Time Waits For No Man

The origin of the above quote is unknown, whereas, the meaning can be of any application desired.  In my thinking this title references how short the human lifespan is compared to eternity.  The following Bible scriptures explain quite well the validity of the thoughts in this writing.  Perception, with an open mind, will allow true awareness and understanding to stimulate good decisions, while there is yet time.

(James 4:13-15), “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit;’ vs.14 “whereas, you do not know what will happen tomorrow, for what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”  vs.15 “Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.’ ”

Tony-o, Dude-ski, and Bubba were the nicknames given to my three children by their caring and loving momma when they were too young to know right from wrong.  Now as adults, a daughter sandwiched between two brothers reminisce fond memories of home and what life was like having been raised by two parents that loved them and each other with a sacrificial love. 

Eavesdropping on their conversation I heard stories of yesteryears experiences, which made me smile; I too remembered the good times.  When they made reference to the house they grew up in and the fun times they had, I chuckled aloud, because I can still hear all of the laughter that was generated within those calming walls. 

Thinking back, I can see precious, familiar faces sitting around two large folding tables that were borrowed from the church we attended.  They were placed in the family room each year at Thanksgiving and Christmas where aunts, uncles, in-laws, and our sweet family enjoyed the delicious meals prepared by my wife.  Everyone enjoyed each other’s company.  It was another family-get-together at the Boyd’s house; and it was fun!

I remember the sound advice that my Father-in-law shared with me at times—good times.  He loved me as if I were his own flesh and blood.  The comments he made when he felt strongly about a situation were wise and profound; still in my heart today. 

Dad, as I called him, spared no words, except the bad ones of course, when he expressed himself concerning matters.  He stood for righteousness and lived it, just as my father had done.  My children would have brought much joy and happiness to their lives had God not chosen to take Dad and my dad home to be with Him.

Memories are what I’m experiencing at this moment.  Whether I want to accept it or not, this is the ending of another day, making eternity that much closer.  Stopping to reflect, I realize that I have now taken my turn in the line of survivors, as my father did before me and his father before him; as did the long line of Boyd’s before them.  The next generation will do likewise.  They are quickly following suit, but have not realized it as yet.  One day looking into the mirror they will realize how old they are becoming, and reality will speak to them too.

Reminiscing makes me want to stop and smell the roses a little longer and rise each morning with newfound vitality and vigor; ready to face another wonderful day as the sun faithfully rises to greet me.  I want to listen and drink in the magnificent sounds created by God’s little creatures, while birds sing their harmonious songs of splendor.

When I glance into the mirror I sometimes catch my dad starring back at me with his gray, receding hairline and aging face.  The reality of growing older also impacts me when I see pictures of myself; it is then I realize that this is how people see me.   I’m getting older and there’s no getting around it.  These eye openers help me to see that the number of days is growing shorter and that someday I too will be a memory to others. 

My prayer is this, “God, I want my life to have counted for something.  Help my family and friends to see that I am not my past, but now reflect Jesus.  I want my wife to know the depth of love I have for her.  When I close my eyes and time claims this body, may my soul rest in you.  Allow Tony-o, Dude-ski, and Bubba to always remember my undying love for them and how much I cared.”

If you are sitting there wondering what kind of legacy that you will leave behind, please ask yourself, “Am I a good person?”  Secondly, “Am I connected or disconnected with God?” 

You see, if you are connected with God through Jesus Christ, you are automatically connected with family, friends, and the people next door, because of the love that God placed in your heart.  They see Christ in you, not the person you once were.  They want what you have even though it may appear that some reject your way of living.

I’ve heard it said, “Power gives you the praise of man, but weakness brings you to God.”  Don’t look for the praise of man, because it means nothing when lying on your death bed.  When we can realize how insignificant and needy we actually are, it’s these times God can speak to us regarding our soul and where we plan to spend eternity—heaven or hell.

I want God to stir the embers of your faith and reaffirm that you are somebody, because God loves you!  As someone once said, “I’m the rarest of anything; a changed man.”  God is ready to do that for you.  Are you ready?  Remember, time waits for no man.

(Hebrews 9:26-28), “He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.”  vs.27 “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment,” vs.28 “so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.  To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”

Time Wasted

My father often said, “If a job is worth doing it’s worth doing well.”  He believed that if a program touched the lives of people in positive ways, it was good for a person to get involved with that worthwhile program.

(Colossians 3:23-24), “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,” vs.24 “knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”   

There are programs in local churches and businesses that depend on volunteer help to support their efforts in promoting assistance, services, etc. to the community, especially an act of charity or goodwill. 

