Don't Lose Sight of the Goal

When a person is bombarded from every direction by problems, disappointments, and ongoing struggles, their emotional stability is put to the test.  The ability to endure life’s storms depends largely upon one’s inner strength, resilience, and determination to persevere.  In times of turmoil, a dependable source of support becomes invaluable, helping us maintain clarity of mind and stability of purpose.

This raises an important question: What is mental acuity, and how does it affect our ability to stay focused on the goals that matter most?

One definition states:

“Mental acuity refers to the sharpness, clarity, and overall efficiency of the mind.  It represents a person’s cognitive ability to process information quickly, focus on relevant tasks, recall details, and make sound decisions.”

I believe the concept of visual acuity complements this definition beautifully:

“Visual acuity is the clarity and sharpness of your vision.  Specifically, it measures your eye’s ability to resolve and distinguish fine details and shapes at a set distance.”

So where am I going with this?

Just as our physical vision can become blurred, our spiritual vision can also lose focus.  When life’s difficulties pile up, it becomes easy to lose sight of the goals we once held firmly before us.  Mental distractions, discouragements, and what I often call “mind clutter” can obscure our sense of direction.  When we fail to discipline our thoughts and fail to focus on things that are true, noble, and good, our priorities can become distorted.

This can affect every area of life—our educational aspirations, vocational decisions, relationships, financial stewardship, and most importantly, our spiritual walk with God.

Let us focus on that last area.

I believe every Christian’s ultimate goal is to make heaven their eternal home.  Of all the goals we pursue in this life, none is more important.  Yet it is also the goal most fiercely opposed.  The distractions of this world, the pressures of daily living, and the attacks of the enemy all seek to divert our attention away from what truly matters.

Maintaining spiritual focus requires effort.  It requires keeping our mental and spiritual acuity aligned with God’s truth.  If we are not careful, the noise of life can crowd out the voice of God and gradually push our heavenly objective into the background.

I was speaking with my wife recently about her father.  He held a strong conviction regarding the doctrine commonly known as “once saved, always saved.”  I understand there are sincere Christians who interpret Scripture differently, and I respect those differences.  The term backsliding is often used when discussing a believer’s spiritual failures or periods of drifting away from God.

While my perspective may not be shared by everyone, allow me to explain what I have come to believe.

I know there is One who walks beside me and dwells within me.  He has promised that He will never leave me nor forsake me.  His name is Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.

That promise has become the anchor of my soul.

Hebrews 13:5 assures us of His abiding presence, and I refuse to allow doubt to undermine what God Himself has declared.  Why should I believe the accusations of darkness when I possess the promises of God?  The Lord has spoken and He cannot lie.

The moment I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ, I became His.  I was adopted into His family and brought under His care.  Do we really believe that Christ endured the agony of Calvary, suffered rejection, bore our sins, and laid down His life only to abandon us whenever we stumble?  Absolutely not.

God forgives those who sincerely repent and seek His mercy.  Through faith in Christ, we become His children.  As earthly parents, we do not cease loving our children when they fail.  We may correct them.  We may discipline them.  But we do not disown them because of their mistakes.

How much more does our Heavenly Father love those who belong to Him?

Those who have been born again are not merely servants of God; they are His sons and daughters.  Their relationship with Him is founded upon His grace, sustained by His faithfulness, and secured by His promises.

The apostle Paul expressed this confidence in 2 Timothy 1:12: “…For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that Day.”

Those words resonate deeply with me.

There are moments when believers fall flat on their faces spiritually.  In those moments, Satan is quick to whisper lies: “God is finished with you.  You’ve gone too far.  You’ve failed too badly.  There is no way back.”

Yet those accusations stand in direct opposition to the character of God.

The enemy seeks to steal peace, destroy confidence, and replace faith with fear.  He wants believers to doubt the very promises that God has sworn to uphold.  While he may try relentlessly, he cannot change the truth of God’s Word.

Romans 8:38-39 is a promise I stand on: “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love.  Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.  No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

When we fail—and at times we all do—we should immediately turn to God in repentance, asking Him to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  Such faith in God’s mercy is not a license to sin; rather, it is an expression of trust in His grace.

The Scriptures remind us that God disciplines those He loves.  His correction is not evidence of rejection but proof of His fatherly care.  He teaches us through our failures, helping us grow in wisdom and obedience.

God desires that we live in fellowship with Him, free from the constant burden of condemnation and fear.  He is patient, compassionate, gentle, and long-suffering.  He desires that we walk in victory, not defeat; in confidence, not despair.

This is grace.

Grace is God reaching down when we cannot lift ourselves up.  Grace is His mercy triumphing over our failures.  Grace is His unwavering commitment to complete the work He began in us.  For that, I can only say: Thank You, Lord, for Your mercy and grace.

We need not live in fear that God will cast us aside.  Scripture declares that “perfect love casts out fear.”  Fear loses its power when we understand the depth of God’s love and the certainty of His promises.  Therefore, do not lose sight of the goal.

Allow the Holy Spirit to preserve your spiritual 20/20 vision when circumstances attempt to cloud your perspective.  Refuse to allow doubt, discouragement, or the lies of the enemy to dominate your thinking.  Bring every thought into obedience to Christ and continue moving forward in faith.

Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.  Keep placing one foot in front of the other.  Keep moving toward the destination God has prepared for you.

As we do, our mental and spiritual acuity remains strong because our focus remains clear.  We can face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that God cares for us, walks with us, and faithfully guides us toward our eternal home.

No matter what obstacles arise, no matter what Satan may attempt to tell us, never lose sight of the goal.  Heaven is worth the journey.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Whisper

After hearing the whisper of the Holy Spirit beckoning me to come to Him, I responded to that call and became a Christian in my early twenties.  What I had learned about the love of Jesus from a dedicated Sunday school teacher in seventh grade finally came to fruition later in life.

As a new believer, I led several of my closest friends to the Lord after they witnessed the change God had made in me.  Where once I had been lost and broken, I now carried a smile on my face and the message of redemption in my heart.  After hearing the good news that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, those whom I had been witnessing to accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Before leaving my apartment one day, I remember one of them saying, “I don’t have to look up to you any longer.  I’ve got what you’ve got.”  He was referring to the freedom he felt from the burden of sin.  It was not me he was exalting, but the One who now lived within him—the same Spirit he had seen at work in my life.  He, too, had heard the whisper of the Holy Spirit calling his name and convicting him of his sins.

