Guilty by Association



The phrase, “Birds of a feather flock together” can be interpreted as meaning, the company that an individual keeps.  It is a direct reflection of who they are or want to be; and how others perceive them.  “You are what you eat” also speaks of external influences that play an important part in the general make-up, attitude, and nature of people.

I believe, deep down inside, that most everyone cares what others think about them, and strive to rise above the so-called, “mediocre existence,” which brings us to the crux of this writing. 

The environment that we are associated with can produce a heavy stigma that affects not only our success in life, but the success of our offspring as well.  Where and how we raise our children can dictate the type of person they become and the kind of people they hang with, date, and marry.

Please notice that I used the word, can.  Life is not a cookie cutter affair.  There are variations in all walks of life; in all backgrounds and surroundings.

Just as proper nutrition is important to a healthy body, where we place our allegiance directly impacts not only ourselves, but on those that we have influence.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” speaks of choices we make in life that determine accountability and responsibility.  Being careful to not build a makeshift existence is something that we should all strive for.  The dividends are numerous. 

Our life touches so many other lives that it boggles the mind to think how many people that we persuade through our actions, verbiage and the company we keep.  We are guilty by association in the eyes of others.  How we live our life; the involvements and attachments we maintain; are very influential and most significant, to say the least. 

Some of these onlookers will more than likely pattern their life after ours, whether we want them to or not.  This can be a positive or negative influence depending upon what we view as important—taking into account where and what type of treasures we pursue. 

(Matthew 6:19-23), “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;” vs.20 “but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”  vs.21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  vs.22 “The lamp of the body is the eye.  If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light.”  vs.23 “But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness.  If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Everlasting Satisfaction



Is there anything at all in this world that can offer unlimited and lasting satisfaction?  This question is asked by many people that insist on spending money on material things hoping to find that special something that can fill the vacuum in their heart with peace rather than despair. 

This question is nothing more than unsatisfied expectations.  The void in their heart is in the shape of Almighty God and literally impossible to fill with things.  To expect things to bring lasting satisfaction is futile.

A person’s obsessive search to obtain such things is pointless and in vain.  Nothing in this world can fill this space to its full capacity except God.  Everything else is smokescreen and mirrors—disguised as hope—just a cover-up and facade for that which is real. 

How many times have you bought something that you wanted, only to find after having it a short time that the newness wore off and the satisfaction of possessing it faded with the excitement?  Things cannot and will not bring lasting fulfillment to anyone searching for happiness.  Satisfaction is brief and short lived at best. 

There is nothing wrong with possessing things as long as things don’t possess you.  Things cannot be expected to fill the longing that God placed in our heart, which draws us to Jesus.  Only He can satisfy. 

How many people do you know that are forever dissatisfied with what they have, or what they are doing?  It is never enough and not at all up to their expectations.  These people will always be searching for something better, newer, and bigger; something to give them another high.  The search will continue until they find Jesus Christ to fill the emptiness in their heart.

When things take the place of God, the soul becomes unfulfilled and miserable.  In a person’s obsession to find peace and contentment, the source of satisfaction may be obscured from view, because of their desire for things rather than God. 

Binge buying, and involving themselves in compulsive behaviors that bring momentary pleasure, become a life style full of frustration and unrest.  They left God out of the picture not realizing that He is the only true, everlasting satisfaction. 

God is ready and willing at any time to fill them with overflowing joy, but they must see their need for Him first.  God is the only true source of living water, yet He does not force Himself on anyone.  When I saw my need for the Lord and invited Him into my heart, this was the turning point in my life.

The Holy Spirit is the gift that Jesus promised would be sent after His ascension to the Father in heaven.  When the Lord died for our sins and resurrected the third day, God sent His Spirit back to dwell in the hearts of those desiring the Comforter—to anyone wanting everlasting satisfaction in their heart.

(John 7:37-39), “On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.’” vs.38 “‘He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” vs.39 “But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”

(John 3:16-18) “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.”  vs.17,  “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”  vs.18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

D-Day



Despite the despicable reign of Saddam Distain, with his dreadful and dangerous henchmen; deadbeat deadheads are marching through our downtown streets with other disrespectful derelicts that mock our decorated and dedicated troops, which are fighting for designated and desired freedom. 