These outreaches require faithful individuals that are willing to give of their time and talents.  Commitment is the key to the success of any program as dedicated workers help to promote them.

Individuals that understand commitment and are passionate about the cause, usually demonstrate this passion by getting involved.  Gratification comes in knowing they are doing something worthwhile to help recipients that need it.  As they do their part it makes performing the job pleasant and rewarding, while fulfilling the responsibility of their commitment. 

Commitment is the first step to accountability.  Without accountability, less responsibility may be the end result.  The success of any organization or business outreach is dependent not only on volunteer help, but responsible directors that know how to show appreciation and respect to those doing the work.  A sensitive awareness of the importance of showing gratitude is vital.   

A fundamental responsibility of any director, leader, or executive, whether paid or otherwise, is to value the time of volunteer help.  Possessing the skills needed to work with people, and the ability to organize successful programs are challenging undertakings.  Any person stepping into these leadership positions should strive to display a positive attitude in the presence of others.  Commitment should be their primary focus.  They are key people that stimulate others to give of their very best in time and energy. 

It becomes a double standard when those in charge are not as committed as the volunteers on the front line where the pressure is heaviest.  Some organizers say by their actions, “Do as I say not as I do.”  Everyone should be accountable to one another including the head person.  Staying committed is the goal that everyone should aim for.

If a leader values the importance of volunteer help, and they are grateful for the time that is given, their actions should reflect the gratitude they feel.  When true appreciation is present, the atmosphere is charged with enthusiasm at gatherings and meeting places.  Contentment is shared by everyone, because of the sweet harmony that is amidst leaders and volunteer help. 

The person in charge must stay sensitive to the time donated by volunteers, because of the sacrifice it takes to be involved in outreaches; the sacrifice of time.  It may be a hardship for some that commit themselves to programs, because of the time that’s taken from responsibilities at home.  Leaders that expect them to commit their time and talents to programs should demonstrate their own involvement as a shining example.  When this is done, programs succeed.

Time is precious.  It seems the older I get the less time I have to accomplish what I want to get done each day.  Prioritizing is crucial not only for personal success in life, but to the programs I involve myself.

If leaders routinely misuse time by giving little thought to its importance, this practice causes others to do likewise.  Failure to make the best use of time and having it count for something takes away the persuasive influence leaders have, especially if the time they misuse is that which is given by non-paid helpers. 

Pleading words to stay committed to programs fall on deaf ears, because the ability to stimulate volunteers wanes.  Ears lose sensitivity to appeals when discontentment is in the air.  Leaders that fall in this category run the risk of programs stagnating and perhaps failing. 

When those in charge lose their sensitivity of time, they infringe upon the goodness of faithful people, because they lost sight of an important rule; don’t waste time.  Volunteers begin to feel that their time is not important to the leadership.  Anxiety sets in and the desire to continue giving of their time fades.

It’s not a good practice to expect committed people to put up with ongoing disregard of their time.  This is like saying, “Your time is not important to me.”  At this juncture when frustration peaks, people tend to drop out of programs that they were happy doing.

People don’t mind helping as long as their time is appreciated and valued by the headship of the outreach.  The chafe comes when a leader arrives late to a scheduled meeting, and because of their tardiness and the work that needs to be accomplished, they keep everyone past the designated time for dismissal.  This is wrong.  My father would tell them, “It’s better to be a half hour early than one minute late for anything that you’ve committed yourself to.” 

If a meeting was scheduled to start at an appointed time and adjourn by a certain hour, it is the responsibility of everyone involved to be punctual at the beginning of the meeting to allow the group to leave on time.  The leader should be prepared and ready to start without equivocation, rather than everyone having to wait on them. 

(Ecclesiastes 3:1), “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven…”

When a person in leadership is lax with their awareness to the clock, their word becomes tainted; faithfulness and accountability of those under them weaken.  The working environment is strained and weariness overshadows the group.  Common principles of courtesy will prevent these things from happening.  They are critical when heading up a successful program when dealing with free help. 

Success does not begin with the volunteers.  It is initiated at the top where the visions and goals of leaders are expressed and outlined to the group.  Together they then set out to achieve the goals before them, while the leaders establish a standard of excellence for all to follow.

(Proverbs 21:5), “The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty…”

If volunteers are able to prioritize their time with their busy schedules, and remain punctual to meetings and programs, it behooves those in charge to do likewise.  They should consider the affect that a non-committal to time-management is having on those that are willing to be involved.  When they do, everyone remains focused and happy.