He was filled with joy because of his encounter with the loving God who delivered him from the bondage of sin.  He had experienced the new birth and was born again.  Like me, the weight of the sins he had carried was lifted from his shoulders.  He could breathe freely because God had saved his soul.  No longer did he live under condemnation for his past life.  He was set free and experienced complete victory the day Jesus became his Savior.

Romans 8:1 declares, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

God gave me many opportunities to share His grace and forgiveness with others, both in groups and one-on-one conversations.  Those who accepted Jesus as their Savior were transformed in a moment when they surrendered their lives to God.

God’s Word does not return void (Isaiah 55:11).  When we share the good news that Jesus, God’s Son, gave His life on the cross for our sins, that message—the seed of salvation planted in a person’s heart—will one day bear fruit.  I believe God often sends other Christians to water that seed with His Word.  Then, sometime in the future, another believer may share the message of Christ’s love and reap the harvest of a soul that has been longing for the true and lasting peace that only God can provide.

The truths I shared from God’s Word may one day be brought back to remembrance by the Holy Spirit to those with whom I shared Jesus.  In this way, God’s Word never returns void.  God works in mysterious ways, performing wonders beyond our understanding.  Many who seem indifferent today may one day respond to the whisper of the Holy Spirit, repent, and come to Jesus as He gently moves upon their hearts.

I share these thoughts because I do not want you to become discouraged when someone refuses to give their heart to the Lord after you have shared the gospel with them.  The Holy Spirit is the One who draws people to God—we do not.  Christians are simply vessels through whom the Lord speaks.  We cannot save anyone; we can only share the truth of God’s Word and then trust the Lord to do what only He can do.

We should never become overzealous or self-righteous in our witness, as such attitudes can drive people away from the truth.  Our desire should be to help those who are searching for answers find them, not to repel them.  We must be sensitive to what God wants us to say to those who are lost.  We should always pray that God would place a guard over our mouths so that we speak only what He desires, rather than speaking from pride or appearing holier than others.  In doing so, we become faithful instruments through whom His love, grace, and truth can be revealed.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Starting Point

I enjoyed playing sports in high school, especially football and basketball.  Being 6’3” tall, my basketball coach often played me at center.  I was tall and lean, which made it easier to jump higher than many opposing players.  I also competed in track and field, running the half-mile (880-yard run).  Although the race was challenging, my endurance and long stride helped me win and place in many of the meets in which I competed.

My success in those races opened the door for me to compete in the DVAL Championships, where the best runners faced one another.  Getting mentally prepared at the starting point of each race became an important routine.  I tried not to focus on how long and grueling the half-mile would be, but rather on how I would run the race.  It’s too long to be a sprint and too short to settle into a comfortable pace.  You have to push yourself almost the entire way.

My goal was always to finish strong and earn the reward that awaited at the finish line.  I ran to the best of my ability, hoping to experience what athletes call a “second wind”—that remarkable moment when someone who is exhausted and out of breath suddenly finds renewed strength to continue performing at a high level with less effort.

At the starting line, all the runners had shed their warm-up sweats and heavy tennis shoes.  Everyone stripped down to the essentials: lightweight running shorts and jerseys, along with featherweight track shoes.  I was usually filled with anticipation, excitement, and wonder as I waited for the race to begin, wondering what the outcome would be when I crossed the finish line.

The Bible compares our walk with God to running a race.  Hebrews 12 tells us to throw off the things that weigh us down and to run with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus.

Scripture encourages believers to persevere in their faith, running with endurance the greatest race of all. 

(Hebrews 12:1-3), “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

When the Holy Spirit convicted me to lay down the heavy burden of sin I had been carrying, I chose to enter the race that leads to heaven, where I would one day receive the crown of righteousness promised to those who endure and finish well.

(2 Timothy 4:7), “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.

As I continue running this spiritual race, I am reminded of my track coach cheering me on from the sidelines—his voice loud and clear as I pushed toward the finish line.  In much the same way, the Holy Spirit encourages me: “Keep running!  Don’t quit!  You’re going to make it!”

The starting point of this race was the moment I asked God to forgive my sins.  I still remember the place, the month, and the year when I began my journey toward the ultimate goal—heaven—the greatest reward of any race I have ever run.  It is a journey that began when I met Jesus Christ.  He has been my faithful traveling companion for many years, and I do not regret a single mile we have traveled together.

Today, we are blessed to have GPS systems and road maps to guide us so we do not lose our way.  Yet even greater than these is the Bible, God’s spiritual roadmap.  It guides us into all truth and leads us safely to our final destination—heaven.

Written by, 

Papa Boyd

His Gift to Us

When I was growing up, I could hardly wait for Christmas to arrive.  It wasn’t because I received a lot of gifts, but because the two or three presents I did receive were deeply appreciated.  My parents sometimes struggled to make ends meet, yet they always did their best to make Christmas special.  There was a Christmas tree, decorations, and a sense of joy that filled our home.

After all, December 25 is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.  Because of who He is, everything should be festive and filled with gratitude.  God gave the greatest gift of all when He sent His only begotten Son, who would one day die on the cross for the sins of mankind.  This priceless gift of love was given freely to you and to me.

Jesus did not come in a beautifully wrapped package with a bow on top.  He was born in a stable, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a manger—a feeding trough used for livestock.  It became His makeshift crib because there was no room for His family at the inn.

The phrase “swaddling clothes” refers to bands of cloth traditionally used to wrap newborn babies.  From what I have read, these were not rags but customary Middle Eastern cloth strips used to comfort infants, regulate their body temperature, and help them adjust to life outside the womb.  This was a common practice throughout the ancient world.

His birth was certainly a humble beginning for the King of kings and Lord of lords—the One whom God sent to become the Savior of all humanity.  His gift to us was given out of compassion and love for lost souls who were destined for eternal separation from Him.

Thank God for Jesus and for His saving power to forgive sin.  Through faith in Him, we are welcomed into God’s family and can be called His children.  What a wonderful gift God has given us through His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Vices Dredged Out of the Shadow

Vices Dredged Out of the Shadow—where does such a title lead us?  Perhaps the answer lies within the meaning of the word dredge itself.  Dredging is the process of removing mud, silt, and debris from the bottom of waterways so that vessels may pass safely and freely through them.