Disgruntled dregs of society are endeavoring to create despondency amongst our distant troops.  These drug-wasted, dope-dealing dropouts and diploma carrying dimwits are wasting taxpayer’s denarii’s in their diabolic and deplorable quest to disrupt our daily discharge of duties. 

Derelicts that deliberately damage another person’s domain and delight in breaking windows and starting fires; denying business owners respect; should have to pay for their dastardly deeds.  Their actions are reprehensible and disturbing. 

Defending America does not seem to dissuade these poorly dressed drifters from doing their disturbing and distasteful disruptions.  They detest authority and would rather injure on-duty police officers that are just doing their job, despite orders that are given to disperse and disband.    

Do I delight in the deficiencies of demoralized do-gooders?  Definitely not!  I detest them.  I call them donkeys, for want of a different, three letter word that doesn’t begin with the letter “d”.  They need a good dose of salvation that would help them deal with deep down inner dearth.

Despite who they deem themselves to be and for whatever cause, their dabbling in disobedience should be dealt with in more decisive, definitive ways.  They should be dragged through the dirt, detained, and driven to internment camps that are dedicated to these dumb, disorderly dweebs, and kept there until peace has been delivered to the deepest, darkest depths of disorder.  This action would diminish negative activity and delight me dramatically. 

Disrespect for the law will deteriorate, depreciate, and damage stability in those cities that do little to enforce the laws, because dismayed leaders in official positions dread dramatic retribution.  A sense of duty and dedication drains from them when confronted with disorder.    

Discipline and distinction detours the majority of descent American people from becoming deplorable dorks.  There are dissimilarities and definitely many differences between those that abide by the laws and the dumbbells that delight in disobeying them.

Dampening down and defusing disgruntled damsels and dudes through disbursement only, allows regrouping later and more dancing and disorder in the streets.  I say, “Down with disobedience and duplicity once and for all!”  City leaders need to use disciplinary actions that are strong enough to make believers out of those creating all the havoc. 

Law enforcement officers should be given the liberty to do America a delightful favor; dissuade not with diplomacy only, but by doing disciplined deeds of debunking.  They should be directed to arrest and deploy these derelicts to a distant destination for detention, away from decent, law-abiding, defenders of democracy.

We see disruption and disobedience around the world.  The signs of the time are everywhere.  We are in the “Prophetic Years” when the rapture of the “Church” is about to take place, (Matthew 24:4-14). 

It is most important that we are ready to meet the Lord when that moment occurs.  We must ask God to forgive us of our sins, while there is yet time, and become “born-again”—the “new-birth” through Jesus Christ. 

Jesus is coming in the twinkling of an eye.  There won’t be time to say, “Forgive me of my sins.”  How we lived our life will determine our destination at that millisecond—heaven or hell.  Are you ready to meet Jesus on D-Day?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Desires

This February afternoon is one of the most beautiful days of the year.  The sun is shining, it is warm, and the sky is free of clouds.   All that I see is a vapor trail left behind by a high-flying jet. 

A slight breeze is moving the lower, hanging branches of three birch trees that are nestled together at the front corner of my property.  It is T-shirt weather for sure. 

The lawn is coming out of the dormant period and will need to be fertilized as I have done regularly since building our home several years ago. 

As I walk across the lawn I notice that some of the camellia shrubs lining my property line fence are beginning to bud with flowers—coming out to greet the sun’s rays—some pink, the other’s having red blossoms.

Blessed is the word that comes to mind when I consider all that God has given to me through the years.  I was able to build our home at a time when the cost of building, in Contra Costa County, was affordable.  It had always been a burning desire and vision of mine to build my family’s home at the end of a cul-de-sac. 

At times I had feelings of doubt whether this dream would ever come true.  I would then remind God of what the Bible said concerning His promise to me. 

(Psalm 37:4-5), “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”  vs.5 “Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.”  

This was truly a strong, driving desire, and I knew that I had been putting the Lord first in all things to the best of my ability.  God’s Word is true—I am a living testimony of this truth.