(Hebrews 6:10-12), “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”  vs.11 “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,” vs.12 “that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."

Written by,

Papa Boyd

To Be Or Not To Be

“To be, or not to be, that is the question.”  This best known quotation is probably the most famous line in world literature, from William Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, written about 1600.  I am not sure if it was referencing life vs. death, or thoughts of suicide, but I want to borrow its essence for this writing.

Though people possess fame and fortune, or power with position, these things alone cannot bring lasting happiness, nor do they negate the need of a personal Savior in one’s life.  They are dead in the eyes of God if they have rejected His Son Jesus.  To be a Christian or not to be is a choice.

The bums on skid row, drug addicts, and alcohol abusers in low, middle, and upper class families need Jesus Christ as much as self righteous individuals that try to do things in their own strength without the help of Almighty God.  Everyone needs God no matter what their station in life may be.

Any habit or crutch that people lean upon other than God, believing these things can give purpose to life; find that they are just mirages of the real thing that is needed to bring perfect peace—the real thing being Jesus Christ.  All habits and crutches are hopeless, dead end paths to nowhere.  They are nothing more than crumbling elusions of unfulfilled longings for something tangible to count on when trouble knocks at the door.

No-one is self sufficient or self sustaining in their own ability, even though material gain provides them with temporary satisfaction for the moment.  These superficial highs soon plummet to the ground, giving way for despair to claim another victory. 

Money, status, possessions, and other temporary fixes that a person introduces into their life, trying to find happiness, are in vain.  Fixes lack the substance and means for finding solutions to what’s missing in a lonely heart.  Only Jesus and a spiritual awakening, known as the born-again experience, can satisfy the hungering soul.

There is always something missing in the heart of those that believe possessions bring contentment.  Positive thinking, rather than positive faith in God is another falsehood that people lean upon in their futile attempt to find fulfillment.  These souls will face their demons of misgivings one day if they refuse to accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Inside every person is a void that only God can fill to its full capacity.  It was placed there by Him.  Nothing in this world can fill this God-shaped emptiness except the Spirit of God.  It’s not until the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make their abode in a person’s soul that emptiness goes away.  Though people try to fill this void with things in hope of finding satisfaction, they discover that their efforts have failed.  Satisfaction has once again eluded them. 

Nothing satisfies the longing of the soul like Jesus.  When all else fails the Lord is waiting patiently to give life more zest.  He is the answer for any soul that is filled with questions.

To be or not to be a Christian depends upon the individual.  The choice is theirs to make.  When a person decides to give Jesus authority over their life, true contentment and satisfaction is found.  As they stop trying to figure out what brings happiness, and finally gives their life to God, it is at that precise moment the search for fulfillment is over.

(John 10:9), “I am the door.  If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”

(John 10:1), “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.”

(John 14:6), “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ ”

(Isaiah 64:6), “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.”

(2 Timothy 1:9), “…who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began…”

A person can be in the family of God by asking God to forgive them of their sins.  Simply inviting Jesus Christ into their heart is all that it takes to be saved. 

Be free not bound.

Be forgiven not sinful.

Be whole not broken.

Be God’s not the devils.

Be joyful not sad.

To be is the answer to the question.  It is life and gain in every respect.  Not to be is forever searching for the To be.  To be or not to be; the answer remains, To be.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Today Is the Day

We live in a competitive world-trade market and computer age of technological discoveries.  The fact remains that the United States in her quest to maintain superiority over other nations is failing in many areas of importance, while the breakdown of communication has invaded the sanctity of individual homes—in serious need of help.  The drive for bigger and better things is taking its toll on the home front like never before.  These problems remind me of the saying, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.”

This expression refers to the times we discard old things and accidentally throw out valuable items that we wanted to keep.  It’s being careful not to throw the good out with the bad.  With this thought in mind, many Americans fail to see their personal responsibility of maintaining stability in the home regarding unconditional compassion and love for family members; all valuable.  People inadvertently lose, or get rid of possessions of value and hang onto that which is lacking worth.  It can happen during an unintended sequence of events, or becoming discontented with the grass on this side of the fence.  I call it, “blind ambition.” 

This kind of ambition begins with a person staying their eyes upon distant “pipe dreams.”  Farsightedness causes them to not see what is important immediately in front of them; looking past the most valuable things, while attempting to catch a glimpse of that “pie in the sky” fixation they think is attainable. 

It’s easy to make a mistake in judgment when chasing an allusion of vain hope.  It can be as simple as an obsessive drive to attain bigger and better things at the expense of not seeing other people’s needs; creating loneliness and emotional suffering in them. 

