I Hear Your Voice

I’ve been fighting a head cold and allergies that have affected my hearing in both ears.  I’ve been praying that God would restore my hearing, but nothing yet.  I believe faith and waiting are synonymous with each other.  Sometimes we just have to be patient and allow God to work in situations, whereas many of us are prone to wanting things now.  When we don’t receive answers as quickly as we think we should, frustration and doubt can overshadow our belief system, and we grow weary in the waiting.

Earlier, I was talking with my wife about her father accepting Jesus as his Savior in his late forties.  He had a rough childhood that carried through his teen years and into adulthood.  For most of his life, he never shed tears because his heart had become hardened like stone—but Jesus changed that.  God softened his heart, and he would weep when the Lord spoke to his inner soul.  He knew the voice of God and was quick to listen to His counsel.

I strive to always remain in a spiritual place where I can receive His words, even when I’m going through difficult times.  I know God hears me when I call on His name—He has never failed me, and He never will.  Though I am under the weather and concerned about my physical hearing, it wouldn’t surprise me if my ears opened by the time I finished this writing.  I guess that’s called faith.  It’s our ability to trust the honesty of God.  If He said He will do something—believe that He will do it.

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

Although my hearing has not improved thus far, I will keep believing that God has heard my petition for healing, and I will praise Him when He restores it.

(Matthew 7:7-8), “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”  (Vs. 8) “For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Jesus does not want us to lose sight of the power of His name.  All we have to do is ask and then receive.  Some miracles are instantaneous, while others require time before they reveal themselves.  Don’t lose hope.  Jesus said, “Ask.”

(John 14:14), “If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”

In the meanwhile, open your spiritual ears and hear what the Lord is saying to your heart. Then you too will be able to say, “I hear Your voice.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Dead Man Walking

The three-word title of this writing was made popular in the 1995 movie Dead Man Walking.  The phrase originated in American prisons during the 20^th century.  It was used to alert staff members that a death row inmate was being led to execution.

I’m not trying to be morbid or cause anyone negative feelings—God forbid.  I simply want to use this phrase to help anyone who may be thinking about life and how they are living it.  Let me explain.

Scripture tells us in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”  What the Word is saying to you and me is this: all humanity is born with a sinful nature.  We inherited this nature from our ancestors, Adam and Eve.  They willfully disobeyed God’s warning in the Garden of Eden and were banished from the garden because they sinned.

I believe they became spiritually dead in God’s sight after He confronted them and they both “passed the buck” instead of owning their sin.  I believe God would have forgiven them had they repented.  Though God abhors sin, He is certainly willing to forgive it when we sincerely ask for forgiveness.

Rather than taking responsibility for their actions, Eve blamed the serpent, and Adam blamed Eve for their reprehensible act of defiance.  This act of transferring blame is still prevalent in today’s society.  An automatic response of, “It wasn’t my fault,” fills the mouths of sinners and criminals when they are caught doing wrong.  It is always someone else’s fault, or the environment they grew up in that supposedly caused their downfall.

As for me, I cannot pass the buck to anyone else for my misbehavior.  It was all me—a dead man walking.  I was lost in sin, but then the light from Heaven filled my soul.  That light was Jesus, God’s Son.  He bathed me in grace and filled me with His love.  God forgave my sins when I cried out to Him.

I was no longer a corpse walking, but was saturated with life.  I once was dead, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.

Thank You, Jesus, for life—and life more abundantly.  Where once I was dead, I now have everlasting life through the new birth in Christ our Savior.

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

Written by,

Papa Boyd

He Wants Us to See Him

The following hymn comes to mind: “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” by Helen Howarth Lemmel.  The lyrics refer to what the Lord desires for us.  “Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim; in the light of His glory and grace.”

Positive results occur when we see Jesus face-to-face. I believe it’s the first step to the rest of our life regarding positive blessings that fall our way—one by one—one blessing after another.  God promised, in Scripture, that it would be so for born again believers. 

That experience of the “new birth” and what comes next, reminds me somewhat of a row of dominoes that are waiting for the first domino to be touched.  Though they may not be in a straight line, such is life with its curves. 

For many, the transformation is quiet, with changes in character, pliability, resilience, and purpose.  Yes, life has its bends and turns, or as some would call them, “the ups and downs of life” but God is with us through every challenge.

I’m glad when I saw Jesus and touched the hymn of His garment, as it were, healing began to fall from heaven starting with my sins being forgiven, and then one blessing after another, like a row of dominoes.

Referring to dominoes may be somewhat of a stretch, but God’s promises, like dominoes, will follow one after another for those who obey His statutes.  They may show up as a God-given resilience against temptation, the ability to trust Him in all things, and sense which direction God wants us to go or what decisions need to be made in difficult times.  I have heard it called, “the domino effect” where life has its curves, but the essence of clear vision begins at the cross with a touch.

When we see Jesus face-to-face and touch Him, it is the beginning of a new life.  He gives direction and hope that the world fails to give.  The Lord wants us to see Him for who He is, the Son of the living God. 

When we see Him, it’s like coming out of a dense fog into the brilliance of His forever love—leaving sin behind.  We see Jesus when we look beyond the unfulfilling temptations around us. 

Jesus wanted so badly for us to see Him, that He willingly gave His life on a cross so that our vision would become clear, making it easy to see God’s gift of grace that is free to those who ask for forgiveness.

For many years I’ve sung the following hymn in church: “He paid a debt He did not owe; I owed a debt I could not pay.  I needed someone to wash my sins away.  And now I sing a brand-new song, Amazing Grace.  Christ Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay.”   

Jesus is the One we need to see and invite into our hearts.  He is the only answer to perfect vision—removing blindness in a world of temptation.

(Hebrews 12:1-2), “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” (vs 2) “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Secrets Shared

I have a few thoughts that have been quietly pressing on my mind.  When I use the word “secret” in this writing, I do so carefully, because secrets are seldom long-term.  More often than not, they are short-lived—especially when “friends” are involved.