(Psalm 84:11), “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” 

I placed God first on the list of my many wants when I accepted Jesus as Lord of my life eighteen years prior to breaking ground for our new house.  Eighteen long years it took God to give me my heart’s desire.  I could not understand why He waited so long to answer my prayers, but that day finally came. 

I bought an incredible lot, at a hard to believe price, at the end of a court.  A building contractor sold it to me at half the price that it should have gone for, with the market values the way they were back then. 

The contractor needed to sell one of the five lots that he had subdivided in order to put in street and sidewalk improvements.  He was new in the area, from out of state, and didn’t know the going price for land in California.  I was the first to respond to his newspaper add.

I secured a construction loan at a low interest rate and work began.  I was more financially able to build at that time than ever before, even though I wanted to build sooner.  Our time schedule is not always God’s timeline.  His timing is perfect. 

We must learn how to give God some latitude and believe that He is working in our behalf to bring about His perfect will for our life.  In every situation God will get the glory if we are patient and allow Him to work out the details. 

I have strived to walk circumspectly before God and have never found Him to be late.  He has always been on time—never failing me.  One by one God has given me the desires of my heart and met my every need, while exceeding all of my expectations.  

God speaks truth today if we open our ears to listen and apply what we hear to our life.  He tells us that if we just try Him and trust in Him, we will find that He is good.  God knows the moment that we do this, the hunger and thirst that’s in our spiritual gut will finally be filled and we’ll be changed, because we found true happiness—overflowing happiness like we have never experienced heretofore.

(Psalm 34:8), “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!”

When I gaze at the trees, shrubs, and lawn that I planted, and behold the beautiful home that my wife and I designed and built, I see God’s promise fulfilled and revealed.  I am very happy, not for what God has given me materially or monetarily, but for the gift of salvation—God’s grace imparted to me through His son Jesus Christ.  In Him I have found abundant living—it began in January, 1969, when I tried Jesus.  

Everything else that I had tried prior to that day had failed to bring peace and contentment, so what did I have to lose by giving God a chance to work?  I invited Jesus into my heart, which was the beginning of success—the decision that changed the rest of my life in positive ways.

God has blessed me beyond measure.  I am remiss and at lose as to how I could ever repay or thank Him for all that He has done for me… He only asks for my allegiance and loyalty.

(Romans 12:1-2), “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” vs.2 “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” 

Jesus doesn’t expect me to do penitence or think of ways to repay Him for His mercy and grace.  All I need to do is live in the knowledge that He has forgiven me of my transgressions and recognize that He is Lord of my life.  Everything else finds it’s rightful and proper place, because Jesus reigns in my heart—righteousness prevails. 

We are not good or righteous within our own self or in our own abilities; they are as filthy rags in the sight of God.  Only through Jesus Christ can we become righteous and good in God’s eyes.  When God looks upon us He sees Jesus’ blood that has covered and cleansed us from all unrighteousness. 

Jesus died a harsh, cruel death on a rugged cross, suspended between heaven and earth—buying forgiveness for our sins.  There is nothing that you or I can do to buy God’s forgiveness.  It was the shedding of blood; righteous blood; the blood of Jesus, God’s son that made it possible for you and me to become children of God; to walk and talk with the creator of all things.

Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no-one can come unto the Father in heaven except through Jesus.  Thank you Jesus for dying for my sins and paying the ultimate price for a world that needs a Savior.  Thank you for making it easy to understand the plan of salvation and what we must do to inherit eternal life. 

There is only one reason under heaven why a person would not experience redemption—freewill gets in the way.  Every person is free to choose Life or to reject Him.  Destiny is our choice.  When we choose Jesus, He gives us the desires of our heart and heaven too.

Written by,

Papa Boyd



Choices Justified

When I think about right and wrong choices and how they can have a lasting influence on a person’s life in a positive or negative way, I am reminded of four words that my pastor shared in one of his sermons.  He said, “Everyone has a choice.”  I’ve learned through experience that choices not only affect my life, but others around me.

My probing, analytical mind suggests that no matter what the circumstance may be, a person will choose rightly, or they will justify their actions and choose wrongly.  I am persuaded that anything can be justified in the mind of a person if the desire to justify is stronger than their walk with God. 