People having unchecked ambitions can easily lose sight of reality as they become caught up in placing selfish desires ahead of family and friends.  This is shameful.  They fail to recognize the importance of family members having precedence over things, and blind ambition. 

Another failing in our nation is an unleashed passion to obtain fame and fortune, which places the family on shaky ground and at high risk for failure.  Much like a devastating plague that looms over a city, greed quickly contaminates and brings separation and death.  It is difficult to stop, but not impossible to deal with.  The vaccine is in the shed blood of Jesus Christ.  It heals the inner struggles that drain the very life out of a person.

The murkiness that accompanies the drive for material gain tends to impair the vision of those that allow themselves to be caught up in this gluttony for monetary success.  Failure to recognize inner obsessions, and the breakdown of communication in the home, increase psychological and emotional needs in loved ones; paralleling the illustration concerning the baby being tossed out with the filthy bath water.  People need to open their eyes to what is most important.  Unawareness mixed with poor vision spells TROUBLE.  Heartache is just around the corner.

Our nation’s ability to be strong and influential is due, in part, to computer related technology.  When this technology is harnessed with knowledgeable men and women that use them, changes are imminent.  Our genius-minded scientists are good at what they do, because of their diligence and hard work, long hours of research, and aspirations for success, but at what cost at home.

What once took countless hours to solve complicated, mathematical equations are now resolved in seconds of entering the known data into a computer program.  It boggles the mind how advancements have progressed in science, chemistry, and engineering in just a few decades.

Knowledge is soaring to heights that frighten me.  Mankind can obliterate itself by merely pushing a button.  What a sobering thought!  Weapons of mass destruction can be unleashed without mercy, and may possibly be one of the variables, if not the number one pinnacle of discoveries, that will prove devastating to the human race one day.

Our lives are directly impacted by the hustle and bustle that this computer age has created.  The “I-want-it-now” disease of influence overshadows the American people, making it possible to fall victim to the intellectual bombardment of programming.  This influence not only captures a workaholic in its web of deception and false dreams, but it affects unsuspecting bystander as well.  It’s like a vacuum that draws relentlessly into itself at a high rate of speed.  “Me, me, me,” is the cry of selfishness. 

The most surprising and blinding element is when people are unaware that greed is happening to them.  They fail to realize that insensitivity is looming on the horizon like the plague; causing them to become in-sensitized with callused affection, because of repetitive main lining of self-indulgent living.

These unsuspecting people are suffering from self inflected abuse caused by an over zealous approach to life, much like masochists that abuse themselves.  A man or woman out of control and attempting to climb the ladder of success by creating a higher plane of living at the expense of mental and physical exhaustion is nothing less than what masochists do.  Both experience varying levels of pain, but the only difference; masochists enjoy it.  Everyone suffers that are around people that have obsessive behaviors. 

Not only does a compulsive worker suffer, because of an unleashed obsession, their loved ones are also receiving their share of pain.  The scars may not leave physical markings of abuse on the body, but they go much deeper into the mental and emotional makeup of those suffering.  It’s unconscionable to treat ourselves and others in a merciless, uncaring way in the name of prosperity.

Pressure from higher ranking individuals above us can also play a part in the life style we live.  Those in charge sometimes capitalize on performance in the workplace to the point that fatigue and exhaustion become a way of life for diligent and dedicated employees.  This exerts undo pressure on the home front and everyone concerned. 

A compulsive attitude to please becomes so pronounced and ingrained in some people that daily living in the high geared, compelling drive to achieve at whatever cost, consumes countless hours.  This determines the amount and intensity of the abuse that is felt.  It also dictates the premise by which they live.  It’s like living in a dictatorship that is ever present with someone always looking over your shoulder.  The feeling experienced is one of, “Time waits for no man.”

No longer do slogans hang on the wall at home that read, “Home Sweet Home,” because of the unrest that prevails.  The home becomes a stopping off place between company meetings and business trips.  A “get ahead” mindset compels a person to strive for perfection, though impossible to attain. 

If a home computer isn’t fast enough, a faster, more efficient model is bought to keep up with the growing demand for a higher plane of excellence.  This provides a false sense of security for the transient feeling that exists in a self-centered thinker.  Keeping in step with the challenges that attract their allegiance becomes foremost.  No thought is given to time spent on the computer, or long hours of work away from home, while the rest of the family remains unnoticed.

Everywhere I look I see people in a rush to succeed and fulfill social status.  The notion, “If anyone gets in my way, God help them,” begins to set in and rule their life.  Daily treks to and from work on crowded streets and freeways, unnerving as it is, challenges the ability to maintain self-control should a slower moving vehicle slow one’s progress.

To solve this problem, impetuous type people get up hours earlier and stay later at work to miss the freeway slowdowns and traffic jams, only to create more problems at home, because of absenteeism.  The statement, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” is not applicable here. 

In countless homes, merely sitting around the dinner table with the rest of the family, sharing a meal together is a thing of the past.  Everyone is going their separate ways.  If the family does find time to be with each other it’s driving through a fast foods Drive-Thru, eating in the car as they hurry to keep appointments that were nearly forgotten, because of pressured minds that haven’t slowed down long enough to keep things current.

Weeks, months, and years go by before we can say, “Life is grand!”  We stand in amazement at how quickly we have turned another year older.  We are busy, busy, and busy.  There are too many activities competing for our time and attention.  Another year has come and gone, and failure to recognize the importance of spending quality time with one another and God has past.  It’s the never ending problems, unsettled issues, and lose ends that are not tucked in that can destroy relationships not only with family members, but God Almighty.

When we finally lay our head on the pillow to rest after a grueling day at work, all we can think about is catching a few winks of sleep before starting the process all over again the following morning.  It seems like it’s a never ending cycle of responsibility as we toss and turn, not able to switch off our busy mind; replaying the day’s activities and the anticipation of tomorrow’s heavy schedule.

We seldom kneel beside our bed anymore to call out for strength from our Heavenly Father.  Instead, we fall into bed too tired to utter any kind of praise at all.  We spend little time, if any, telling God how much we love Him and what He means to us.  Busy schedules can push God out of the picture.  If this happens we are neglecting the very One that created time. 

(2 Corinthians 6:2), “…Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 

God knows our nature and the busyness that we find ourselves doing. We prefer to put off until tomorrow the thing we should do today.  For many people tomorrow never comes, because of deep seated procrastination.  They are too busy to invite Jesus into their heart.  For this reason it’s imperative to listen and obey the Holy Spirit as He speaks to our inner consciousness.  We need to heed to the convicting power that God is speaking to our heart.  Every effort to listen and follow His prodding should be of the utmost importance.  It’s the difference between live and death—literally.

God is saying by His Spirit that there is nothing in this world worth attaining that is more important than serving Him.  We struggle unnecessarily when we put things before God.  Finding happiness without God is an effort in futility.  Happiness is fleeting at best without the Lord.  He is waiting patiently for our allegiance. 

(Matthew 16:24-26), “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’  vs.25 ‘For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.’  vs.26 ‘For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?  Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?’ ” 

Our fleeting time on earth is merely a dressing room for eternity.  How we live it determines where our soul will spend eternity after passing from this life.  It is most important to include God in our daily scheduling; taking time for Him.  As we give to God, living becomes more enjoyable and carefree.

Slowing down and allowing God to reside within our spirit provides abundant living through His blessings.  Life takes on new meaning, because every morning is the beginning of a new day that the Lord has made.  His strength is forever present to help us face the challenges of each day.  This knowledge alone alleviates tension and stress when we cast all of our cares upon Jesus.

(Psalm 118:24), “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Today is the day of salvation; not tomorrow!

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Treasures

When was the last time you saw a funeral procession with the hearse towing a trailer behind it; full of the decedent's personal belongings?  It just doesn’t happen.  All that we accumulate in our lifespan is left behind at the moment we draw our last breath of air.  We came into this world with nothing, and we will leave the same way—with nothing.  All of our treasures and money that we have worked so hard to obtain will be of naught. 

A question we should ask ourselves is this:  “Have I laid up treasures in heaven where moth and rust does not corrupt them?” It would certainly be ashamed to come to the end of this short trek to eternity, called life, and find that we are weighed in the balance and found wanting.  Though we achieve fame, fortune, or possessions this world has to offer, at the end of life’s journey they mean nothing.

In the quest for power and a desire to succeed, humanity is prone to place more emphases on temporal things than that which is everlasting.  Giving a cup of cold water; visiting the sick and those in prison; taking care of the widowed; clothing those that are naked; and opening up a billfold of plenty to supply sustenance to an outstretched hand that is truly in need are the treasures we should be concerned with.  If we close up our bowels of compassion, how does the love of God dwell in us?