What I mean is this: people often feel safe sharing their deepest thoughts with someone they trust.  Yet that trusted friend may have other friends, and the chain continues.  It doesn’t take long before what was meant to be held in confidence begins to travel.  In many cases, it only takes a little curiosity and a simple promise— “I won’t tell anyone”—to loosen guarded lips.

At the heart of this issue is something small, yet powerful: the tongue.  Scripture speaks plainly about it in James 3:7-10.  “For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.  But no man can tame the tongue.  It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.  With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.  My brethren, these things ought not to be so.”

There is something about knowing a secret that creates a sense of pressure.  When a person hints that they know something but refuses to share it, it stirs curiosity and suspense.  The unknown can be irresistible.  And for the one holding the secret, there can be an inner urge—a need to release what they know, as if keeping it bottled up is too heavy a burden to carry.  While this isn’t always the case, it happens often enough to be worth serious reflection.

The “rumor mill” is a clear example of how quickly words can spread.  Information moves from person to person at remarkable speed.  What began as a quiet confidence becomes public knowledge before long.  And when that happens, trust is broken.  Relationships are strained.  Integrity is called into question.

The truth is, it is often easier to betray trust than to preserve it.  But the cost of that betrayal is high.  A loose tongue can undo years of friendship in a moment.  What is spoken in haste or carelessness has a way of finding its way back to its source, leaving damage behind.

Scripture warns us again in James 3:6, “And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.  The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.”  These are strong words, but they point to a serious reality: our words carry weight, and once released, they cannot be taken back.

There is no real justification for breaking someone’s trust.  While the temptation to share may be strong, discipline must be stronger.  Choosing silence over speech, restraint over release, is not weakness, it is wisdom.

Proverbs 21:23 reminds us, “Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”  That is not just practical advice; it is a principle for preserving both integrity and relationships.

In the end, it is better to be known as someone who can be trusted than someone who simply has something to say.  Loyalty and integrity are worth far more than the fleeting satisfaction of sharing a secret.  Trust, once broken, is not easily restored.

So, the challenge is clear: guard the tongue, honor what has been entrusted to you, and choose faithfulness over momentary release.  In doing so, you not only protect others, you protect yourself.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Never Lose Sight of Who He Is

Being able to see is one of the most crucial of all the senses.  I can only imagine how difficult life would be without vision.  Everything around us depends, in many ways, on our ability to see.

I once closed my eyes and tried to navigate my house without sight, and it shook my sense of control.  In that small moment, I felt a glimpse of what it might be like to live without vision.  It stirred anxiety, but also deep empathy for those who are blind.  When I opened my eyes again, I had a renewed appreciation for the gift of sight.

Thinking about eyesight leads me to something even greater—the spiritual awakening I experienced the night God saved my soul.  Before that moment, I was blind, struggling to find my way.  But when my eyes were opened, everything changed.  Prior to meeting Christ, I had never known the kind of peace and joy that filled me once my spiritual sight was restored.

I was transformed from death to life—from darkness into light.  I could finally see what I had been missing before Jesus entered my soul.  An overwhelming awareness of His presence filled me after God forgave my sins.  It’s what Scripture calls being “born again.”  I literally felt the burden of sin lift from my shoulders.  I took a deep breath and said out loud, “I can breathe.”  In that moment, I experienced the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

It was as if scales had been removed from my eyes.  When I turned my eyes upon Jesus and looked fully into His face, everything began to change.  Worldly distractions lost their hold, and the things of earth grew strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace. 

The transformation wasn’t only internal—my friends noticed it too.  The very next day, they saw a difference in my countenance.  I couldn’t stop smiling as I shared what had happened the night before.

This experience of the new birth is something I will never forget.  I will never lose sight of who Jesus is or what He has done for me.  Even now, I can close my eyes and return to that moment.  It’s like a mental image, an anchor that keeps me grounded.  I see Jesus on the cross, suffering because of my sins.  That image reminds me of His love—the love that led Him to endure torture and crucifixion for me and for all humanity.

I will never lose sight of who He is.  I will always remember the sacrifice made to buy my pardon.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Just Passing Through

There is little hope of spiritual survival in a world of decline were it not for the Holy Spirit going before us in a land struggling to remain in the light of “In God We Trust.”  Yet the Holy Spirit is still at work, calling those who are straddling the fence between good and evil.

God provides a cleansing that the activities of this world can never offer.  Unclean behavior leads to separation from Him and can draw a person into even deeper depths of degradation.  But Jesus helps those who trust in His sovereignty keep their heads above the contamination that is overflowing across our land.

In 1 Peter 2:11-12, Christians are urged to live as strangers and pilgrims on the earth, abstaining from selfish desires that war against the soul, and maintaining honorable conduct among those who do not believe.

The older I get, the more I sense how things are worsening around us.  There seems little need to list every negativity or point out each woe—we see it plainly for what it is: sin flooding in like a ravaging storm, bringing unrest and concern.  Scripture tells us such times would come, yet we can rest in the truth that Jesus is our peace in the midst of confusion and the rise of ungodliness.

Matthew 24:10-13 reminds us: “And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.  And many false prophets shall rise and shall deceive many.  And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall grow cold.  But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”

At times, it can feel as though words about holy living fall on deaf ears—slipping through the cracks of human disregard for God.  But there is hope.  Some are still listening.  Some are still responding to the Good News that Jesus is our hope, bringing calm in the storms that surround us.  Those who accept Him as Lord are no longer lost or without direction.

It is no secret how far our nation has drifted.  One only needs to try to find something wholesome to watch on television, only to see the lack of beneficial influence.  It can feel as though unholy forces are pulling us into a swirling whirlpool of filth, circling the drain of disobedience.  Those who continually allow negative input through the eye-gate risk finding themselves struggling in the sewage of unrighteous living.

But our hope is in Jesus. 

Because of Him, I am an overcomer in a land that desperately needs a Savior.  Had it not been for the saving grace of God, I would have followed the same path as the world.  His Son gave us life when He died on the cross for our sins.  Through Jesus, we are redeemed.

Before I knew Him, I felt like a fish trying to survive in polluted water—surrounded by sin.  My rescue came when I allowed the Lord to relocate my soul to the springs of living water flowing fresh from His throne.  This relocation is what we call being “born again.”