Before I came to faith in Jesus Christ and stepped into the light of God’s grace and mercy, I lived beneath the shadow of destructive vices.  They affected not only my physical health but also my spiritual well-being.  Day after day, unhealthy choices accumulated like silt on the floor of a channel.  Over time, the debris of sin built up, obstructing the flow of the living water that God desired to pour into my thirsty soul.

My spirit longed for something greater.  Beneath the weight of accumulated sin, I yearned for a deeper relationship with God.  Yet the channel was clogged.  The mud and sediment of sinful habits had become spiritual hazards, preventing me from navigating the narrow way that leads to eternal life.

Then the Divine Dredger—the Holy Spirit—began His work.

With patient love and transforming power, He exposed what had settled in the hidden places of my heart.  He dredged away the layers of pride, selfishness, compromise, and other vices that had accumulated over the years.  What I could never remove on my own, He faithfully cleared away through conviction, grace, and repentance.

As God removes the debris of sin from our lives, the shadows begin to retreat.  We gain spiritual clarity.  We see more clearly where we have been, where we are, and where God is leading us.  The obstacles that once hindered our progress no longer control our direction.  The channel is reopened, and our lives begin to flow according to His purpose.

The glorious light of Jesus Christ dispels every shadow cast by sin.  What once obstructed our journey is removed, and what once blinded our vision is overcome by His truth.  Through Christ, we are free to move forward in the pathway God has prepared for His children.

This is the miracle of the new birth.  Through faith in Jesus Christ, we become new creations.  The old debris is removed, and a new life begins.  We walk in the freedom, purpose, and hope that only He can provide.

Jesus paid the price for our sins upon the cross.  He died for you, for me, and for all humanity.  Because of His sacrifice, the channel to God is open, the shadows are scattered, and the living water flows freely once again.

May we continually allow the Holy Spirit to dredge the hidden places of our hearts, removing every vice that seeks to hinder our walk with God, so that we may travel faithfully in the light of Christ until we reach our eternal home.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

What a Difference a Day Makes

The older I get, the more I realize how quickly life is slipping by.  Yet I am growing older gracefully, and I say that because I have been saved by God’s grace.

One day I was deep in sin; the next, I was saved from it—no longer walking in defeat.  What a difference a day makes.

The Lord has been gracious and merciful to me for many years.  As I think back on my childhood, it seems like one day I was playing cowboys and Indians with my neighborhood friends, as we called it back then, and before I could blink twice, I was older and playing army with my buddies.  What a difference a day makes.

The headband and feathers were put away, along with the plastic tomahawk I had traded a friend for and the Native American armbands my mother sent away for using a few quarters and cereal box tops.  Soon, cap guns found their place in my toy box.

Before long, I received my driver’s license—a day I thought would never come.  Looking back, however, it arrived much too quickly, just as time always seems to do.

Before I knew it, I was married, and almost as quickly, my wife and I were raising three children.  I watched with fascination as they repeated many of the same things I had done growing up.

Today, I am Papa to six grandchildren, and just as quickly, I may one day become Papa to their children if the Lord allows me to live long enough.  Time certainly moves swiftly through my aging body with every heartbeat and every breath.  Yet it could be far worse, if you know what I mean.

More and more each day, I understand what the Bible says about our time on earth.  It is like a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.  Life passes quickly.

I thank the Lord for blessing me beyond measure since becoming a Christian.  My days have not been a drudgery but have been filled with joy and purpose because Jesus walks beside me and lives within me.

What more could a person ask for than peace and the lasting hope that the world cannot give—salvation through Jesus Christ?  As John 3:16 reminds us, God’s love made a way for all who believe.

What we are going to do for the Lord, we should do without delay.  We should not let grass grow under our feet.  Time is not standing still; it is slipping away like sand through an hourglass.

As people grow older, procrastination can quietly settle in.  It can lull them into thinking, “I’ve already done my part.  I’m too old to do anything now.”

There may be some truth to physical limitations, but I believe this: whenever God places something on our hearts and we are willing to step into the gap, He is pleased with our obedience, regardless of whether the task is large or small.

God never asks us to do something without also giving us the grace to accomplish it.  Through the Holy Spirit, He equips us to be His hands extended to others.  He prepares the way before His children, regardless of their age.

One of my greatest desires is to take someone with me to heaven.

I believe that when we live out genuine Christianity by demonstrating God’s love, people take notice.  They are drawn not to us, but to the One who has changed us.  That alone is a powerful ministry and should cause every child of God to rejoice in what Christ has done in their heart.

Obedience requires that we remain ready to share our faith and serve as Christ’s ambassadors whenever opportunities arise.  We should never close our hearts to compassion or convince ourselves that we are too old to be useful in God’s kingdom.

Before I retired, God gave me boldness to share my faith with others face-to-face.  Now that I am retired, I post encouraging messages on my blog that are read around the world.

It amazes me how God’s Word is being fulfilled through technology.  Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”

Technology has made it possible for me to share God’s love, His Word, and His promises with people who need guidance and encouragement across the globe.  What a difference a day makes in the age in which we live.

Today, we can reach people with the Good News that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins and that through Him we can experience a brand-new life filled with grace, peace, and contentment.  When we confess our sins before God, He forgives us because of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed His life for our redemption and paid the price for our sin.

Although I miss the one-on-one conversations I enjoyed when I was younger—telling others about Jesus—God has provided another avenue for my ministry.  Through my blog, my witness continues to reach others.

The thoughts and words God gives me not only bless my own heart as I write them, but I believe they also encourage those who read them. 

How do I know this?  Because of the promise found in Isaiah 55:11: “So is my word that goes out from my mouth; It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

I once read a helpful explanation of this verse: “It means that whenever God speaks, pronounces a decree, or makes a promise, it will invariably accomplish its intended purpose and fulfill His divine will.”

That is a wonderful summary of what this Scripture teaches.

So do not become discouraged by age.  Do not compare today’s opportunities with yesterday’s accomplishments.  God still has work for His people to do.

Intercessory prayer is one of the most powerful ministries available to every believer.  It is a mighty work done behind the scenes.  God answers sincere prayers, and this ministry can be carried out from a prayer closet, a family room, a hospital bed, or while lying awake at night before drifting off to sleep.

Be encouraged.  Joshua 1:9 says: “Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Throw Caution to the Wind

I don’t know the full purpose or reason behind the following thoughts, but God does.