(Matthew 25:34-40), “Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:’   vs.35 ‘for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;’  vs.36 ‘I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ ”   vs.37 “Then the righteous will answer Him saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?’  vs.38 ‘When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?’  vs.39 ‘Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ ” vs.40 “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ ”

A word of caution:  The next time you feel the urge to give away from yourself, be careful not to blow a trumpet, or sound a pair of cymbals to draw attention to yourself that others may see the beauty of your giving.  People that do this to be seen of man might well have taken their charity and buried it somewhere, because this kind of giving is a stench in the nostrils of God.  They will not receive His recognition in heaven for deeds done in the flesh; their reward was already obtained through the accolades of man. 

It would be prudent to take a moment out of our busy schedule to reflect upon what we think is most important and where our treasures lie. 

(Matthew 6:21), “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 

Here are a couple more questions to consider:  “Do I place my value in things, or drawing closer to God?”  “Do I allow things to captivate my time, imprison better judgment, and dictate notions of greed or self-indulgence?” 

As we evaluate our motives and look at what takes precedent in our life, we can make positive adjustments to prioritize what is most important with respect to eternity.  Doing this will prevent things from dictating negative influences on us.  We can walk in newness of life if we realize that God is our true source of blessings, and live for Him; laying up treasures in heaven. 

All good things come from God.  He lovingly puts us in charge of things when we show ourselves as responsible stewards.  God expects us to be in control of things; not the other way around.  We are to stand firm against any type of influence that might try to control our life; not allowing them to steal our peace, dignity, well-being, and compassion for others.  

These lyrics to a popular chorus say it all.  “Turn our 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.”

Where are your treasures?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Two Feet of Thanks



When challenges arise I meet them head on with a heads up, competent attitude.  I attempt to take care of whatever comes my way with caution and do diligence to rectify the problem.  But when all of my efforts have failed to produce a positive result, and a brick wall reduces me to tears, it is at this time I call upon the Lord for help. 

It’s not as if I wake up each morning anticipating trouble, having thoughts like, “If I’m hassled today I’m going to face it with vim and vigor, and succeed on my own!”  This type of disposition can be interpreted as having a prudent proviso, whereas, this would be a bit imposing upon oneself if it were not their personality, which is the case-in-point—this is my personality. 

Mornings like these can only breed self-inflicted attitudes with a doom and gloom mentality throughout the day.  There are people living in this state of existence and constitution that have not surrendered behaviors and cares to Jesus.  The Bible tells us in (1 Peter 5:6-7), “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

It’s not my intension to be zealous and eager to tackle the job without support; I just do it and then ask myself later, “Why didn’t I include God in the beginning of this conflict?”  I’m striving each day to “let go and let God” have the reins to my life.  It is working. 

It’s an uphill battle of trying to learn how to submit my will to God’s will, because of my personality being as it is, but God shows me each time that I include Him in decision making, or simply trying to locate something that I’ve misplaced, the answers come quickly after having asked God for help.  These times reinforce the knowledge that it’s sensible to include Him in all that I do.

One would think a lesson should be learned quickly.  Though I’ve been a Christian for some time now, it’s an ongoing process of God teaching that He wants me to involve Him in every area of life; all I need to do is ask. 

I’m doing much better in my persona and personality traits, because I am growing in grace.  God is long suffering, patient and kind.  He is teaching me to trust Him.  My learning curve is much higher today than it was yesterday, or the day before.  I’m learning that God’s grace is more than sufficient for character flaws and behavioral problems. 

Jesus said in (Luke 11:9-10), “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”  vs.10 “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” 

You may ask, “Why do you refuse or forget to include God in the beginning when facing something?”  I don’t know I just do.  I guess I’m a slow learner or a bit hard headed.  Perhaps you are like me.  We can all be a little hard to deal with at times, but God, being the tolerant and loving God that He is, understands us better than we know ourselves.  With all of our shortcomings He never leaves or forsakes us.  You can count on this!  You can count on Him! 

At times it seems that God is slow to answer, but He is always on time; never late.  The answer may not be exactly the way we think matters should be handled, never-the-less, God provides what we have need of, because we matter to Him and He wants the very best for all of us.

Another area that I’m sincerely working on is remembering to thank God, intently, for the answers that He grants to my prayers; not just throwing up a “pop praise” or two.  We must thank Him abundantly for His faithfulness before moving on to the next challenge.

In pressing matters when prayer remains foremost, and the desire to have our petitions met is all that we can think about; we seemingly pray miles and miles of prayers with humility and faith, but when it comes time to open the floodgates of thanks and praise for the answers that God provided, we tend to give Him about two feet of thanks.  This is wrong!  Christians should not exercise the spirit of neglect.  The problem isn’t with God, He has shown Himself faithful; worthy of fervent praise and thanks for what He has done.