This pure, refreshing water is available to anyone who is tired of swimming in the filth of unrighteousness.  Scripture reminds us that we are not permanent residents of this troubled land—we are simply passing through.  We are pilgrims in an unholy world.

With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can remain clean from the contaminants of external forces that seek to pull us down into hopelessness.  “Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world.”

As believers, we are washed daily through God’s Word, through prayer, and through honoring Him with our praise.  The flow of His righteousness within us will shine outward, revealing His love to others.  As we keep our garments spotless through His cleansing power, people will begin to see the beauty and peace that come from surrendering to a loving Father.

Being “born again” is not only about becoming a source of clean water for ourselves—it is for all humanity.  The new birth brings clarity, patience, and hope into places that feel dark and murky.

This world is not my home.  I’m just passing through—a pilgrim in an unholy land.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Invisible Shield

When my children were young in the late 70s, after dinner they would crawl up next to me on the couch and we’d watch reruns of the science fiction television series Star Trek.  It first aired on September 8, 1966, and ran for three seasons and 79 episodes. 

The incredible explorations aboard the USS Enterprise were always enjoyable.  Most of the episodes provided exciting entertainment.  The mission of the starship Enterprise was to explore space, seek out new life and new civilizations, and go where no one had gone before.

It brings a smile to my face when I think of the catchphrases: “Beam me up, Scotty,” and “Shields are up and holding.”

If I could see with my natural eyes the things taking place in the invisible realm of spiritual beings, I might be frightened.  I imagine there are ongoing battles between good and evil on a scale far greater than the stories of space exploration and the conflicts faced with dubious characters from distant planets.

In my mind’s eye, I can almost see a Romulan vessel dropping out of warp speed—faster than the speed of light—using its cloaking device to remain hidden from Captain James T. Kirk and his crew.  Though invisible to the naked eye, the crew of the Enterprise always managed to gain the upper hand.  They never wavered in their efforts to protect everyone on board.

In a similar way, I believe I am surrounded and protected by forces of good—unseen, yet fighting for my soul.  Cherubim and seraphim, heavenly beings, stand guard against the attacks of Satan and his minions.  I believe God’s invisible warriors are in constant conflict with fallen angels—the third who chose Lucifer over God.

The Scripture in Ephesians 6:12 tells us: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

Make no mistake: God and His heavenly hosts have our best interests at heart, and everything remains under His control.  They are far more powerful than Satan and his angels could ever hope to be.  Yet despite their lesser power, evil persists, seeking to capture our minds and souls while remaining hidden from sight.

Though I cannot see the enemy—or the army of God surrounding me—I am grateful for the invisible shield of protection that keeps me safe from the one who prowls like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.  God overshadows my coming and going with the invisible shield of the Holy Spirit.

We walk in victory, day-to-day when we keep shields up through prayer, awareness, kindness, and discipline.

Whom shall I fear when Captain Jesus is at the helm of my vessel?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

A Heart Condition

It seems the older I get, the faster the years pass.  I’m often reminded—especially by my caring wife—of the importance of exercise and keeping my heart strong as I age.  Each birthday brings subtle changes to my face and hair, and I’m reminded of the Scripture in James 4:14: “How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow?  Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.”

I want to live as long as I can, and I know it’s my responsibility to take care of this body.  Exercise, healthy eating, and avoiding harmful habits aren’t occasional efforts; they must become daily disciplines.  The responsibility rests on each of us to do what we know is right to maintain good physical health.

But as important as physical health is, spiritual health matters even more.

When I came to the Lord, I put off the old man with his destructive habits and discovered that the new man in Christ had been given a new lease on life.  The things I once did, I closed the door on.  How?  The Holy Spirit helps me keep it locked.  He is my strength, enabling me not to fall back into those old ways.

Jesus gave me something worth living for—something real and lasting.  It’s called being born again: salvation through Him, sins forgiven.  It felt like trading a sack full of garbage for a trainload of blessings—peace of mind, joy, and a life no longer weighed down by turmoil.  Hangovers became a thing of the past.  Worry and regret from poor choices faded.  The empty highs that once left me low the next morning were left behind where they belonged.

This sincere heart condition was healed the moment Jesus took up residence within me.  He performed a heart transplant that brought life to what once felt like a walking corpse.  I thank God that my spiritual heart is alive and well because of the Great Physician—Jesus.

Perhaps you are feeling God’s Spirit nudging you to decide that today is the day to call upon the Lord for salvation and not wait until tomorrow.  He will heal your hurting heart when you cast your cares upon Him.  Simply ask God to forgive your sins and healing is yours.  The following prayer has become my anthem of praise since my conversion.  

“God, thank you that through Jesus there is no condemnation for me.  You have removed my sins as far as the east is from the west and cast them into the depths of the sea.  Help me walk as the new creation You made me to be.  Give me the strength to forget what is behind and press forward into the life You have prepared for me.  Amen.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

More Than Enough

The following thoughts come from a firsthand experience.  Let me begin with a question: have you ever given something of yourself without expecting anything in return?  Maybe you’ve seen how genuine appreciation can be worth far more than what was given.

Some time ago, my wife and I were out enjoying an evening at one of our favorite restaurants when I felt a strong impression to do something special for our server.  I didn’t know her situation, but I sensed she had a need.  It was as if a quiet message pressed on my heart: “This girl needs help.”

What confirmed it for me was when my wife leaned over and shared that she was feeling the exact same thing.

The amount we gave isn’t important, and I’m not seeking recognition.  What mattered was her response.  Tears filled her eyes as she asked, “Are you sure you want to do this?”  In that moment, it was clear—there was a need, and we had simply been used to meet it.

Our blessing wasn’t in the giving itself, but in witnessing her reaction and hearing her heartfelt gratitude.

In a world full of noise, it’s easy to miss those quiet promptings.  I’m learning how important it is to stay attentive and listen.  As it says in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

And in Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you.  A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.  For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

We don’t give to receive—we give to be a blessing.  Yet in giving, we often find ourselves blessed in ways we didn’t expect. 