The question to ask ourselves prior to making a choice is, “Does my choice line up with the truths in God’s Word?”  Some things are not in our best interest to have.  I believe God directs our choices when we include Him in our decision making.  It also helps to ask, “Is this right in the eyes of God?”  This usually gives me the answer. 

Why not allow God to help us by listening to what He says?  He will never fail to accentuate which direction to take.  He provides the peace of mind that’s needed when we listen to His voice.

Justification can create situations, whereby, a little white lye, for example, can multiply itself into many in order to cover up the first one.  It’s a snowball affect.

Justification is a way that the devil deceives and lures a person down a path of wrongdoing.  When people allow themselves to justify certain things, and disregard the Holy Spirit’s voice, they run the risk of diminishing God’s peace in their life.  It causes uncertainty when taking the next step.  It creates side road detours that are full with reservations and fears.

At the time a choice is being made, regardless of the situation, it’s at this moment that the Holy Spirit speaks truth to one’s soul, attempting to direct that person towards the right choice.  When we yield to selfish indulgence, hidden desires, greed, or other self-absorbed reasons for not abiding in truth, these bring undesirable results.

When justification raises its unsightly head, causing wrong choices to be made, the person making the choices is failing to walk uprightly before God in certain areas of their life, or they would be listening to the Holy Spirit as He gives guidance.

When the right choice has been made, there are occasions when the results of that choice can appear to be negative; not in the best interest of the person that made the choice.  But things aren’t always as they seem.  God sees our honesty and it is He who keeps the record straight.  In the end, righteous living always prevails—God sees to it.

There have been numerous times that had I misrepresented the truth I would have gained monetarily.  Buying a used vehicle and having the seller offer to write a Bill of Sale for less money than what I paid for it, in order to pay less tax to the Department of Motor Vehicles, is one example.

When people justify this deceptive behavior to pay less, this practice only leads to more unfaithfulness in other dealings.  Did I lose money? Yes, in the short term, but I obtained more in the long run, because of God’s blessings in my life than I could have ever gained by misrepresenting the truth to the D.M.V. 

Because of my honesty, it allows God to work on my behalf to bring good deals my way, to find favor with others, to give me better job opportunities, and many more savings that exceeded the money I would have saved had I justified a lesser amount that I paid for the car.

(St. Matthew 16:26), “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?  Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

I want to be justified in the eyes of God in the present, rather than attempting to justify my actions of dishonesty to Him at the judgment.  The choice is mine to make.

Did my choice in the car situation draw me closer to God, or did it cause me to take a step back from Him?  It drew us closer together, which is most important.  It’s not how much money, material gain, or getting one up on someone else that matters; it’s staying true to one’s convictions and walking uprightly before God.

If we choose to walk with God as His child, right choices must be made, even though these choices appear to cost us something.  God always prospers righteous living.  To walk in peace is to know that God is pleased with the choices we’ve made.  What choices will you make?

Written by,

Papa Boyd



Choices

Choices; we make them several times each day; every day of our life.  Choices impact and affect us in many different ways.  They can be positive or negative in nature depending upon the seriousness of the choices made.  It is a battle, nonetheless, to possess and maintain sound judgment, where-with, good decisions are made.  Educated decisions are based upon knowledge and feelings. 

How we feel about things directly impacts the choices we make.  If it feels good we are prone to lean toward these choices that awaken our five senses.  Though our senses are doing back handsprings with eager anticipation, these feelings can lead us astray, because they don’t necessarily know what is best for us. 

When a willful, headstrong desire raises its ugly head, it is at this time that focus becomes blurred and good judgment takes flight.  The focal point is not on God, who brings inner strength to resist temptation; it is on keeping eyes closed when wanting something enticing—not wanting to see the detour sign of God.  People blindly try to make something right when they know in their heart that it is wrong, because they want it so badly. 

Yearning for something touches all senses.  That touchy, feely sensation sometimes rises above that which is a better alternative.  A lapse in judgment causes failure to listen to the sixth sense, which is good sense, or God sense, as it were.  Good sense and God sense cannot be separated; they are one.  Wholesome choices are intentionally placed on the lower shelf that’s labeled, “I want it anyway,” which in turn introduces discord rather than peace.   

Unhealthy choices cost something.  In many cases the physical body suffers, because of bad choices, as does the spiritual being of one’s inner person.  A high price is paid for an unwillingness to involve God in decision-making, even to the point of risking possible separation from God.  This is impulsive and foolhardy!  

(Proverbs 3:5-8), “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;” vs.6 “in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”  vs.7 “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil.”  vs.8 “It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.”

I believe that we can make irrational decisions out of fear.  It is not fear in the sense of the word’s meaning, but it’s narcissism and self-centeredness, which creates fear—a fear that if we involve God; He won’t grant us our wants, thus, missing out on the “good times.”  It’s the fear that God is going to say, “No!” 

People can become so driven by self-motivating desires, or to put it more bluntly, lust, they are willing to accept the punishment for their actions, because they allow emotions and feelings to govern better judgment in the choices made.  They obsess to the point that they are willing to sell out to Satan to obtain what they know in their heart is not good for them.  You may say, “No, this can’t be true,” but actions speak louder than words.  People do foolish things when they take their eyes off of Jesus.

It’s sad to think that people would rather be tickled and thrilled for a short period of time than allowing God to provide perfect peace and real contentment for a lifetime.  Every man, woman, boy, and girl are freewill agents; having the right of choice.  A person can choose to live in poverty regarding the physical and spiritual man, or they can choose to involve God in all decision-making and reap everlasting joy.

What amazes me most about the choices that people make, no matter how unwise or outlandish they may be, even the worse decisions and choices, God still desires to protect and teach them His ways—a better approach to living.  He salvages broken hearts using lessons and chastisement, because of His great love for humanity. 

God loves us so much that when we choose the wrong path, He quickly comes to our rescue providing alternative solutions to the problems that we find ourselves involved with.  Sometimes these lessons are hard to swallow, like some medicines.  We know they are good for us, but we balk anyway. 

Lessons can be mind-boggling at times and hard to digest, because people become set in their ways, and need more than just a nudge from the Holy Spirit to get back to where they belong in Christ.  At these times there is a feeling that God is picking on them, while all the time He loves them.  Finally, they repent and God opens their eyes to deeper revelations in Him—another lesson learned. 

Without chastisement we are without a Father.  In (Hebrews 12:8), the Bible says, “But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.” 

If God is our Father, and we are a part of the family of God, He cares for His children with a love that never ends.  God is more willing to give to us than we are to our own children.  This is called in the Greek, “agape love”—the unmerited favor of God whose very nature is love.  God does not merely love; He is the full essence of love itself.

We need to realize what we can become through Christ Jesus, and recognize the possibilities that await those that involve God in everyday choices.  We need to pray in accordance with His will, because His strength of character is perfect.  His plan for all Believers is ideal and flawless—superlative.

How do we find God’s will?  We find it by reading the Bible and doing what it says.  Doors will open for us and questions will find answers.  Faith begins to rise up; dispelling fears and doubts; bringing with it comfort and peace.

(Romans 10:17), “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

(Psalm 119:105), “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 

Knowing God’s will and putting it into action changes us from weak, powerless Christians to strong and mighty children of God.  We walk tall in the knowledge that God is directing our steps, and the author and finisher of our faith.

(Hebrews 12:1-2), “…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.” 

Our daily prayer should be, “Give me the mind of Christ.”  Jesus prayed to God for strength—should we not do likewise?  He knew the importance of involving God in all things, which resulted in Him walking in the power of God and the strength of His might, because God walked in Him.  Jesus was God in flesh. 

You and I can walk in health—alive and vibrant.  As we rub shoulders with others, we are a joy to be around.   People will listen as we speak, because we share words of life.  Our example and influence will impact them in ways that are life changing. 

Our smile and laughter will be a testimony of the joy that God gives, because we walk in victory when we involve Him in our decision-making.  We take on the Lord’s attributes; standing tall, having our feet firmly planted on the foundation of truth. 

Should storms come our way, and they will, we shall not fear.  No longer are we wishy-washy in our faith, for we stand in God’s strength and not our own when making choices.

(Ephesians 6:10-18), “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”  vs.11 “Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”  vs.12  “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.”  vs.13 “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”  vs.14 “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,” vs.15 “and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; vs.16 “above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.”  vs.17 “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; vs.18 “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.”

 

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Building Blocks for Eternity

I’m sure many adults can remember innocent times when they played with toy, building blocks in their early years of childhood development.  Whether small, cube shaped blocks with numbers and letters on them, or log cabin blocks, the imagination of a child soared with adventure and pleasure in the pretend world of their making. 

Forts and castles were built to house miniature, plastic replicates of army men and Knights of the Round Table.  Tinker Toys and Rector Sets were also fun toys to build with.

Children achieved their goal through trial and error until the structure they were building met with their expectations and final approval.  Though a challenge at times to build, the end result was rewarding and worth the effort they put forth.  While playing for hours in their make believe settings, the structures served the purpose for which they were built.

Life holds a similar challenge when building a dwelling to house the Holy Spirit.  We are His dwelling place.  It will be worth the effort that we put forth in building a strong and worthwhile habitat that meets with God’s expectations and approval.

I am reminded of the story, “The Three Little Pigs.”  It was one of my favorite books to read as a child.  One little pig was a wise builder, while the other two were not.  The two unwise pigs paid the ultimate price for their impetuous, half hearted, and inexcusable efforts when building their houses.

When the true test of confidence came, the big bad wolf huffed and puffed and blew each of their houses down.  It was too late then for the two little pigs to rethink their shortcomings and failures when building, as the wolf gobbled them up.

The first pig built his house with straw and the second used sticks; substandard materials to build a safe house for dwelling.  The walls couldn’t withstand the intensity of the forces imposed on them by the wolf.  Great was the fall of each house and sad were the losses.

Only one pig out of the three survived the aggressive attacks from their predator, the wolf.  This wise, little pig took time and effort to use approved building materials to construct his house.  His choice of materials was bricks and mortar.

It was hard work and took a lot of focused energy to achieve his goal, but when his house was completed, the wise little pig could sleep soundly at night.  He knew whatever came his way could not harm him.  No matter how hard the wolf blew on the outside of the house, the little pig was safe inside.

Whether carefully erecting play structures out of blocks as a child, or building a secure house like the wise little pig; it takes thought, effort, and a determination to follow through with the task in order to build a suitable structure that more than meets the need. 

There is no excuse for any person to have 20/20 hindsight or regrets when it’s too late, because God provides not only the proper building blocks to build a strong house, but the blueprints as well—the Holy Bible.  Anyone desiring safety and a wonderful hope of eternal life in heaven needs to consider God’s way of construction.  All we need to do is use what God has provided and He will do the rest.

Our spiritual house must be built strong and with care.  When we allow God to help us make the right choices as to what materials to use, a well built house is a sure thing.  The success of our structure is dependant upon whether or not we choose to build on a firm foundation rather than sinking sand. 

By laying up substantial, building blocks on a solid foundation, any person can withstand the heaviest offensive from a tempest that blows in their direction.  No matter what’s outside trying to devour them, spiritually, as long as they built their structure with the proven building blocks of life, no threatening foe has the power to consume them. 

When the devil attacks with his huffs and puffs and roaring threats, they are ineffective, because his deceptions and attempts to devour us are thwarted by the Holy Spirit.  Every deceptive effort from Satan is futile.  There is safety within the walls of a well constructed, God approved safe house.  

When we comprehend the unbelievable strength that God’s foundation provides, and how it can sustain the heaviest of loads that we place on it, this is a giant step toward becoming wise like the one little pig.  This foundation that God provided is for all mankind—the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is the rock of ages and the solid corner stone of every successfully built structure.

(Ephesians 2:19-22), “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God,” vs.20 “having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone,” vs.21 “in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord,” vs.22 “in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.”

The structure is you and me, inclusive with every person that seeks to build a lasting relationship with God.  As we place one block upon another, having established the first course upon this firm foundation, all other blocks follow in turn with the mortar of the Holy Spirit serving as the bonding agent that secures each block in place.  He does this with loving care.

If any of the blocks are too rough or coarse to promote good bonding, God, the master mason, painstakingly works with each block making it ready for placement by smoothing out the rough edges.  He then places the finished product, gently in its perfect place.  God never rushes this process like the two unwise pigs.