Anytime God answers prayer in our life we need to cry out to Him with the same measure of thanks as we prayed.  God loves praise.  The Bible says that He inhabits the praises of His people.  I want to please God and love Him unreservedly by demonstrating not only through action, but in word, that He reigns supreme in my mind, body, and spirit.

When was the last time you stopped what you were doing and took a moment to thank God for who He is and for what He means to you?  Try it!  You’ll be amazed how quickly He responds to your affection.  God is patiently waiting to hear from you.  He has never failed to stand with you amidst everyday responsibilities that you face.  Thank Him for doing so.

When we place God at the beginning of our to-do list, somehow the rough edges of life are smoothed out as He speaks contentment and peace to our soul; at the same time helping us to achieve our dreams, while strengthening our walk in Him.  He is worthy of more than two feet of thanks.  Let us praise Him from the inner most part of our being.

Abundant living is experienced when we praise and proclaim Jesus as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Praise God!  Blessed be the name of the Lord!  Holy is the Lord and mighty is His name!  May our praise and thanks be manifested unto you this day!

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Walk By Faith Not Thoughts



At time it is hard to understand why God seemingly refuses to accommodate my requests.  When this happens, questions bombard my mind like:  Am I not His child?  Am I not serving Him honestly and with a pure heart?  Did He not say in (Psalm 37:4) that He would give me the desires of my heart?  Why then does God turn away from me on occasion?

As I consider these questions and more, one word comes to mind—thoughts.   If we base our relationship with God on thoughts rather than faith, agonizing questions like the ones above begin to erode the peace that God placed in our heart when He saved us. 

The born-again experience takes place when a person’s soul passes from death unto life.  At the moment they ask Jesus to forgive them of their sins, God’s Spirit takes up residence within their soul.  It’s this new birth that sets a person free to enjoy life, because they are no longer bound by sin.

A genuine transformation happens when God entered the soul; bringing peace and contentment.  The realization of becoming a new person in Christ Jesus, through the born-again experience, is reality at its highest.  Nothing and no one can convince a person having accepted Jesus as Lord that a change did not take place in their life at time of conversion.  There is a certainty about the change that dispels doubt.

The unity of oneness between God and the new life experience can not be challenged.  The knowledge of true happiness and satisfaction is undeniably a fact of life.  No one has to prod or coax a born again Christian into believing that something supernatural took place.  They just know that salvation is real.

Though feelings can play a definite part in the reality of the new birth, a Christian need not base their standing in Christ on feelings alone.  They can know, through faith, that God forgave them of their sins according to (1John 1:9).  “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

A walk of faith is in order.  Though circumstances may arise that try to create doubt in the minds of Believers, or the devil attempts to bring thoughts of disbelief; Christians walk by faith; not yielding to satanic influences on their thought process.

Thoughts change like the weather, hot one day and cold the next.  We must base our position and faith in Christ by standing on the Word of God.  (Romans 10:17), “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

Does God change His mind regarding the new birth?  Does God take back the peace and joy that is given when He enters our soul?  Is God indecisive?  No, no and no!  God is everlasting and gives eternal salvation to whoever desires it.

Trouble arises when Christians allow the devil to create a wall of analytical or intellectual thinking, which separates them from faith.  Negative thoughts can decline the flow of God’s living water that Jesus spoke of in (John 7:38).  “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”  Christians need to discipline themselves to walk in the Spirit where the sensitivity of God’s love is always present.

Thoughts can be unreliable and misleading at times, but the fact is this…Jesus Christ gave His life for sinners like you and me.  No-one is without sin.  It is only by the shed blood of Jesus, and His suffering and dying on the cross of Calvary that we are able to find freedom from sin that separates us from God.  Our walk with God is not based on thoughts, it is based on love; the love of God for His children.  We accept this and walk by faith.

(2 Corinthians 5:7), "For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

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

Though our thoughts may suggest that God is not listening to our prayers, we can rest assured that our faith says otherwise.  His love for us is real and He reigns supreme.  The joy of the Lord remains strong in a Christian’s heart as they strive to keep His Commandments and walk by faith, not thoughts.   

(Romans 8:28), “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”  

Our Heavenly Father knows what’s best for His family.  If He chooses to not grant every petition that we ask for, it’s not that He has departed from our presence, perhaps He is teaching us to walk by faith and not by sight or thoughts alone.  God will never leave, nor forsake His children.  He sticks closer than a brother and will walk with them to the ends of the earth.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Tumbleweed Christians

When I was a lad I traveled with my mom and dad to visit family and friends in the Midwest.  As we drove through the Mojave Desert I remember seeing large tumbleweeds rolling and hopping along on their lonely, uneventful journey across the hot sand in whichever direction the wind blew.  I called them tumbling tumbleweeds; having no roots to secure them in one place and at the mercy of the wind.  They were dried up bushes with no life in them.

There are Christians that hop from church to church much like tumbleweeds hopping from place to place.  They are looking for the perfect church to put down roots and call home.  In their ongoing search, these unhappy, unsettled people run into the same problem with every congregation they join.  It’s called imperfection. 

Most churches have their share of individuals that appear to have Godly values at first glance, but are deceivers of truth.  Their desire is to serve themselves through sexual and immoral gratification.  These carnal Christians, better known as hypocrites, profess Christianity, but hold onto the things of the world.  They cling to Christianity with one hand and clutch the world’s pleasures, in secret, with the other.  Their conduct is deceitful and dishonest, while putting on a facade resembling holiness at church; yet condemning others for lesser offenses. 

Tumbleweed Christians can only focus on the hypocrites in a church rather than seeing the good that the church is doing in the community.  Carnal Christians are quickly spotted and prejudged by Tumbleweed Christians, which cannot justify being around double minded people having carnal tendencies.  They soon leave the church in search of another one that is free from worldly influence.  

The sad commentary of Tumbleweed Christians is that their happiness is contingent upon whether or not there are hypocrites present, which ultimately affect their spiritual outlook on churches.  They allow these people to dictate the length of time they stay at any one church.  When discontentment begins to shroud them, they leave, and their uneventful hopping continues. 

Like the tumbleweed, after they have been blown in all directions, they begin to wither and dry up spiritually.  They lose the ability to set down roots, because of the lack of spiritual sustenance that is needed in every person’s life.  They fail to stay long enough to allow their roots to find this spiritual nourishment.  Always looking at other people and judging them for their lack of commitment to God and church, these Tumbleweed Christians need only to look in a mirror and they would not be so quick to judge others.

Another reason a Tumbleweed Christian never establishes longevity in one place of worship is because their feelings get hurt easily.  They are prone to become extremely offended should someone in church speak ill of them, or spread idle gossip about them.  They are also sensitive and petty-minded when the leadership of the church fails to recognize and implement their ideas concerning matters of the church. 

As they enter into the stage of sulking and begin their pout, it does not take long before these Tumbleweed Christians decide to venture out and hop to another church that is more to their liking.  They don’t realize that they themselves are the real problem.

These restless, easily hurt Christians believe that everyone else is to blame for their discontentment.  They act hastily, because of their impulsive nature; slow to rationalize, because they lack patience.  They point their finger at others; yet, fail to see their own three fingers pointing back in their direction.  They only see the faults in other church members; never themselves.

While eating dinner at home, Tumbleweed Christians often feast on the problems at church and most everyone attending the church.  Discussions center on all the negative happenings rather than the blessings that God is pouring out.  They capitalize on insignificant matters; not conversations pertaining to God, whereby, allowing Him to be foremost in priority.

Their children are in a constant state of turmoil that is generated by negative talk.  It is no wonder they drift away from God in later years.  Indifference in children begins with their mom and dad’s inconsistencies concerning church.  Children learn by example.  It is sad when a family fails to attend church on Sunday morning, because the level of importance is at the bottom of things to do on weekends.

In that there is no perfect church to be found anywhere, a man and woman must establish themselves in a church that is well-grounded upon the teachings of the Bible.  It must also have an active youth group that loves God and shares their faith with those outside the church doors. 

Children must be allowed to establish roots of their own and become grounded in faith at an early age.  They must be taught that God is most important and that other things should be secondary to their faith and love for God.  Uprooting a child, because a parent has tumbleweed tendencies is ludicrous.  These parents need to grow up and look at the bigger picture.  Regular church attendance is a must; showing by their example that it is important to establish roots.  They need to involve themselves and display faithfulness toward church activities. 

By not establishing one place of worship as being the home church, and choosing to hop from church to church, it sets precedence in the mind of a child that church is not important.  They are watching every move and listening to every negative conversation about church and the leadership.  People must refrain themselves from becoming a Tumbleweed Christian for the sake of the little-ones.  The words and actions of church hoppers not only affect young minds in negative ways, but other people tend to follow their lead.  We are not an island unto ourselves; we influence those around us.

A healthy, spiritual foundation begins in the informative years of a child.  When a child is kept in Sunday school and midweek youth activities at church, the dividends outweigh the desire to hop around.  Roots firmly planted allow maturity to flourish both mentally and spiritually in children.  They are what matters most! 

(Proverbs 22:6), “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd