own—to receive His bride, the church of the living God, made up of born-again believers.  Expressions such as “caught up” and “the Rapture” have been used to describe this anticipated event.

A few days ago, the title of this writing, “The Word Is Out,” came to mind.  I jotted it down in my phone’s Reminders, anticipating that thoughts pertaining to those four words would come to me sometime in the future.  They did!

Today, I scanned my reminders and saw the title.  Immediately, the word Maranatha came to mind like a drumbeat.  I hadn’t thought about this word in years, but there it was!

In 1 Corinthians 16:22, we read, “If anyone does not love the Lord, he is to be accursed.  Maranatha!”  The word expresses the longing, “Our Lord, come!”

Our love for Jesus Christ is not a minor detail of our faith; it is central to it.  And the expectation of His coming reminds us that our relationship with Him is a matter of eternal importance.

I believe this writing may mark a renewed emphasis on the fact that Jesus is coming again.  Maranatha!

We need to get the word out and spread the good news of His coming like never before.  When people ask what Maranatha means, the explanation can open the door to witnessing about God’s amazing grace and everlasting love.

Most importantly, we need to share the story of redemption—that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins and made a way for us to be reconciled to God.  We should also encourage others to be ready for His return in all His glory, recognizing that the event we anticipate is not something to take lightly or postpone preparing for.

Every Christian needs to get the word out.

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’  Amen.  Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” — Revelation 22:20

What a beautiful promise to hold close to our hearts!  May we be found faithful, walking in His ways, sharing His love, and looking forward to His glorious appearing.

Maranatha—our Lord, come!

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Wherever I Go, He's There...

Can anyone be in two places at the same time?  A simple “no” answers that.  So, how is it that God can be everywhere at the same time?  He just is—He’s God.  He is omnipresent, meaning He is everywhere at the same time.

If anyone can provide understandable answers that clarify the unknowns in my head, I want them to write a book of explanations, and I’ll buy one.  Oh, wait!  There’s already a book in print addressing God’s omnipresence (present everywhere), omnipotence (all-powerful), and omniscience (all-knowing)—the Holy Bible!  It provides answers to many of our questions, guidance for those wandering aimlessly through a self-indulgent, self-induced wilderness of want, and help for those desiring a closer walk with God.

There is nowhere we can go beyond God’s presence.  Whether we find ourselves in a place of joy, sorrow, uncertainty, or loneliness, we are never beyond His reach.  We may sometimes feel alone, but feeling alone does not mean we are alone.  God’s presence is not limited by our circumstances or our feelings.  

Jeremiah 23:23-24 tells us: “ ‘Am I a God who is only close at hand?’ says the Lord.  ‘No, I am far away at the same time.  Can anyone hide from me in a secret place?  Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth?’  says the Lord.”

If God fills heaven and earth, His presence is not something we must find our way into as though He were far away.  Rather, we can turn our hearts toward Him, wherever we are.

This is a sobering thought, yet it is also a comforting truth—one that gives us confidence, strengthens our trust, and assures us that we are never beyond God’s reach.  We can bring our prayers, concerns, and innermost thoughts before Him, knowing that nothing is hidden from His sight.

Psalm 139:7-10 tells us: “I can never escape from Your Spirit!  I can never get away from Your presence!  If I go up to heaven, You are there; if I go down to the grave, You are there.  If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there Your hand will guide me, and Your strength will support me.”

What more could we ask for?  God loves us dearly, and He invites us to draw near to Him.  He is there to love us, care for us, guide us, and be involved in every aspect of our lives.

Wherever we go, whatever we face, and however alone we may feel, God is there.  We cannot escape His presence, nor do we need to search for Him as though He were beyond our reach.  The God who fills heaven and earth is also the God who invites us into a personal relationship with Him.  What a wonderful assurance to carry with us each day: wherever I go, He’s there!

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Awakened to Life

It was a wonderful, life-changing experience the night I surrendered my will to God’s will.  In a moment of time, after asking Him to forgive my sins, I experienced an awakening of my dormant soul.  I had been like a dead man walking—lifeless, with passive ideas about life and blindness to boot.

I couldn’t see what God, through His Holy Spirit, had been showing me about His love for many years.  But I rejected the warmth of His love, choosing instead to allow the cold, dank surroundings of sin to encapsulate my soul like a tomb or crypt.

To put it bluntly, so that you understand exactly where my emotions and state of mind were at that time, I was like one of those skeletons you see at Halloween outside someone’s house—dead man’s bones—without life.  That’s how I was before the joy of the Lord filled me.

To see me then, without God in my life, compared to now, with Him in my life, would be like heaven and hell.  The comparison goes without saying.

Was I perfect in every way that night when salvation entered my soul?  I think not.  It has been a process of putting off the old man with his old ideas of trying to make sense out of life, and putting on the new man, with the Holy Spirit prompting me as to what is godly and what is not.

It’s like the old saying: “Inch by inch, anything’s a cinch.”

I have been learning that I don’t need ungodly things to make it seem as though I was happy for a time, while being full of confusion.  Instead, I’m finding that the things of God bring lasting peace and harmony.

There is a word that may explain it better.  The word is sanctification.

What is sanctification?  In the Bible, sanctification means being set apart for God and made holy for His purposes.  When a person comes to Christ, he or she is set apart as belonging to God.  But sanctification is also an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer—a lifelong process in which God changes us from the inside out, teaching us to turn away from sin and increasingly reflect the character of Christ.

Paul writes, “You are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” — 1 Corinthians 1:30.  And Scripture tells us that “this is the will of God, your sanctification” (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

I believe sanctification is the ongoing process of learning more about God, desiring more of Him, and becoming more like Christ as the Holy Spirit works within us.  It means gradually letting go of the things that once had a hold on our lives—things that were sucking the life out of us and, in a sense, producing dead man’s bones.

It doesn’t mean that we become perfect overnight.  It means that, day by day, God continues His work in us.  Inch by inch, step by step, the Holy Spirit teaches us, corrects us, strengthens us, and draws us closer to God.

And if God is for us, who can ultimately be against us?

No one and nothing can compare to the power, love, and presence of God.  His forgiveness reaches as far as the east is from the west, and His greatness extends beyond anything our finite minds can comprehend.

That is what it means to be awakened to life—not simply to have been changed once, but to continue being changed by God, inch by inch, day by day.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Light or Dark?

I’m not talking about color schmes, whether they lean toward light or dark hues, nor am I visualizing someone’s hair color—blond or brunette.  And I’m not talking about separating the light-colored clothes from the dark ones when doing the laundry.

Here’s another angle to consider: Perhaps you or someone you know has experienced the need for a soft light shining in the bedroom at night because of a fear of the dark.

Or consider this: Dark, dank, and dreary days are just that—dark, dank, and dreary.  They can be somewhat depressing at times, especially when I was a kid wanting to go outside and play.  But my susceptibility to colds and winter illnesses made that a difficult decision for my parents.  They wanted to say yes but were compelled to keep me indoors for health reasons.  It seemed I was allergic to everything—my allergies were allergic to my allergies!

I was even allergic to my own hair when Dad would cut it.  I would start sneezing and coughing, my eyes would begin to tear up, and, depending on how long it took Dad to finish, I would sometimes start wheezing.

I was a different boy altogether when the sun shone brightly on a warm summer’s day.  I loved seeing the sunshine outside!  My parents had fewer worries about my being exposed to whatever illnesses might be going around.  I had my fair share of hospital stays because of allergies and asthma.

But enough about my woes.  God brought me through it all!  Today, I’m very healthy, with no allergies or asthma to speak of.

Let’s explore, for a moment, the difference between light and darkness in the spiritual realm.

The Bible tells us that our struggle is not merely against what we can see in the natural world.  Ephesians 6:12 explains that we wrestle against spiritual forces of darkness: “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.”

We may not see these spiritual forces, but we must remain alert to their influence.  Just as allergies can affect our physical well-being, temptation and spiritual deception can affect our spiritual health if we are not watchful.

The Word of God provides the strength and wisdom we need to stand firm against the enemy of our souls.  It is the light we need to see clearly in the darkness and to keep us from fearing what we cannot see—much like the nightlight I mentioned earlier.

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” — Psalm 119:105

The three words in our title, Light or Dark, are words we need to consider carefully rather than simply let them pass through our minds without a second thought.  When we face a situation that brings this question to mind, we need to Stop, Look, and Listen to what is happening around us and within us.  Could we be facing a spiritual struggle that requires discernment?

Is it a temptation that could turn a day spent walking with the Lord into one overshadowed by the enemy’s influence?  Could we be allowing darkness to creep in where God’s light should be shining?

For me, I choose to walk in the light of God’s love rather than dwell in an atmosphere of darkness that promotes fear and dread.  The light of God’s love nurtures us in mind, body, and spirit as we keep our hearts and minds fixed on Him.

The dark, dreary surroundings of life can discourage us and weigh us down, but we do not have to allow them to determine how we walk through each day.  The light of God’s love will never dim, and His truth will continue to guide us as long as we keep our eyes on His Son.

Through Him, we can live victoriously, warmed and strengthened by the light of His unfailing love.

So, when life presents you with a choice, remember to ask yourself: Light or Dark?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

I Was, but Now I'm Not

What in the world am I talking about in the title?  Stick with me.  These six words cover a lot of territory.

I was lost, but now I’m found.

I was a sinner, but now I’m saved by God’s grace.

I was bound by habits, but now I’m not, because Jesus broke the chains that held me fast.

He gave His life on a cross for you, me, and all of humanity, so that we might be set free from Satan’s grasp and enjoy a life of freedom.

I was miserable, but now I’m not, because Christ filled me with His love.

Like the song says, “It is joy unspeakable and full of glory.  And the half has never yet been told.”

Let me say this: Since I bowed my knees before God late one lonely night, my life has never been the same.  I was seeking some kind of lasting stability in my life.  Peace was certainly not following me down the path I had chosen to travel.  Peace evaded my every attempt to find it.

True and lasting peace is not offered or found in the things of this world.  The things of this world are passing fancies—counterfeits for the real answer to life’s quest for peace and happiness.

Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace.  He alone offers the peace that a searching soul longs for when it calls upon His name.

“So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” — John 8:36

I was one of those people who finally realized I needed something more out of life than the life I was living—something or Someone.

Clarity and purpose for living became clear before my very eyes the moment I surrendered my life to God.  The Holy Spirit quenched my inward thirst to belong and filled my hungry soul with His love.

I was once a needy and cantankerous individual, but now I’m not.

Jesus made all the difference in my life.

I was lost, but now I’m found.

I was bound, but now I’m free.

I was miserable, but now I have joy.

I was searching, but now I have found the One I was searching for.

I was—but now I’m not.

Jesus changed my life, and He can do the same for you if yo are searching for newness of life.

Confess your sins before God, turn to Him, and receive Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.  There really is hope for a changed life—because there is hope in Jesus Christ.

Written by,

Papa Boyd