I must say, the longer I live in this area, the more crowded the roads become.  Danger seems to be everywhere.  Navigating a vehicle through busy streets without incident is becoming increasingly challenging.  The population continues to grow, bringing more young drivers who are excited to be on the road independently.  Though inexperienced, they are taking their place in the hustle and bustle of today’s traffic.

Inattentiveness behind the wheel is far more prevalent than when I was a young driver.  Talking on cell phones and texting while driving were not concerns in those days because the technology did not yet exist.  Whenever people leave the safety of their homes and travel the crowded streets on two or four wheels, caution should be exercised at all times.

Unfortunately, too many people venture out with tunnel vision and drive without common sense.  It is both noticeable and troubling to watch drivers take unnecessary risks and disregard the law without considering the potential consequences.  Undisciplined driving can have devastating results.  I often watch with bated breath as motorcyclists weave in and out of traffic with little regard for the calamities that may lie ahead.

All too often, drivers of every age change lanes abruptly, cut off other motorists, and then express their frustration with a raised finger because someone is traveling at the speed limit and slowing them down.  When I rode motorcycles, I seldom split lanes or tailgated other vehicles.  Weaving in and out of traffic was out of the question.  I did my best to ride sensibly and avoid unnecessary risks.  God gave me the good sense to avoid danger and refrain from doing things I might later regret.

Throwing caution to the wind was never in my nature.  I enjoyed riding my motorcycle, but I rode as though the people around me were oblivious to bikers.  Many drivers are distracted by their phones, food, or other activities.  It is also apparent when someone has consumed too much alcohol or is under the influence of mind-altering drugs.  A person cannot make sound, split-second decisions when impaired.  Their ability to control a vehicle is diminished as they swerve across the roadway, placing both themselves and others in danger.  Such individuals truly throw caution to the wind when they engage in behavior that risks injury or death.

When laws are broken, people who are controlled by harmful habits and vices often give little thought to the consequences that can occur in the blink of an eye.  The same principle applies when people disregard God’s laws.  When individuals insist on doing things their own way, poor choices can create serious problems.  If things go wrong, they may face the ultimate consequence at the end of life’s journey—eternal separation from God—because they chose to throw caution to the wind.

God’s laws are given for our protection, just as traffic laws are designed to protect drivers and pedestrians.  Rules safeguard us both physically and spiritually when we obey them.  When a person refuses to do so, it is as though they are walking through life in a stupor, blinded by tunnel vision.  Disregarding God’s commandments is much like driving under the influence of a mind-altering substance—it is dangerous and may prove spiritually fatal in the end.

Living according to God’s ordinances produces life rather than death.  Allowing Jesus Christ to become Lord and Savior through the new birth, and faithfully following God’s commandments, protects one’s soul.  I liken it to driving sensibly and obeying the rules of the road.  It saves lives.

The following Scripture in Matthew 7:13-14 gives sound guidance: “Enter through the narrow gate.  For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” (vs 14) “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Jury Is Still Out

The phrase “the jury is still out” means that a final decision or judgment has not yet been reached on a specific matter—in this case, sin in the lives of sinners.

I have been fortunate not to have served on a jury over the years.  Trials can last for weeks, and in some cases, jurors are sequestered and not permitted to go home during the proceedings.  That would be difficult for me.  I enjoy sleeping in my own bed and being with the companion God has given me, who loves to cuddle.  I would certainly miss that.

I believe the jury is still out for those who are walking the thin line between sin and forgiveness—straddling the fence, as it were.  Figuratively speaking, they are treading on thin ice regarding their sinful lifestyle.  No doubt, they hope their sins are not grievous enough to result in a guilty verdict at the end of life’s journey.  I am sure they are thankful they have not yet crossed the other line—the line of demarcation called death.  Judgment will be pronounced at that time.

Sadly, a guilty verdict will be the final decree for those who have not changed whom they serve and honor.  But wait!  There is Someone who believes a verdict of not guilty is possible if the accused pleads for mercy and confesses their wrongdoing before God.  Their defense attorney, Jesus Christ—the one and only Advocate to whom God listens—is even now making intercession for sinners through the Holy Spirit, pleading their case with compassion and love.

He was so determined to secure mercy and grace for humanity that He took upon Himself the blame for our sin debt.  His love for us was so great that He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins.  Every person on earth would have been found guilty had it not been for the intervention and sacrificial love of Jesus Christ.

A not guilty verdict was His desire for you, for me, and for all humanity—people who were indeed guilty and without hope of redemption because of their rebellion against God, called sin.  We all deserved the death penalty.  Yet for those who have been redeemed through Jesus Christ and the blood He shed on the cross, the jury is no longer out.  Victory is ours.

The dreadful consequences of sin no longer hang over our heads because our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life—not guilty by reason of grace.  The death sentence has been removed.  We are no longer condemned under the law when we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  We have been set free from the chains of sin that once held us captive.

Believers are now free to worship God in spirit and in truth.  We need not fear the verdict that once awaited us.  The jury has been dismissed into the sea of God’s mercy.  The prosecutor, Satan, has lost yet another case when God declares, “Case closed!”

Mercy was granted the moment we repented of our sins.  Grace—the unmerited favor of God bestowed upon undeserving sinners—prevailed.  Life was pronounced and freely given in place of death.  We are spared eternal separation from God and the penalty that sin demands because of our wonderful Advocate, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Over One's Skies

The idiom over one’s skies refers to someone who takes on a task or responsibility beyond his or her abilities or qualifications.  When I first heard the phrase, I thought it had something to do with snow skiing.  The expression over one’s head can also apply.

I have never tried skiing myself.  It has always been outside my comfort zone.  I did not want to break any limbs—and I am not talking about low-hanging tree branches.

Many sports come to mind in which I would definitely be “over my skies”: freestyle rock climbing, skydiving, scuba diving in shark-infested waters, or surfing the thirty-foot monster waves that frequently pound the shores of Oahu, Hawaii.  Such waves occur at renowned big-wave locations like Waimea Bay.  Anyone who attempts these activities with little or no training could lose their life if they are not properly prepared.

Thrill-seekers are everywhere.  Some view such adventures as personal challenges designed to test their untrained abilities and limited qualifications.  Ego, self-reliance, or overconfidence may play a role in their decision-making, leading them to attempt dangerous feats without expert instruction.  Their attitude might be summed up this way: “Training?  I don’t need it!”

As for me, I refuse to venture into areas of uncertainty when it is obvious that I am unqualified.  Even though others may possess the experience, training, and expertise necessary to succeed, their readiness does nothing to help those who are determined to conquer challenges without seeking assistance.  When people reject professional guidance, they close the door on wisdom.

In my opinion, an inexperienced person who pursues dangerous sports without proper training is behaving recklessly.  Think about it.  How could such individuals respond to a crisis and survive without knowing what to do in an emergency?  If they venture into situations for which they are unprepared and refuse expert advice, they have only themselves to blame when things go wrong.

These thoughts bring me to the main point of this writing.

The individuals described above remind me of people who believe they are good enough on their own merits to gain entrance into heaven.  Because they work hard, help others, and strive to be kind and benevolent, they assume they are traveling the right road to glory.

My mother and father were both Christians before they passed away.  Neither could stand in my place and bear the punishment for my sins.  As an unbeliever, I refused to listen to their counsel concerning God’s commandments and the path I should follow to make heaven my home.  If I died in my sins, the responsibility would be mine alone.

Eventually, I opened my heart to God’s Word and realized there was only one person—Jesus Christ—who could enable a self-sufficient person like me to enter heaven through the born-again experience.  My determination to do things my own way finally surrendered to the truth that my self-righteousness could never take me there.  Without His help, spiritual death was my destiny.

The amazing reality of salvation centers on one perfect man—Jesus Christ.  His sacrifice on the cross, the death of God’s Son, provided the foundation of hope that I now possess.  My confidence rests in Him, not in my own filthy righteousness.

Some people consider themselves Bible scholars.  Others faithfully attend Bible college.  Some earn doctorate degrees in theology through years of hard work and dedication.  Still others believe that salvation comes through good works and being a good person.  Yet this mindset of self-sufficiency reminds me of those who think they can survive dangerous sports merely because they trust in their own abilities, without an expert to guide them.

In essence, what could be inscribed upon their tombstone at the end of life’s journey is this: OVER ONE’S SKIES.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Healing Comes in Layers

Healing comes in layers.  Healing is for the body, mind, and spirit.

The only way I can express what this title means to me is through personal experience.  Instantaneous miracles still happen—ask any doctor.  They are the unexplainable moments that defy human understanding.  I have experienced such miracles in my lifetime, but for the most part, my healing has come in stages.

I often compare it to a multi-layered cake with a delicious filling between each layer.  I call the filling ‘hope’, and each layer, ‘progressive healing’.  In many ways, I believe hope and faith are synonymous.  They work hand in hand.  I have faith in God’s promises—that if He says He will do something, He will do it.  Hope rises up and declares, “I trust that He will.”

God cannot lie.  This is where faith joins itself to hope for all Christians who believe in the God of miracles.  Jesus declares in Mark 16:18: “…they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”  Matthew 18-19 further encourages us: “Again, I say to you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by my Father in heaven.”

We must grasp and hold tightly to the truth of God’s Word.  What God says, He means.  He will not renege on His promises.  Matthew 7:7-8 reminds us of this truth.  “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; and one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”  It is the unbreakable bond between God’s Word and His people—truth and nothing but the truth.

At times, people become impatient, perhaps out of fear that God is not listening to their cries for help.  Others simply want answers immediately and struggle with the waiting process.  This, in itself, can become a point of contention because emotions often contradict God’s promises.  Some are inclined to question Him when things fail to materialize according to their expectations.

Yet we must remember that the God of Creation designed our bodies with the ability to heal.  With this in mind, healing sometimes comes in layers, as God works His wonders in restoring health and bringing peace to the soul.  Sometimes healing is physical; other times it is spiritual, experienced through the new birth of becoming a born-again Christian.

I can relate to those who become discouraged when prayers seem unanswered.  They may wonder if their faith is weakening or ask where God is when answers do not come in what they consider a timely manner.  Perhaps frustration, linked with fear, blinds the eye of hope during seasons of need.

But God is longsuffering, kind, and gentle.  Whenever impatience begins to fill our hearts, we should re-evaluate who we are in Christ and remind ourselves—without doubting—that God is concerned about every area of our lives, whether we feel His presence in the moment or not.

Instead, we should begin praising Him for what He has already accomplished through the cross and trust Him to continue working in our lives according to His will and purpose.  Scripture tells us that God inhabits the praises of His people.

Let the words that proceed from our mouths be words of faith and gratitude:

“Thank You, Jesus, for Your layers of healing.  I thank You for the grace and patience to trust in Your Word and in Your healing power as each layer of healing is placed upon another.  Strengthen my faith, renew my hope, and help me rest in the certainty of Your promises.  Amen.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

It Cannot Take Us Under

God’s path of righteousness is where we are safe to walk—a brand-new way of life.  I am not saying that we walk in newness of life because of our own righteousness.  The Bible tells us that our righteousness is as filthy rags in God’s sight.  Rather, I am referring to the righteousness of His dear Son, Jesus Christ.

Salvation through Him is the beginning of a blessed journey that people will never regret.  It involves presenting ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service.  It is a walk of faith—one foot in front of the other—with Jesus by our side.

When we faithfully walk in His light, the darkness of sin fades into oblivion, never to be remembered against us again.  God casts our sins into the sea of His forgetfulness.  His Word provides clear visibility along this path.  No longer are we blinded to the truth, for Jesus Christ is the Truth.  Scripture tells us in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

It is to our advantage, both physically and, most importantly, spiritually, to walk in safety.  We will not be caught unaware or taken advantage of by the ”it” when we can clearly see where to place our next step.

“It” can be many things.  I am sure you can think of something in your own life that relates.  As for me, I envision “it” as a raging storm in which I am caught.  Its fury can be stressful until I remember who is standing by my side, saying, “Don’t worry.  I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Jesus is that Person.

Earlier today, I heard a song by the Booth Brothers that touched my spirit.  It caused me to reflect on my position in Christ and my relationship with God as His child.  Some of the lyrics went something like this: “I would rather stand in the storm with Jesus than stand in the sun without Him.”

My mind immediately began to reminisce about past challenges—storms that were difficult in nature but failed to sink this vessel of God.  He was with me every step of the way, comforting, healing, strengthening, and becoming my hope and my victory.

The “it” in the title represents anything that seeks to hinder a person’s stand for Christ—anything that causes doubt to rise up in the hearts of believers.  Scripture shares this truth in 1 John 4:4: “But you belong to God, my dear children.  You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.”

Though the waters may seem to be rising, remember this: whatever “it” is that may be buffeting you in the present is only for a season.  It cannot take us under when we are standing on the Solid Rock—Jesus Christ.  He is our life preserver, our hope, our salvation, and our Savior.

In Him, we live, breathe, and stand victorious in the face of every challenge.  The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, always with us and deeply concerned about every area of our lives.  God is touched by our weaknesses and struggles, and He makes a way where there seems to be no way.  He closes doors we should not walk through and opens doors that strengthen and benefit our Christian walk.

His love is like a refreshing fountain, flowing deep and wide.  His presence brings everlasting peace, regardless of what “it” may be.  In every season and circumstance, He remains faithful, steadfast, and near.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Don't Wait

I remember my dad telling me to keep my ends tucked in.  In essence, he was saying, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you should do today.”  Procrastination is the habit of those who wait.

Noah is a perfect example of a man who did not procrastinate.  He didn’t wait for the rain to begin before building the ark.  His obedience provided sanctuary and safety for himself and his entire family from the floodwaters that covered the earth after forty days and nights of torrential rain.  They were saved because he acted in faith rather than doubting what God said would happen because of sin.

God instructed Noah to build the ark according to specific plans, a project that took 120 years to complete.  Noah not only listened—he acted on what he was told.

I am writing these thoughts not to intimidate, but to stir the heart and encourage readers to protect themselves spiritually.  I am sharing what God has laid on my heart.  I believe He is warning us to respond as Noah did.  I also believe God is gently, yet earnestly, speaking through Scripture, telling us what is coming upon the world.  Biblical prophecy reveals events that will take place in the near future.  Like Noah, we must prepare for that God-appointed moment.

Noah did not know exactly when the rain would begin, but he trusted that it would come.  In the same way, the inhabitants of the earth are facing God‘s coming judgment against sin.

Every time we see a rainbow in the sky, we are reminded of God’s promise, mercy, and faithfulness—the covenant He made with all living creatures, assuring humanity that He would never again destroy the earth with a flood.  It also serves as a reminder to prepare for the return of Jesus Christ and to repent while there is still time.  The message is simple: don’t wait.

God has provided a way of escape.  His Son, Jesus Christ, is our only ark of safety from the judgment that is coming upon the earth.  Just as Noah and his family were saved, we too can be saved if we act now.

The urgency and availability of God’s grace are clearly found in Scripture.  2 Corinthians 6:2 declares, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”  We can escape eternal destruction by confessing our sins to God and asking for His forgiveness.  It is that simple.  In a moment, we are redeemed by the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ.

It does not take 120 years to be saved—only a sincere heart that acknowledges sin and seeks God’s mercy.

Some may say, “Wait a minute, Papa Boyd.  “I don’t sin!”  Yet Scripture tells us, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”  It also says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

For believers, there is a blessed hope.  Christians will be taken to heaven before that terrible day of judgment arrives.  In the twinkling of an eye, believers will rise to meet Jesus in the clouds when the trumpet of God sounds.

I can almost envision Gabriel the Archangel preparing his trumpet, awaiting the command of God.  Then, at the appointed moment, God simply says, “Now.”

Don’t wait.

Don’t procrastinate.

Tomorrow may be too late to repent.

Today is the day of salvation.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Nothing Is Certain

Demonic chatter, as the title implies, would have us believe that nothing is certain in this life except taxes and death.  Satan is relentless in his attempts to deceive people into thinking that certainty does not exist.  This rhetoric is designed to create doubt in the hearts of those who are searching for something—or Someone—they can depend on in times of trouble.

He plants unfounded questions in the minds of Christians who may be struggling or wavering in their faith.  This happens when people allow themselves to be hoodwinked into accepting lies as truth by giving ear to the devil’s deception. Such thinking robs us of hope.

But truth, as revealed in the Bible, is our hope.  Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  Without hope—without Jesus—I would be, of all men, most miserable.  Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, is our primary and only true hope.  Nothing compares to our loving, caring, and personal Lord and Savior.

The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is certain and draws near.  There is no doubt in my mind that this event will one day become reality.  The most important question we can ask ourselves is this: Am I ready to meet the Lord?

It is one thing to talk and write about the promises of God; it is another thing entirely to believe them and live by them.

I began writing these thoughts yesterday, but this morning I was thrown a curveball that caused my mind to sputter like an engine running out of fuel.  For a brief moment, I experienced a taste of uncertainty that Satan threw my way.  I questioned my relationship with God and wondered whether I was truly His child.

What led to this happening?

I can tell you the exact time, place, and year that I gave my heart to Jesus.  I remember the moment I felt the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and knew that God had forgiven my sins.  Yet what confronted me this morning was the opposite side of truth—a fleeting feeling designed to make me doubt my salvation.

I woke up early and noticed that my wife was not in bed.  I called out to her, but there was no response.  I walked into the living room; she wasn’t there.  I checked the family room and the kitchen; still no sign of her.  I called again, but there was no answer.  I went into the guest bedroom, thinking she might have slept there because of my snoring, but she wasn’t there either.

Again, I called out—louder this time—but still no answer.

I had checked every room in the house, yet my wife was nowhere to be found.  That’s when uncertainty struck me.  “Did Jesus come and leave me behind?”  I wondered.

My immediate thought was to call my sister.  I knew she was going to heaven.

Mind you, these thoughts flashed through my mind in an instant, disturbing me for only a moment.  Then I heard rustling coming from the front bedroom closet.  There she was, choosing the next puzzle to do.

Perhaps you have never experienced thoughts of being left behind.  But I am here to say, with full confidence and complete certainty, that if you have sincerely repented of your sins and placed your faith in Jesus Christ, you are going to heaven when the trumpet sounds and Christ breaks through the clouds of glory in the eastern sky.

This is the promise of God.  This is the certainty upon which we can stand.  This is the hope of every Christian.

So don’t listen when Satan whispers, “Nothing is certain.”  He is a liar—and the father of lies.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

After Ground Zero

What do I mean by After Ground Zero?  Perhaps I should begin with some kind of disclaimer about the content of this writing.  But then again, there is no disclaimer at the beginning of the Bible.  It is truth from beginning to end.

I realize the title is provocative, and what follows is direct and straightforward.  My intention is to capture the attention of those who are searching for truth rather than for a message softened by sugarcoating.

The title is not referring to the point on the earth’s surface directly beneath a nuclear explosion.  Even the thought of such devastation—death and destruction on a massive scale—makes me uneasy.  It is a sobering subject.  Yet there is another subject I avoided discussing for many years because it was equally unsettling.

I once heard a saying that caught my attention: Any day is a good day when you wake up on this side of the grass.  More than once, I have heard people complain about growing older—myself included—until a friend exclaimed, “What’s wrong with you?  When you consider the alternative, growing older isn’t so bad!”

In essence, he was saying, six feet under the ground or another year older—which would you choose?  That conversation led me to interpret the phrase Ground Zero in this title as “Ground Zero—Six Feet Under.”  And after that, then what?

That is the question I want to explore.

I remember rejecting conversations whenever friends brought up death or the hereafter.  If they persisted, I could become downright unpleasant.  Such discussions reminded me of what lay ahead because I was living apart from God.  Deep down, I knew what Scripture taught about those who reject God’s Son, and it was a truth I could neither escape nor comfortably discuss.

I knew that if I continued down the path I was on, there would be no hope for me in the end.  I must admit that fear played a significant role in my resistance to talking about death before I confessed my sins and became a Christian.  From my childhood Sunday School lessons, I understood the penalty of sin.

When I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I was freed from that fear and from the warning described in Galatians 6:7-8: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked.  A man reaps what he sows.  Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

I knew what the final verdict would be if I waited too long to seek God’s forgiveness: “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”

When I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ, He gave me peace and joy.  As I continue to walk with Him, I am learning that God’s grace is sufficient in every circumstance and that His love is abundant, unfailing, and freely given.

For those who have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, what comes after ground zero is everlasting life in heaven.  This is our assurance.  This is our hope.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

A Battle Within

Becoming a Christian does not exempt us from heartaches, struggles, or battles within our souls.  The overwhelming difference between a Christ-filled believer and someone searching for fulfillment is the Comforter who resides within every Christian—the Holy Spirit.  He brings victory to our attitudes and temperaments while continually reminding us of the hope we have in Jesus.  He gives steadfastness to our walk of faith.

Though a battle may be raging within us, we can always cast our burdens and problems at the feet of Jesus.  He never fails to speak, “Peace, be still,” because of the immeasurable love He has for each one of us.  We are precious to Him, and He loves us dearly.

You may wonder, Why do we have to endure battles and heartaches?  If I had never faced a problem, how would I know that God could solve it?  I believe yesterday’s battles become today’s victories.  Yesterday’s trials provide strength for today.  God desires for us to learn to trust Him in all things.

I stand amazed at the grace God bestowed upon you and me through the cross of Calvary.  Even at my worst, Jesus died for me and for all humanity.  The God-Man, Jesus Christ, freely gave His life for our sins—paying a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could never pay.

What greater love is there than this?  Do we really think He would leave us to fight our battles in our own strength?  Absolutely not!

Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have.  For God has said, ‘I will never fail you.  I will never abandon you.’”  This is one of the most comforting and foundational promises in Scripture, reminding us that we are never alone, no matter what we face.

Another powerful promise is found in Deuteronomy 31:8: “And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you.  He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”

Remember this: every battle within us is subject to the name of Jesus.  In Him, victory prevails.  In Him, peace reigns.  In Him, our walk is steadfast and sure.  A battle within is temporary when the Holy Spirit is present and at work in our lives.

The Lord is always loving, always faithful, and always caring for us.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

A Step Backward

After experiencing the wonder of the new birth through Jesus Christ—and the peace and hope that come with it—it is difficult to understand why anyone would choose to take a step backward toward the life they once lived.

As I reflect on the “why” behind it, I believe that when a person fails to keep their eyes on Jesus, their spiritual vision can become blurred and unfocused.  Their thinking may begin to justify unwise actions, causing them to become spiritually unstable, like someone standing on sinking sand without a firm foundation beneath their feet.

When a simple glance over one’s shoulder at past pursuits becomes a lingering stare at the life they lived before knowing the Lord, it is time to stop and take notice.  Such a person may be standing on the edge of stepping away from the grace that once set them free from sin.  A shift in desires can slowly impair godly judgment, placing them on dangerous ground.

The truth is, past pleasures can still seem appealing because they once satisfied fleshly desires—if only for a moment.  Yet they never brought anything lasting or fulfilling.  This gradual movement in the wrong direction is known as backsliding, and it rarely happens overnight.  It often begins when a person allows their mind to wander instead of disciplining it to dwell on godly things.

Satan presents enticing distractions that appeal to the senses.  He tempts people to wonder what they might be missing and entices them to touch, taste, listen, look, or indulge “just for a moment.”  But a backward step is already forming on the horizon when we fail to reject what is being presented to our fleshly desires.

Dwelling on past experiences without remembering the heartache and emptiness that accompanied a sinful lifestyle can lead to poor choices and self-justification.  The things of this world can easily entice an undisciplined heart.  When the desire for worldly entertainment outweighs the desire to remain faithful to Christ, it is as though one is trampling underfoot the precious blood Jesus shed on the cross for our redemption.

Yet we need not live in fear or anxiety over these things when we walk in the Spirit.  God gives us the strength to resist temptation when we “present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service.”

A step backward does not appeal to believers who continue walking by faith.  Their hope rests in Jesus Christ, who is faithful to sustain us and provide a way of escape in times of temptation so that we do not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.

In Him, we stand firm whenever Satan attempts to deceive us and lead us astray.  A step backward becomes unthinkable when we are standing upon the Solid Rock—Jesus Christ Himself.  He alone is our sure and steadfast foundation.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Best Version of Ourselves

Let’s be honest: people seem like they are becoming increasingly rude.  Rather than responding to rudeness with more rudeness, I’ve been trying to understand why people are not always the best version of themselves.

No doubt the economy plays a major role.  High prices for food, gas, utilities, and rent can negatively affect people’s dispositions and attitudes.

Just this morning, I took my wife to one of our favorite restaurants for breakfast.  Our server seemed distant, inattentive, and not fully present, if you know what I mean.  I began to feel annoyed by her attitude and apparent lack of customer appreciation.  The atmosphere was far from inviting, and I found myself wishing we had chosen another morning to eat there.

As I started to grumble to my wife, she quietly said, “There are only two servers, and they’re having to handle all the tables themselves.”

At that moment, I realized what I was actually witnessing was the pressure our server was under because of the lack of help and the sudden rush of customers.  Perhaps the owner had cut back on staff, or maybe another server had called in sick.  I didn’t know the reason, but I did know one thing: my attitude needed adjusting.

The bottom line was simple—she was overwhelmed and doing the best she could under the circumstances.

Sometimes, when we don’t have all the facts, we are too quick to judge.  Shame on me for falling into that category.

As I looked around, I noticed a table of five, another of six, and several smaller parties scattered throughout the restaurant.  It’s unfortunate when we allow ourselves to sink to the same level of rudeness we dislike in others.

Maybe it would do us good to revisit Galatians 5:22-23 and put into practice the fruit of the Spirit that God expects from us: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Against such things there is no law.”

If you’re like me—and I’m still working on this with God’s help—we need to check our attitudes at the door: at restaurants, workplaces, sporting events, and especially at home, just to name a few.

We become the best version of ourselves when we remember that others may be watching and listening.  We become the best version of ourselves when we set aside poor attitudes while young eyes and ears are observing how Mom and Dad respond to difficult situations.

We can never go wrong by asking ourselves, “What would Jesus do in this situation?”  The answer will always guide us toward becoming the best version of ourselves.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

What's in a Name

Years ago, while managing projects for a building contractor, I would often write reminders on the palm of my hand so I wouldn’t forget the important tasks before me.  That simple habit reminds me of a powerful truth found in Scripture: God has written our names on the palms of His hands because we matter deeply to Him.

Isaiah 49:16 says, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”

God knows each of us personally.  He knows our names, our struggles, and our need for forgiveness.  He also remembers the great price that was paid so our sins could be forgiven—the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus endured terrible suffering for humanity.  He was beaten, mocked, and nailed to a cross with spikes through His hands and feet.  A crown of thorns was forced onto His head as soldiers ridiculed Him, calling Him the King of the Jews.  Yet through all of His pain and suffering, Jesus remained committed to fulfilling God’s plan to save mankind.

Before He died, Jesus spoke the words, “It is finished.”  In that moment, the work of redemption was complete.  He willingly laid down His life so we could receive mercy instead of judgment, grace instead of condemnation, and eternal life instead of separation from God.  No one took His life from Him—He freely gave it out of love for us.

Even after His death, a soldier pierced His side with a spear, but the victory had already been won.  God’s purpose had been accomplished.

I often think about the scars in Jesus’ hands and what they represent.  To me, they are a constant reminder of His unfailing love, compassion, and sacrifice for every one of us.

Acts 4:12 tells us, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

So what’s in a name?

There is one name above all others—the name of Jesus Christ, the only name through whom we can find salvation and eternal life.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Shifting Direction

I hope these thoughts do not bore you or leave you with a bad impression after reading them.  I believe the prophecies written in the Bible are indeed unfolding in our world today.  Attempting to overlook, ignore, or hide from this reality does not change the truth of Scripture.

(2 Timothy 3:1-5), “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power.  And from such people turn away.”

The thoughts shared here come from a man who once wandered down the road of despair, taking one uncertain step after another, indecisive in nearly every way.  My direction changed after the Holy Spirit gently beckoned me to “come unto Him.”  I was weary and heavy-laden before God forgave my sins, and He gave me rest.  He showed me the only path truly worth traveling.

Through this writing, I hope to offer insight that may help someone determine which direction is right for them—a direction that brings peace to a troubled soul.

I do not believe it is healthy for anyone to think they are above evil or capable of resisting it solely through their own strength.  Sin is everywhere.  It seeks our attention and attempts to rub shoulders with us every day.  It comes at us from every angle and in forms we often fail to recognize.  We must learn to discern wolves in sheep's clothing and do everything within our power to resist the temptation of taking the “second look.”

This is where the Holy Spirit intervenes on our behalf.

Sinful traps often enter through what we allow ourselves to look upon and can lead a person astray because sin is frequently disguised as something “easy on the eyes.”  Such deception has the power to influence the thinking of those who entertain questionable thoughts.  Uncontrolled curiosity can persuade a person into believing they are missing out on something pleasurable or desirable.

We must guard our minds against the well-crafted lies that whisper within our thoughts.  We must not allow evildoers—or the enemy of our soul—to plant seeds that lead to regret, heartache, and spiritual compromise through satanic lies and demonic manipulation.

This was my struggle during my teenage years and early twenties before I came to know the Lord.  I failed to filter out irrational and destructive influences that misdirected my life.  You’ve heard the phrase, “Garbage in, garbage out,” often used in reference to computers.  Our minds are far more complex, yet they too can be manipulated into believing something is acceptable when it is not.

Because I refused to see what God wanted me to see, my spiritual vision became like tunnel vision.  I only focused on what the adversary wanted me to notice.  I became blind to the godly boundaries that would have guided my life in a worthwhile direction had I not been so stubborn and determined to do things my own way while walking away from God.

In my unstable wandering, I focused only on momentary pleasures as I drifted into places my mother and father had warned me about.  Instead of listening to their voices of wisdom echoing in my heart—telling me to run from sin and resist temptation—I chose to fantasize and fraternize with evil.

Something worth considering is how often Christians are tempted to rationalize something “just for a moment,” convincing themselves it may not really be as harmful as they once believed.  I believe this can become the first step toward justifying sin in one’s mind.

For this reason, we must remain cautious and reject such thoughts before they find lodging within us.  Do not give evil a foothold.  Resist looking at things you know in your heart are wrong.

Uncontrolled thoughts and spiritually blind reasoning, originating from the enemy of our souls, remind me of "the forbidden taste" that took place in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and ate the fruit He commanded them not to eat.  Justification can pull a person into deep waters when they knowingly yield to temptation and partake in sin.

I understand these thoughts may expose behavioral struggles and issues many people would rather avoid confronting.  I also realize this subject touches a broad range of personal disciplines and matters involving the stimulation of the senses.  Yet I believe most people genuinely desire greater stability and peace in their lives.  Often, they simply need direction—guidance that points them toward what their soul is truly searching for.

That, in essence, was my struggle.  I wrestled between the “walk of peace” and the “walk of compromise.”

Walking in peace requires the God-given strength of the Holy Spirit so we do not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.  Through God’s sustaining grace, those seeking peace are given the strength and courage to separate themselves from even the appearance of evil.  Through the Holy Spirit, they are empowered to resist temptation and walk in obedience.

I am deeply thankful that I shifted direction when I did and chose to follow Jesus and walk in God’s way.  My feet are now planted upon a firm foundation—the Solid Rock, Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.

Written by,

Papa Boyd