That’s the nature of God.  He is more than enough.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Fortress of Faith

Faith operates in the realm of expectation rather than proof.  Scripture says in Hebrews 11:1, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”  This same faith is at work when a believer pleads the blood of Jesus over stressful situations.  The fortress of faith embodies the belief that there is power in His blood to heal—body, mind, and spirit—and to save one’s soul from the bondage of sin.

Learning to live by faith takes patience.  It requires trusting God’s perfect will in every area of life, even in the midst of challenges.  Faith increases as we put it into practice and spend time in the Word.  As Romans 10:17 tells us, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.”

There is safety within the boundaries of God’s fortress, where the name of Jesus provides protection from every alarm when we speak His name in faith.  When we walk with Jesus, who or what shall we fear? In Him, our fortress of faith, confidence and complete trust reside.

He has never failed me—even when I was drifting on the sea of calamity without a rudder.  I remember wishing for wind in my sails to rescue me from the raging storm within.  Little did I know that God, in His wisdom, was drawing me to Himself as I listened to the Holy Spirit’s gentle beckoning.

The harbor of peace was there all along, even in the midst of the storm.  At last, I saw it when the Lord lovingly wiped the salty sting from my blinded eyes.  It seemed as though I could hear Jesus command the storm to be still—and the tempest within my soul obeyed His voice.  Calmness filled my being.

In simple faith, I reached out to God, believing He was the only answer to my wandering search for solace and unattainable happiness.  Faith did not fail me when I asked Him to forgive my sins.  His love reached down, set my feet upon the solid Rock—Jesus—and brought me into the cove of His peace just when I thought I would be lost in a whirlpool of endless heartache.

He showed me a better way—His fortress of faith—where He continues to teach me to walk by faith each day.  I am grateful for the hope I have in Jesus, on whom I cast all my cares, trusting that He truly cares for me.

Cast your burdens upon Him, for He cares for you.  You will never regret your decision to do so.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Search for Divinity

Whether a person accepts these thoughts or not does not change what is true.  Truth remains truth, even when it is set aside or hidden from view.  I believe that if the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are not abiding within an individual, they may be unaware that lasting joy cannot be found in material gain, fame, fortune, or status.  These things can offer temporary pleasure, but they often masquerade as something deeper than they truly are.

This helps explain why so many attempts to find fulfillment fall short.  People search for peace and satisfaction, yet still encounter disappointment.  Human effort alone eventually reaches its limits.  The longing within the heart persists, and no external achievement seems able to fully satisfy it.

The void within us is not meaningless, it points to something greater.  Yet it can be obscured by distractions and the illusion of worldly pleasure.  Even so, the Holy Spirit is not limited by where people find themselves.  Through moments that seem ordinary or extraordinary, hearts can be stirred, eyes opened, and understanding renewed.

When that happens, clarity replaces confusion.  What once seemed fulfilling is seen differently, and the search begins to shift.  As the familiar words say, “I once was blind, but now I see; was lost, but now am found.”  The search for divinity may be closer than we think—sometimes as near as a sincere prayer.

There comes a point when the pursuit of peace through other means grows weary.  In that place, many begin to sense that true and lasting joy is not something we manufacture, but something we receive.  I believe that joy is found in the presence of God.

I have come to see that grace is not reserved for a certain kind of person or a particular background.  It reaches into every circumstance, even the lowest places.  God’s love is deeper than we often realize.  In giving His Son, Jesus, there is an expression of love that speaks to all of humanity.

For me, the search for divinity found its answer in forgiveness and restoration.  In that, the striving quiets—and something lasting begins.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Commuted Sentence

I watched a television program about a man convicted of a horrific crime.  In that state, the judge handed down the death penalty.  The man’s attorney, convinced his client’s life was still worth saving, stood before the judge and pleaded for mercy.  He even offered to take the punishment himself.  Moved by the attorney’s compassion, the judge relented and reduced the sentence to life instead of death.  Because one man stood in the gap, the condemned was spared.

I can relate to that.  There was someone who refused to give up on me—my Advocate, Jesus Christ, the Son of God.  I was condemned to spiritual death because of my willful disregard for God’s laws.  I was guilty—plain and simple.  Scripture calls it sin.

The accuser would have had every reason to declare, “He is guilty beyond any reasonable doubt!”  And he would have been right.  But Jesus, my Advocate, stepped forward and pleaded my case.  Not by denying my guilt, but by declaring, “I will take his place.”  He took on a debt He did not owe to pay a debt I could never repay.

I deserved judgment.  Instead, I was given mercy.  I deserved separation.  Instead, I was offered life.  Not because of anything I had done, but because of who He is—full of love and compassion beyond measure.

Jesus endured the cross to make a way for me—for you—for all of humanity. This is grace: the unmerited favor of God.  It cost me nothing, but it cost Him everything.

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

He could have called on heaven to rescue Him.  He could have stepped down from the cross and ended the suffering.  But He chose to stay.  He chose to endure.  He chose me.

“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).  And that is exactly what He did.

When I asked God to forgive my sins, He saw not only my guilt—but His Son’s sacrifice.  He saw the price that had already been paid.  And because of Jesus, mercy spoke louder than judgment.

From the beginning, humanity bore the weight of sin, tracing back to Adam and Even in the Garden of Eden.  But because of one man—Jesus—God made a way to pardon what once seemed unpardonable. 

I was spared, not because I was innocent, but because He is merciful.  Not because I earned it, but because He gave it freely.  Because of Jesus, my sentence was commuted.  My life was redeemed.  And my future was forever changed.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Keeping Darkness at Bay

Alaska is a place of extremes when it comes to light and darkness.  In some regions, there are months of near constant darkness followed by months filled with sunlight.  Those in-between weeks can feel disorienting—almost like a lingering jetlag—where the body and mind struggle to adjust.  Yet when the sun finally returns, it is more than welcomed.  It brings warmth, clarity, and a sense of new beginning.