As an example, God never feeds a newborn babe in Christ meals of steak and potatoes, but rather the milk of understanding, and then the mush of repentance, with the cereal of obedience following.  The meat and potatoes of living the life come next.  These are the building blocks for eternity.

When we finish the course and our Father in heaven calls us home to be with Him, we will live in mansions not made with hands.  We will walk on streets of purest gold and bask in the magnificent presence of Almighty God, for eternity.

While on earth our ultimate goal should be to build a dwelling place for Jesus, who made it possible for this promise of eternal life to be ours.  As we do this the Lord abides within us, keeping us safe, until God calls us home. 

This is the hope of every Christian.  It is a wonderful hope that gives confidence when the storms of life are billowing against us.  It will all be worth the effort that we put into building a strong dwelling place, with the building blocks for eternity, when we see God face to face and hear Him say, “Enter into the joy of the Lord, good and faithful servant.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Are You Speaking



God speaks to us in many different ways; one of which is through circumstances.  Occurrences, events, and conditions reveal much of what God is endeavoring to say. 

As we observe and take note of what is being said rather than pushing our own agenda, it is wise to look beyond our wants and desires, because we know that by seeking God’s will for our lives, positive results occur.  Newness of life is obtained without trepidation.  We reside in peace and tranquility, while rising above every opposition. 

Satan is an expert at hiding truth from us, but only for a season, and then truth comes forth.  When truth is revealed and we see it for what it is, we are faced with the task of making certain adjustments in our relationships and dealings with others before serious consequences can occur.  As we pray, “Not my will, but Thy will be done,” we see truth clearly.  We understand what “Godly circumstances” are saying to us as they are being revealed. 

Love, for whatever reason, is sometimes blind, that is, when a person fails or refuses to see obvious red flags that God reveals, trouble is brewing.  This is called, “turning a blind eye.”  The blinding desire to possess something or someone overwhelmingly overrides good judgment even though God is speaking loudly and clearly through circumstances and revelations. 

People choose not to see and then wonder later, when wrong choices have been made, why God didn’t show Himself to reveal what was right or wrong.  He did!  There was a choice made to remain under the canopy or shroud of darkness. 

As past events are replayed over and over in one’s mind, it is then they admit that the obvious was in fact revealed, but they were too stubborn to ask God, “Are you speaking?”  A willful desire that overrides God’s perfect plan can lead to heartache and despair—a great price to pay for not opening eyes to see. 

Sometimes it’s too late to execute a different plan, because of hasty decisions already implemented.  This is called 20/20 hindsight that tears won’t change what has happened.  An individual cannot say that they did not know, because they did.  I would rather see the truth as God reveals it today, and act upon this truth, rather than experiencing regrets at a later time as a result of bad choices.

As we pray, “Open my eyes Lord that I may see clearly your plan for my life” and “Open my ears Lord that I may hear your voice speaking truth,” awareness is achieved.  Prayers like these open avenues for which God is able to move freely in and through our life, revealing truth and bringing forth miracles as only He knows how. 

God’s passion is to be involved in all areas of our life, even those areas that we think are insignificant and of little importance to Him.  God’s love is unconditional, and He desires to fellowship with us every day.  God may not like what we are doing at times, but He loves us deeply.  His messages can be seen and heard with clarity as the Holy Spirit reveals them in love, if we stop, look, and listen.

 

God never shortchanges His children.  In fact, He gave His son Jesus to die on a cross that we might have life; a peaceful, joyful, and fulfilled life, because of love. 

When we stop for a moment and consider the depth of God’s love for us, and we trust in His divine wisdom, we find ourselves walking with eyes and ears open to His will rather than depending upon our own potency.  We become strong in Him, because His strength becomes our strength.

Trusting in God’s Word and walking in simple faith reveal the honesty of God.  He is, “I Am That I Am.”  There is no greater power than God.  He is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent … (all powerful, all knowing, and everywhere).

(Romans 8:31-39) “What then shall we say to these things?  If God is for us, who can be against us?”  vs.32 “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”  vs.33 “Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect?  It is God who justifies.”  vs.34 “Who is he who condemns?  It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.”  vs.35 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?”  vs.36 “As it is written:  ‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.’ ” vs.37 “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”  vs.38 “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,” vs.39 “nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

With this truth as reality not only in our mind, but in our heart, we are able to say, “Whom shall I fear?”  We rest in the knowledge that our steps are ordained by God.  He leads us into all truth.  We can count on God for anything and trust Him in all things as we walk hand in hand with Jesus. 

God reveals Himself to those that are looking for truth.  As we see truth and walk in it, God directs our footsteps as we “Let loose and let God” have control of our coming and going.  When we trust in God’s sovereignty to reign in our life we walk in total victory, knowing that God will not withhold any good thing from those that diligently seek Him. 

As we strive to walk uprightly before the Lord, He goes before us, preparing the way—the pathway that He has chosen.  When He speaks we hear and know His voice regardless of what method He uses.  We don’t have to ask, “Are you speaking?”  We know who is speaking, because we are walking by faith in the footsteps of Jesus.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Abide in Truth



An incredible feeling of well-being is permeating my senses.  It is as though someone is speaking softly from the innermost part of my being, saying, “All is well.”  I’m not hearing an audible voice; the knowledge that it is happening is what I am experiencing.

It’s like sitting on newly cut grass, under a shade tree, on a hot summer’s day, drinking lemonade with one’s soul mate.  Words need not be spoken to know what the other person is thinking.  The senses pick up on the love they have for you. 

I’m sitting in congested traffic thinking about the daily workload that must be completed by day’s end and my responsibility to perform the duties that I was hired to do, yet a sense of contentment and satisfaction prevails.  It’s the presence of God!  It’s as if I can smell the sweetness and aroma of God’s presence, while tasting His glory.  My senses are heightened and keen to what I am feeling. 

Overwhelming peace is manifesting itself; calmly and serenely from the inside out.  The tranquil tone of the moment is happening through no effort of mine.  It is God!  He is taking this time to visit and speak words of comfort to my senses, saying:  “I am with you always.”

It’s like walking hand-in-hand with someone you care for deeply, and out of nowhere they lean over and give you a big kiss on the cheek—an unsolicited, pleasant surprise, but enjoyed never-the-less.  They wanted to express their love for you.  This is what God is doing with me.  He loves me and I am consumed by this love.

This must be the peace spoken of in the Bible:  (Philippians 4:7), “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding…”  It’s all around me, but I don’t know why or how it’s here, because of what’s going on outside the car.  God is here!

I strive to walk in the shadow of Jesus each day; keeping communication open through prayer and supplication.  When events like this occur, they are satisfying and appreciated.  They leave me in a state of reverence, which inspire me to draw even closer to God.  There is no unpleasant aftertaste or an aftereffect like the world gives, only refreshing ecstasy as the Lord reveals Himself in ways that boggle my mind.

God speaks to humanity using varying avenues and methods of communication.   He can speak through the thundering sound of a whirlwind or a whisper.  He can dispatch angels to speak on His behalf, or use a burning bush in the wilderness to make His presence known.  God can even speak through animals if it was necessary to get our attention as He did in the Bible.  One fact remains, God desires to commune with us.

I want to always keep my spiritual antenna pointed in God’s direction and my tuner set to His frequency for desired programming.  I strive daily to keep the channel open and maintain quality reception, free from errant static and interference of any kind that might prevent clear, concise, and quality reception.

God desires that we walk in the Spirit, thus, maintaining communication with Him and having the ability to know His voice when He speaks.  These are special times and very precious. 

As we abide in truth, the Father of truth is free to speak; and His voice will be heard by us.  Our spiritual ears are open to God’s wavelength, free from the annoying noises-of-enticement that the world emits.  Ears remain clear when we resist various temptations that bring deafness to hearing. 

As our spiritual antenna and tuner are pointed toward heaven, an intimate relationship continues with God.  The creator of the universe and all living things remains near.  Our guarded and protected heart opens its door to Him who is knocking.  God has free access to us, because we are steadfast in obedience; standing in faith.  Peace is our reward.

(Philippians 4:4-7), “Rejoice in the Lord always.  Again I will say, rejoice!”  vs.5 “Let your gentleness be known to all men.  The Lord is at hand.”  vs.6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; vs.7 “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 

Written by,

Papa Boyd