In much the same way, when a person experiences the Son’s light breaking into their own season of darkness, it is deeply refreshing.  Jesus brings that same sense of renewal and hope.  He keeps darkness at bay as we walk in His light and stay rooted in God’s Word. 

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 119:105, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”  The Bible does not lead us astray; its truth helps guide and steady us, even when shadows try to settle in.

Ephesians 6:12 also reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of darkness.  Because of this, keeping darkness at bay is not something we can do in our own strength.  We are limited on our own, but through the power of the Holy Spirit working within us, we are strengthened.

When we choose to walk in the Spirit, we walk in the light of the Son.  His light guards our path, keeping darkness from overtaking us and casting shadows over our walk with Him.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Melody of Love

Many nights, when I pillow my head, I listen to instrumental music by David Foster.  His music is soothing and seems to transport me to a place where everything that pressed on me throughout the day fades away in the beauty of his melodies.

I often pray that my own writings might affect others in a similar way—that they would provide direction through God’s Word, offer encouragement, and bring peace to those who are struggling to find it.

I stand amazed at how God placed a melody of love in my heart the moment He forgave my sins.  I remember how it once was, when joy and lasting peace were beyond my reach, as I strived within my own abilities to find something—anything—to soothe my mind with a perfect melody for my tone-deaf existence.

But like lovely music in the night, Jesus placed a song in my heart and a lightness in my step as I journey down the path of righteousness.  No longer am I enslaved to sin.  No longer am I in bondage or separated from Divine Grace.

If you are desiring a melody of love to permeate your life, rather than the discord of an out-of-tune harmony, Jesus says, “Just try Me and see if I am not good.”

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  (Matthew 11:28-30)

I am thankful for the melody of love that now fills my heart since Jesus took up residence there.  He is my melody.

“Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”  (Ephesians 5:19)

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Money and Willpower Are Not Enough

Scripture is clear in (1 Timothy 6:6-12).  “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.” (vs 7) “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” (vs 8) “And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” (vs 9) “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.” (vs 10) “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (vs 11) “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” (vs 12) “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

It’s not that I love money, but it takes money to live.  There are those who are obsessed with attaining a little more, and then just a little more.  You might say that for some people, money has become their god.  They rely heavily on it, and their self-willpower to gain more becomes everything.

Scripture also says in (Mark 8:36), “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?”

The willpower behind achieving certain goals is second nature to many driven people.  At one time—before I met the Lord—I have to admit that the pursuit of money was first and foremost among my goals and desires.  I believed it could buy happiness and pleasure.

But money and willpower alone were not enough to bring lasting fulfillment.  Yes, I may have found joy for a season in material things, but ultimately, possessions failed miserably to provide true contentment, peace of mind, or a sense of purpose.

So, I ask: if money and willpower are not enough to bring satisfaction, what can accomplish what they cannot?  Perhaps the better question is: who can do the impossible—beyond the bounds of what seems possible?

The answer is simple: Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.  He alone brings life to a soul searching for life-changing answers.  Jesus—and He alone—fills the emptiness within the human heart.  Nothing and no one else can accomplish what money and willpower fail to do.

(Psalm 62:5-8), “My soul, wait silently for God alone.  For my expectation is from Him.” (vs 6) “He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved.” (vs 7) “In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.” (vs 8) “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Where Is He

When I was a young boy, I enjoyed playing games with the kids in my neighborhood.  Back then, no one had personal phones to play games alone in the stillness of their bedrooms or at the dinner table.  Things were different.  Children communicated with each other rather than being cooped up inside the house.  Outside was our playground.

We challenged each other in sports and games, often playing well after dusk without worries about dangers lurking around us.  Our neighborhood felt like a safe zone as we played tag, kick-the-can, and hide-and-seek.

I was always good at hiding.  While the seeker covered their eyes and counted to one hundred by fives, I would find creative places—sometimes even hiding under piles of leaves a neighbor had raked, often close to home base, usually a tree.  I stayed hidden until I heard the words, “Olly olly oxen free,” which meant the seeker had given up and everyone was free to come out without becoming “it.”

I’m sure the one who was “it” often asked, “Where is he?”—referring to me.  I was good at hiding and was seldom “it.”

But has there ever been a time when you’ve spoken those same three words: “Where is He?”  I’m referring to God.  I know I have.

I’ve prayed many prayers that seemed to go unanswered—at least for a time.  Yet, eventually, answers came and needs were met.  That leads me to ask myself: after pouring out countless prayers before God, how long does it take me to praise Him when He answers?

Why is it that I can offer miles of prayers, yet only inches of praise?

Scripture tells us that God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).  When we ask, “Where is He?” perhaps the answer is closer than we think.  He reveals Himself in our praise—much like a child revealing himself at the call of “Olly olly oxen free.”

God responds to our invitation.  When we praise Him, it is as though we are calling Him to “home base,” and He draws near.

Let us not forget to give thanks and praise to God when He moves in our lives.  If you ever find yourself wondering, “Where is He?”—try praising Him.

You may find He was there all along.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Freewill is Not Being in Control

The following thoughts are simply my interpretation of the word “freewill.”  Scripture tells us that we are free to make our own choices—freewill moral agents, choosing whom we will serve: God or Satan.

I am convinced that when a person chooses their own will rather than God’s will, they are no longer truly in control of the decisions that follow.  As I turn this over in my mind, it seems that such a person is being influenced—perhaps even directed—by the enemy of their soul, though they believe they are acting independently.  Through deception, they feel in control of what they say and do.

It seems to me that this is how manipulation works—subtle, persuasive, and often unnoticed.  A person can exist within a kind of bubble, unaware of how their thinking has been shaped.  In that state, they are like leaves caught in a breeze of misdirection, their path gently but steadily redirected.

These are simply my thoughts.  You may see “freewill” differently.  But that is the purpose of my writing—to stir reflection, to invite consideration of where one stands in relation to Christ, or whether one might be resting in the illusion of a will that feels like their own.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Hot or Cold

This writing is “hot off the press” of my imagination and thought process.  Assuming that the following is anything but factual as to whether the Bible is correct is fruitless.  The cold, hard truth is this: “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”  This reality has been in effect since Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden and were banished from it.

There is no getting around the fact that their disobedience to God’s command has affected every soul—yours, mine, and all of humanity.  There are no exceptions.  All have sinned by proxy.  Forgiveness of sin, through Jesus Christ, is the only way we can be reunited with our Creator.  Either a person has accepted Jesus as Lord, or they have not.  There is no other means by which sin is forgiven.

Scripture is clear when it declares that God would have us hot or cold—lukewarm does not fall within the scope of acceptable alternatives.  There is no in-between with Him.  God is specific when it comes to our relationship with Him.

To help illustrate the contrast, consider the extreme difference between the frigid temperatures of Antarctica and the intense heat of Death Valley.  In winter, temperatures in Antarctica can drop below -76 degrees Fahrenheit, with the coldest recorded temperature reaching -136 degrees.  On the other end, Death Valley has recorded highs of 134 degrees Fahrenheit.  The difference is unmistakable—just as it is between being spiritually hot or cold.

Do you remember playing the hot and cold game as a child?  The one who chose the hidden object would call out “hot” or “cold” depending on how close or far away you were.  You trusted that person to guide you truthfully.  In much the same way, the Bible does exactly that.  We can trust God’s Word to direct us, because it does not deviate from truth when it speaks about heaven and hell.

People need to understand that there are serious consequences for disobeying God’s laws.  The lifestyle a person chooses and the decisions they make in this life will ultimately determine their destination when life’s journey ends—heaven or hell.  There is no middle ground.  The choice of where one spends eternity is theirs alone to make.

As for me, I chose not to live a cold-hearted life anymore.  I came to Jesus with all my cares and sins, and through that moment came a wonderful transformation—from cold to hot.  Since then, I have endeavored, through the inspiration and help of the Holy Spirit, to remain fervent in my relationship with God.

Where do you stand—hot or cold?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Bully

As a young boy growing up in the bedroom community of Martinez, California, my first cousin—two years older, taller, and more husky than me—was nothing but a bully.  He always picked on me when our families gathered at Grandma and Grandpa’s house on Sunday afternoons.

When I complained to my dad, his answer was simple: “Bust him in the nose and he won’t pick on you anymore.  That was all well and good, but I really didn’t want to hurt him—I just wanted him to stop.  Looking back, I think that came from my mom’s kindness and gentle spirit.

I had an older sibling—14 years my senior—who taught me the fundamentals of boxing.  Dad made sure I understood how to protect myself if I ever needed to.  I never looked for trouble, but I understood why they were so adamant about self-defense.

The problem was, I lacked confidence.

One Sunday, someone brought boxing gloves.  My cousin and I put them on, encouraged by my older sister, who was firmly in my corner.  Her confidence in me was contagious—like urging a dog to “sic ‘em.”

We sparred while my uncle rang a bell between rounds and the family formed a circle around us.  My cousin tried to dominate, but he couldn’t lay a glove on me.  My defensive posture and training—muscle memory—took over.  I ended up beating him pretty badly.

That day, I realized something important: his roar was bigger than he was.  After that, he never bullied me again.  I finally had the confidence to stand up for myself.

Am I saying violence is the answer?  Absolutely not.  But sometimes we need confidence to face what’s in front of us.

As believers, we are called to stand in the gap—to be God’s hands extended to a lost and hurting world.  That takes courage.  It takes stepping out in faith.  And each time we do, God builds our character and our confidence in Him.

There is another bully we face almost every day: Satan.  But he is already a defeated foe.  The Lord has risen and sits at the right hand of the Father.

Scripture says our adversary prowls like a roaring lion—much like my cousin did when he tried to intimidate me.  But just like that day in the ring, the enemy’s roar is often louder than his power.

We are called to love others and turn the other cheek—but only through God’s strength can we do this.  On our own, we want to retreat.  Yet when we step forward in obedience, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we discover a confidence that doesn’t come from us.

It reminds me of my sister cheering me on.

(Romans 8:37), “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”

We are victorious—not because of our own strength, but because we allow God to work through us.  When we remain pliable vessels, He uses us to touch lives and show others there is a better way.

Yes, Satan roars loudly—but like my cousin, he lacks humility and true power.

And in every battle, God rings the bell—declaring once again that the enemy has been defeated.

We remain champions of the faith when we allow God to fight our battles.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Wrap Me in a Hug

In my preteen and early teenage years, I remember helping my mom wrap Christmas presents.  It was our time together—personal, simple, and quietly joyful.  After we finished, she would always throw her arms around me and wrap me in a hug.

Even into my 20s, I was no stranger to those loving embraces.  They were part of who she was.  When she passed away at the young age of 58, those hugs became something I deeply missed.

When I married my wife, it felt like God saw that empty place in my heart and filled it in an unexpected way—with my 4’-8” Italian mother-in-law.  Every time I saw her, she would wrap me in a hug, pull this 6’-3” lug down to her level, and kiss me in the ear—nearly snapping my neck in the process.  She had so much love to give, and it reminded me so much of my mom and the love she showed me.

I have a picture on my phone of Jesus kneeling with His arms outstretched.  In the foreground, several sheep are running toward Him.  A caption could read, “My sheep know My voice.”  When I look at that picture, I imagine Jesus embracing each one as they gather around Him, patiently waiting their turn.

There’s a satisfaction in that image that words can hardly express.  And I can only imagine the day when Jesus welcomes me into His kingdom with open arms—wrapping me in a hug and saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant.  Enter into the joy of the Lord.”

Hugs are certainly treasured here on earth.  But the thought of that moment—when I enter the gates of heaven, see Him face to face, and feel His arms around me—that will be the greatest embrace of all.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Too Extreme

To achieve the unthinkable and conquer a climb to the top of the tallest mountain in the world—Mount Everest—takes experience, unrelenting stamina, reliable equipment, and a tremendous amount of intestinal fortitude and proven expertise.  The mountain reaches an elevation of 29,032 feet—almost too high and too treacherous for humans to survive—a trek of life or death.  At least 322 people have perished on Mount Everest— pushing the edge of reason.

Let us also consider El Capitan, located in Yosemite National Park, California.  It is a vertical rock formation that rises approximately 3,000 feet from base to summit.  Climbers from all around the world challenge themselves to scale its sheer face—more than most would dare.

There is also a well-known canyon formed by erosion from the Colorado River: the Grand Canyon.  It stretches 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and reaches depths of over a mile.  As a publicity stunt, the motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump the canyon on a steam-powered rocket in 1974, but the parachute deployed early, resulting in a crash.  He suffered a severely broken arm and broken ribs—beyond human limits.

When I was younger, I trained to fly hang gliders and completed 23 successful flights—until the last one.  Although the flight itself was perfect, when I landed, I stepped into a gopher hole and injured my right foot.  That accident sidelined me for nine months.  It was the last time I flew.  I took it as writing on the wall.  If I could get hurt that badly on a good flight, what might happen on a bad one?  Too extreme to tempt fate again.

The examples above are just a few of the extreme ventures people pursue—tests of tenacity and a willingness to risk their lives while, as it were, treading on thin ice.  These adventures can cost a person their life.  Yet something far more important is at stake: losing one’s soul—dying without God’s forgiveness of sins.

Though such ventures may seem too extreme to those who are cautious and reserved, there will always be others who are less intimidated by the challenges they face.  Their desire for adventure can sometimes outweigh common sense.  For some, these pursuits may reflect a deeper urge to conquer the unknown and push beyond their limits—too extreme.

The rescue of eternal souls, however, is an even greater challenge—especially for those who feel unprepared spiritually or mentally to answer God’s call to go into all the world and preach the Gospel.  We must possess the wherewithal to share God’s Word and our personal testimonies, while being equipped with the right spiritual armor—the Whole Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Scripture tells us in John 6:44 that no one comes to God unless His Spirit draws them.  We are to be the conduit through which His Spirit flows to those who are lost in sin and without hope of eternal life in heaven.

Some Christians may feel this calling is too extreme and hesitate to step outside their comfort zone to confront the forces that keep people bound in sin.  But believers must reaffirm the power found in the name of Jesus.  As it is written in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Nothing is too extreme for God—or for His children—when it comes to saving souls.  When a child of God steps out in faith, relying on proven equipment—Scripture, the Whole Armor of God, and trust that God will draw people to Himself—then all that remains is to share the hope that salvation brings through Jesus Christ and leave the results to Him.

What seems too extreme for man is never too extreme for God.  When we trust Him fully, even the greatest spiritual challenges become opportunities for His power to be revealed.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Lost in a Memory

Have you ever caught yourself staring off into space, deep in thought—daydreaming?  It’s amazing to consider the complexity and wonder of how God created us.  He designed our minds like a built-in recorder, storing memories from even our earliest days.

Being lost in memory can be a good thing—but sometimes, not so good.  Thank God we have the help of the Holy Spirit to guide us, especially when painful thoughts try to bring torment or steal our peace.  For our overall physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, it’s far better to focus on the positive rather than dwell on the negative parts of our past.

When hurt begins to rise up, it’s best to bring it before God and ask Him to help us resist the temptation to brood over what we cannot change.  The enemy would love nothing more than to keep us stuck in those moments, robbing us of joy in the present.

But God offers forgiveness and grace.  When we repent and give our hearts to Him, He removes our sins and chooses not to remember them against us.  So why should we continue to hold onto what God has already released?  We don’t have to.

Continuing to punish ourselves can become a kind of unnecessary burden.  Letting go, in that sense, is both an act of faith and a form of self-compassion.

We can choose to think on what is good.  We can intentionally shift to something grounding or positive (gratitude, scripture, even a simple present-moment awareness). 

As Scripture reminds us in Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

The next time you find yourself lost in a troubling memory, pause and ask God for help.  Then gently turn your thoughts toward something good.  Scripture tells us that when we resist the devil, he will flee.  And in that moment, you may begin to feel the beautiful freedom that God has always intended for you.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Turn Down the Volume

When I watch television, I tend to crank up the volume a little higher than necessary.  Before long, my wife—sitting across the room—will say, “Turn down the volume, it’s too loud.”  Now that she has hearing aids, I hear that comment even more often.  I’m sure I’ll break the habit one day.

When we were raising teenage children, the house was often filled with loud music coming from their rooms.  It felt like an ongoing battle between parent and child over what level of volume was acceptable.

These memories remind me of the excess “noise” that surrounds us every day—too much television, endless web browsing, hobbies, and other distractions.  I call these things noise—not always audible, but loud just the same.  They are time-stealers that keep us from hearing the voice of God when He speaks.

Scripture tells us in 1 Kings 19:11-12 that God was not in the powerful wind, nor in the earthquake, nor in the fire—but in a gentle whisper.  The noise of the world can easily drown out that whisper.  We need to practice turning down the volume of our lives so we can listen more intently.

How can God provide direction if we are always busy and never truly listening?

Psalm 37:23 reminds us, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.”  God desires for us to live an abundant life and ultimately find our home with Him—but we must be willing to listen.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Perhaps today is a good time to pause, quiet the distractions, and listen.  Even a few moments of stillness can make a difference.

Just as we adjust the volume on a television, we must learn to adjust the volume of our lives—turning down the distractions so we can hear God’s still, small voice.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Sum of Our Choices

I’ve been thinking: the choices people make impact every area of their lives.

Making decisions with one’s head buried in the sand—metaphorically speaking—can be dangerous.  It’s like being dared to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.  Few survive the fall.  The deck stands about 245 feet above the water, and in just four seconds, a person can hit the surface at nearly 75 miles per hour—almost certain death.

In much the same way, the decisions we make can be just as life-threatening to both body and soul.

Why is it that choices are often made when a person is at their lowest point?

Clear thinking is best done on the mountaintop—when vision is unobstructed and we can see for miles—not in the valley of despair, where everything is clouded.  In those dark places, decisions can become skewed, leading us to believe things that simply are not true.

We must remember: Satan is the father of lies and seeks to deceive.

For this reason, there is safety in counsel.  Receiving a godly perspective is invaluable.  Sharing our burdens with a Spirit-filled believer—someone grounded in truth—can help guide us toward wise decisions.  Reading the Bible and seeking the Holy Spirit brings clarity when confusion tries to take hold.

The sum of our choices can lead to life—or lead us astray.

I strive not to listen to the enemy’s whispers: “Just try it—you’ll like it,” or “No one will ever know.”  Those lies lead only to regret and, ultimately, destruction.

Life is meant to be lived fully—with joy, with family, with purpose.  It offers far more than the traps set before us.

Jesus is the answer.  He brings clarity where there is confusion and hope where there is none.

And I believe God is saying: “Cast all your burdens, your unanswered questions, and your heartaches upon Me, for I care for you.  With the help of the Holy Spirit, the sum of your choices can lead to freedom.  Ask, and I will guide you into all truth.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

In the Eye of a Storm

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms.  Similar storms are called typhoons and cyclones.  They can be catastrophic—even deadly.  Some grow as large as 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) across, with winds reaching at least 74 miles per hour.  Category 5 hurricanes can exceed 157 mph.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand safely in the eye of such a storm after it makes landfall?  There is a brief, almost surreal calmness—stillness in the center—while chaos continues to rage all around.  It is only temporary, as the backside of the storm soon follows, but in that moment, there is quiet.

Storms like this remind me of the account in Mark 4:35-41.

Jesus and His disciples—some of them seasoned fishermen—found themselves in serious danger on the Sea of Galilee.  A furious squall arose, and waves broke over the boat, nearly swamping it.  Even these experienced men were terrified.

Meanwhile, Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion.

They woke Him and cried out, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

Scripture tells us that He rose, rebuked the wind, and said to the waves, “Quiet!  Be still!”  And the wind died down, and it was completely calm.

Then Jesus asked them, “Why are you so afraid?  Do you still have no faith?”

Even when our faith feels small, the Lord still loves us.  He sees us through life’s storms and comforts us through the Holy Spirit.

Walking with Jesus is like standing in the eye of the storm—surrounded by turmoil, yet held in perfect peace.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

A Double Take

Have you ever looked into a mirror and, in a split second, thought you saw someone else staring back—perhaps a relative, your mom or dad—or in my case, a superstar like Tom Cruise?  Just kidding.

The older I get, the more I see my dad looking back at me; a balding head, sagging jowls, and a few more wrinkles than I had last year.  I blink quickly, do a double take, and say, “Hi, Dad.”

But the real question I want to ask is this: have you ever looked at your reflection and rejected the person staring back at you?  Let me explain.

I’m not suggesting that you—or anyone reading this—has a split personality.  Not at all.  But we can ask ourselves: do I ever put on a different face in public than the one I see in the mirror at home?  I think most of us would have to answer “yes” at one time or another.

That question is meant simply to bring awareness to those who desire change in their lives—and to point to the truth that Jesus can bring a complete transformation.  He can take a person from disliking what they see in the mirror to embracing a new reflection shaped by His presence.

There is deliverance in Jesus.  When sins are forgiven, something real and immediate begins to change within.  The desire to turn away from that reflection—to do a double take out of discomfort—can be replaced by something entirely different.  It becomes a wonderful feeling to actually like what you see, to be drawn to that reflection, because of what God has done within.

Jesus brings new life to a person’s countenance, heart, and soul.  He replaces weariness with peace, and even puts a genuine smile where there once may have been the marks of a “hard day’s night” lingering from before.

Before becoming a Christian, I often put on a façade around others.  But the real me was always there in the mirror, looking straight back and saying, “You phony.”

 My life had its share of mischief, moments of deception, and other failures I wish I could erase.  I was lost, without direction.  And the truth is, the pain I carried showed on my face—even before I did that double take in the mirror.  My struggles were many.

But today, I can look at that same reflection and say, “Hello, friend,” with a smile—and a quiet, “Praise the Lord”—because of what it means to be made new.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

I Love You vs. Love Ya or Love You

A token expression of love, like “love ya” or “love you,” can, in my opinion, lack the full meaning of expressing love.  I ask: do two words really convey the innermost feelings of one person for another, or is something missing?

Perhaps they do, and maybe it’s just me feeling this way because of my past.  It may be that when some men say, “love you” or “love ya,” they are holding back a bit—whether consciously or not—because of a kind of masculine conditioning that makes it difficult to say, “I love you.”

As I see it, most boys are raised to become men—protectors, breadwinners, the stronger of the two sexes.  So, it doesn’t surprise me when, at the end of a text or email, the words “love you” or “love ya” appear without the “I” in front.  For whatever reason, “I love you” feels very personal, and for some men, it’s hard to say.

These thoughts come from my own experience growing up.  I never heard the words “I love you” spoken in our home by my father.  I knew he loved me, but for reasons unknown to me, he never said them—and I missed hearing them.  Perhaps he never heard those words in his own childhood.  I know his mother, my grandmother, showed little affection to me as a boy.  Why it was that way, I can only speculate.

When I had children of my own, I made a decision early on: they would hear the words “I love you” from their father as they grew into adulthood.  I chose not to repeat what I had experienced.

That omission stopped with me.

God also blessed me with a wife who has filled my life with love and compassion every day.  She was raised hearing those words.  Her father, however, had a very different beginning.  He was a hardened man for many years, shaped by a difficult and painful childhood.  But through his marriage and his faith, his life changed.  Where there had once been hardness, there came softness.  Where there had been silence, there came expression.  He learned to love openly when Jesus came into his heart.

I share that not to compare stories, but to show that change is possible.  No matter what we were given—or not given—we are not bound to remain the same.

I do not write this to disrespect my father.  I knew his limitations in expressing love, and I chose a different path.  That’s all.

Perhaps God is working in you in an area where expressing love is difficult because of past hurts.  If so, I encourage you to step away from what held you back and step into something greater.  In that place, expressions of love can flow more freely—clearly, fully, and without hesitation. 

When a person steps into God’s love, they walk a new walk and talk a new talk with love expressed at every turn.  His love is bountiful—making it easy to share the words, “I love you.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd