How Far Is Too Far



As I prepare to write a few thoughts for today, I am taking for granted that you, the reader, love God in your own special and tender way.  I assume, for the most part, that people in general believe in God and would rather be on His good side, experiencing love than having God afar off, feeling estranged and alone.  

I am collecting thoughts from past memories for your edification; careful to not offend, or make light of any situation that may be in your history.  If I can pass on a tidbit of awareness, with respect to proper positioning of oneself in Christ, my efforts in writing this will have been a success and not in vain.

I felt alone in a crowd prior to 1969.  My existence was one of unrest and sin as I searched for the meaning to life.  It was filled with a plethora of varied and troublesome misbehavior.  The miserable person that I had become was brought on, because of my dabbling and experimenting with unrestrained folly, which ultimately affected my dealings with life.  My escapades failed to bring peace; only more heartache. 

I was a man in search of just a hint of soundness and a touch of stability—anything was better than the nothing I had.  I wanted a chance to experience peace in my already troubled and misguided approach to living, but I was looking in all the wrong places for this change to become a reality. 

City streets, back alleys, wild parties, and the bar scene were just a few places that I frequented in my search for an inkling of hope.  My exhaustive search for something tangible was filled with unsatisfying blunders and wrong choices.  When I was at the end of my rope, life was bleak and filled with despair—my darkest hour. 

Try as I may, nothing that I purchased could bring lasting happiness regardless of the new car I drove; the Harley Davidson motorcycle I owned; and the finest clothes that money could buy.  I finally realized that I was on a merry-go-round of unfulfilled dreams, which always brought me back to the same, old place called heartache. 

In January, 1969, a wonderful and changing event took place in my not so wonderful life.  I remembered the God of my youth and did something that changed the destiny of the rest of my life.  I knelt beside my unmade bed and cried out to the Lord for the first time in years.  I knew that He was the answer for my fruitless search for peace. 

The one and only true God cared about my status and situations of life.  He changed my present condition from a lonely sinner to a born-again Christian.  His grace was and is sufficient for both physical and spiritual healing, because God is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore.  What He has done for others He did for me. 

After praying a short, simple prayer asking God to forgive me of my sins; inviting Him into my heart; that which followed was the biggest rush and highest high that I had experienced here to fore.  I felt a change!  I was set free from the heavy burden that was pressing me down!  The load of sin that I was carrying lifted! 

I remember taking a deep, extended breath of air, because I felt the indwelling of the Holy Spirit—I could breathe!  The relief of pressure was joy unspeakable—I was free at last!  I met Jesus that day and He took all of my cares, because of His great love for me. 

(1 Peter 5:6-7), “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,” vs.7 “casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

I came face to face with the same God who created the universe and all living things.  He heard my despairing cry for help and waded out into the depths of my despair, took me by the hand, and spoke these words:  “Peace, be still!”  The troubled water surrounding me was calmed immediately and the storm in my life ceased the moment God spoke. 

It wasn’t until I opened the door of my hurting heart and asked God to forgive me of my sins that Jesus came in and took up residence.  It was like rivers of living water that rushed in to quench and renew every part of my dry, parching soul—a soul that had been thirsting for years, because of disobedient living.

(Revelation 3:20), “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”

Looking back, I remember the enthusiasm and excitement that was generated on that momentous day; with feelings of true freedom; freedom that only God brings.  I was born again!  I experienced the new birth through Jesus Christ that is spoken of in the Bible.  I was changed.  I was a new creation in Him. 

(2 Corinthians 5:17), “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 

My thoughts focused upon my loved ones and friends that were also searching for newness of life.  I was compelled by love to share this new found happiness with each of them, just as I am sharing with you through this writing.  I desired that they taste and drink from the same fountain that brought salvation to me.  I wanted them to experience the pardoning of sin in their life like I did, because I had found the answer—Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 

They needed to hear the good news that Jesus was the only way to find fulfillment for their lack of joy.  I believed that they too could experience words of life from the Lord, “I forgive you!”  All they needed to do was say yes to a loving, forgiving God.

You may ask, “How far is too far?” when considering the distance that you may have strayed from God’s grace.  There is no distance to great that God cannot span the gap between sinful man and Himself.  God is compassionate and loving.

(2 Peter 3:9), “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”   

People try to span this gap with good works, self-righteousness, religion, being a good person, and a host of other means, but nothing can unite humanity with God except by the outstretched arms of Jesus Christ who was nailed to the cross for our sins.  He suffered, bled, and died that we might have life through Him. 

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

With forgiveness comes son-ship, and with son-ship comes joint-heir status with Christ.  As heirs with Him we become recipients of God’s storehouse of unlimited blessings.  When we become His son or daughter, our old nature gives way to health in Jesus our Savior—a new and exciting nature reigns.    

The Holy Spirit now directs our destiny as we listen to His voice.  He prepares the way before us and makes our pathway straight as we step out in faith and live in His truth.  We are not our own, we belong to Jesus.  He purchased and paid the price for our salvation at Calvary. 

The angels in heaven rejoiced when I asked the Lord into my heart, because my soul was set free from sin.  I became a child of God that day.  There is nothing more important than asking Jesus into our heart.  He is the way, the truth, and the life.      

The lyrics to a popular chorus say it well:  “Oh yes, oh yes, I’m a child of the King, His royal blood now flows in my veins.  And I who was wretched and poor now can sing, praise God, praise God I’m a child of the King.”

After my conversion, I grew in spiritual maturity and involved myself in a local church.  My walk with the Lord was one of closeness and reverence.  I would often lift my head toward heaven and say, “You and me, right Lord?”  And I would imagine Him saying back, “That’s right son, it’s you and me.”  There was no doubt in my mind concerning my relationship with Him.  We were close. 

I love the Lord with all of my heart, mind, and soul.  I would not consider for a moment using foul language, or saying an unkind word about anyone, nor speak an untruth, or stretch the truth.  This was my old nature and not the new one that I now have.  I strive daily to live my life in such a way that it pleases the Lord.  

Righteousness is now dwelling within me.  I believe that negative actions and words can hurt and displease my Savior.  I do not want to crucify Jesus a fresh, because of an undisciplined standard of living.  My desire is to please Him and not allow the old person to raise his ugly head.  I found what I was looking for and don’t want to lose Him.  The word compromise is not in my vocabulary, but obedience is.

Though times of stumbling occur, the Holy Spirit comes along side and gives me strength in areas where I need it most, thus, helping me to rethink my actions, repent, and then continue on in faith.  I become more enlightened and privy to God’s bountiful grace that He willingly provides for all of His children.

It is wonderful to walk in newness of life knowing that God rewards obedience above and beyond disobedience.  He helps us to achieve His will in our life as we listen to Him.  God not only guides us, but at the very moment we deviate and veer off track, the Spirit of God gives us strength to turn from our erring ways, pick ourselves up, and continue on in victory serving Him. 

The thought, “How far is too far” need not enter our mind, because the wooing of God’s Spirit lovingly speaks to our heart and teaches us that obedience is better than sacrifice.  There is nothing more important than pleasing our Father in heaven and keeping in right standing with Him. 

(1 Corinthians 10:13), “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

As a side note to this writing, there is a drive in the heart of man to involve ourselves in many different areas of life.  Our family, home, and job; the work of the Lord, singing in the church choir, teaching a Sunday school class, and sitting on a church board; hunting, fishing, and boating; sitting for hours in front of a computer, making money, saving money, and spending money; are just a few areas of involvement.  The list goes on and on. 

If we are not careful we can become so involved in things that our allegiance to Christ shifts.  The early, Christian zeal that we experienced when we confessed Jesus as Lord becomes less and less important and grows stale.  Sharing the good news about the Lord takes second place to more pressing matters. 

Yes, we still love the Lord and want His blessings in our life, but we justify and reason within ourselves why there is no time to get involved in the things of God as we once did.  At the same time we are prone to make excuses for our lack of diligence.  We excuse ourselves by saying that there are only twenty-four hours in a day; seven days in a week; and the weekend only comes every five working days.  We tell ourselves that we deserve rest and relaxation on the weekends, because we have worked so hard making a living all week. 

Sadly, Christians can fall prey to complacency concerning the things of God.  For whatever reason, the newfound excitement and zeal that once filled our heart gives place to mediocrity, because there is a lack of accountability that influences responsibility.  Without accountability, responsibility wavers.  We must discipline ourselves to maintain an allegiance to godly principles and commitment—accountable to God.

Believers should not give into negative influences that take a toll on the inner spiritual person.  We must guard against things that try to persuade unconstructive behavior, which steal from us the true joy and peace that Jesus died to provide.  Things can keep us spiritually bankrupt if we fail to keep them in check.  We may need to re-prioritize who it is that’s most important in our life, and re-establish His place at the top of our list of priorities.  God deserves this position of Lordship.

Christians may have the attitude, “I’m still saved and going to heaven,” but are they taking anyone with them?  Are they having an impact on people like they once did?  Are they the positive influence they once were?  What are people seeing in them as they watch and pattern there lives after theirs? 

Does our life speak Christ’s attributes, or do our actions and attitudes lean toward the old nature that we were set free of?  As others scrutinize our daily walk, what are they seeing?  Are we as long suffering, meek, and gentle as when we first came to Christ, or are we giving into the rages and temperament of the old nature? 

Have we taken a step away from God, or are we still in the same place that we always have been?  It stands to reason that if it seems that God is farther away today than He was yesterday, it must be that we are the ones moving in the opposite direction and not the Lord. 

How far is too far to walk away from God—one step, two steps, or perhaps three?  How far is too far before we can not see our way back to Him?

When I was first saved I couldn’t wait until the church doors opened so I could go early and pray for the evening service.  I remember how real Christ was to me and that if anyone would have offered me a great sum of money to step away from Jesus, stability prevailed?  I was like a tree planted by the still water.

How long has it been since you prayed the night through?  Has unguarded actions taken you one step away from Christ, or perhaps two?  How far have you stepped away from grace, the place where sensitivity to God’s will is most prevalent? 

How far is too far?  We may think that we can still see our way back, but can we?  When was the last time you looked?  Have you rounded a corner or two and didn’t realize it?  Your sense of direction may still be keen and very strong, but is the person that is walking in your shadow able to find their way, or are you leading them into dangerous territory that is filled with detours?

How far is too far to venture?  How far away has the harbor of safety become?  Is one step too far from God?  How far is too far when attitudes begin to change, convictions soften, and desires change?  How far is too far when “I think I’m alright with God” sets in?  Is the voice of God hard to hear at times through the noise of things, because you have stepped away from His presence?  How far is too far?

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Siblings



Earlier in life I questioned why my parents didn’t have one more child after me.  I was the last of four children born to a mom and dad that were up in years when I “happened” along.  Perhaps this was the reason they stopped when they did. 

The sister closest to me in age is nine years older; the other sister is eleven years.  My brother is the oldest, being thirteen years my senior.  Both sisters were married at the age of sixteen, and my brother eighteen. 

As a child growing up it was hard finding a common bond or strong cord to bind us together as a unit, because of the age difference.  Though my siblings loved me, I didn't experience the camaraderie that the three of them had growing up together.  By the time I was old enough to communicate they were busy doing their own thing and married before I had a chance to really know and appreciate them.  Nevertheless, I grew up alone. 

My quiet nature and solemn independence developed early in life, because I spent much of my childhood inside the four walls of our home in Martinez, California.  I learned how to adapt and maintain my sanity as a recluse in my world of pretend.  I suffered with chronic illnesses, which made it necessary to remain indoors.  Coping with unfair disappointments were frequent.

Mom spoiled and loved me like a mother does, but that wasn’t enough in itself.  There was much that a boy my age needed to experience…mainly how to connect with other people.  I knew how to connect with God in prayer, because my faith as a child was strong. 

Dad believed in laying hands on the sick and saw God miraculously heal those that he prayed for.  He had a lot of practice with me.  I knew when Mom or Dad prayed for me that I would be okay.  I was familiar with the power of prayer, because I experienced healing first hand.

I have always been a little inward and standoffish; hard getting to know, because of my backward nature.  At times my personality has been misunderstood as being unfriendly and having a non-caring attitude.  Perhaps this was true at times, but for the most part, I had learned to adapt and deal with life one day at a time, because people were not a part of my world as a child. 

It wasn’t until recently that I experienced what it felt like to open up to my siblings and let them into my inner sanctum; to allow them to know me.  In doing so I realized the beauty that family ties held for me personally.  I must say that it feels pretty good.  It’s nice having siblings to call and email. 

I see them as friends and not strangers.  I know I can count on them when times are bad, and they can count on me.  It’s strange when I think of our relationship now, in our golden years, how it has blossomed and developed into something meaningful.  I feel saddened when I think of all the years that I didn't have them in my life, because of my lack of effort to connect.
 

Though we don’t see each other that often, there is awareness and closeness felt when we do.  I no longer hold ill feelings toward our parents for raising me without a younger brother or sister to play with.  I have found the joy of what it means to appreciate family.  My siblings and I have a common love-bond—a strong cord, which cannot be broken.

If you have issues with a sibling, resolve your differences.  It will be too late if they pass from this life unexpectedly.  Forgive them; love them; cherish them; while there is yet time.  You don’t want any regrets later.  Be the bigger person even if you are younger than they.  Make a sincere effort toward reconciliation.  You won’t regret it.

(Matthew 5:9), “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

(Ephesians 4:31-32), “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.”  vs.32 “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

(Colossians 3:12-13), “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;” vs.13 “bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

(Matthew 18:21-22), “Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?’ ” vs.22 “Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.’ ”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Hope

It is 2:20 in the afternoon on a windy, cold, and rainy day.  I just had an overwhelming urge to pick up my not so expensive ink pen and jot down the thoughts that are racing through my mind.  I just ran back to my car after mailing a get-well card to a dear friend that is quite ill.  I am sitting here thinking about some of the things that life brings our way:  happiness, sadness, and in the case of my friend, an illness that may soon take his life.

I have become closer to him in the past few months than in years gone by.  This friend has the same hair color and hairline as me.  His blue eyes are not as sharp as they once were, and his muscles are lacking strength, because of the effects that aging and his illness have had on his body. 

My friend is almost fourteen years my senior and is suffering from an ailment that was brought on by his past lifestyle.  If he could change things and do them over, I’m sure that he would.  With every beat of his heart and breath that he takes he thanks God for another day.  His suffering reminds me of a scripture in the Bible pertaining to our physical body.

(1 Corinthians 3:16-17), “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”  vs.17 “If anyone defiles the temple of God; God will destroy him.  For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”

It is like peering into a mirror and seeing me when I look into his face—a reflection that is most familiar.  His chubby belly hangs over his belt and causes his shirt to gap between the buttons, just like my shirt does on me.  Comments that I hear him say echo some of the statements that I have spoken; and his thoughts are ones that I have entertained.

I have heard him speak more about God the past few months than ever before.  I truly believe that my friend has received a wonderful gift from God—the gift of life.  Not that his health has improved, but his soul now has life.  I believe he has been born again.  I’ve heard people put it this way:  “I’ve seen the light!” relating to sins being forgiven in their life through Jesus Christ.

The emails that my friend frequently sends me have a certain zest to them—words that now express a different attitude about life, and yes, even death.  I do not sense a fear of the unknown in the words he uses, but rather an acceptance of the inevitable and a feeling of peace of what is to come.  He expresses hope, whereas, a few months ago he had none.  Things have definitely changed.

Every person that is born has an appointment with destiny.  There is no way to escape the inevitable providence that awaits us.  We needn’t fear the unknown when we know Jesus as our personal Savior.  His perfect love casts out all fear.  This is the peace that my friend now has.

(Hebrews 9:27-28), “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.”

At this moment there is a feeling of finality closing in around me and I find it hard to swallow, because of the lump in throat.  Though my eyes are welling up with tears I must realize that one day my friend will no longer be with us.  No more will I be able to send him e-mails or receive his; the ones he calls, “brain dust”—the funny ones, the serious ones, and yes, those that are sent just because. 

I will not be able to pick up the telephone to call him and just shoot the breeze, for he will have closed his eyes for the last time on earth; saying goodbye to this life.  But as he opens his eyes again he will find himself in a beautiful land not made with hands; where the streets are of purest gold—a place where he will call home, forever—heaven. 

There will be no more pain and suffering.  My friend will be reunited with loved ones that have gone on before him.  The angels of God will be rejoicing, because another child of God has come home.  Though all of these things are wonderful, he will see outstretched hands having been pierced-through with large nails, taking hold of his hands, and Jesus saying softly, “Enter into the joy of your Lord.  Welcome home my son.”

Though I can hardly see to continue writing, because of the tears, the hope that I possess is the same hope that my friend has.  This God-given hope gives both of us an assurance that we will surely see each other again, because we serve the same master.  I am blessed to have a friend like my big brother.  I love you brother!

I wrote the above writing on January 11, 2001 and sent it to my brother, while he was still living.  He recently passed away in September, 2011, at the age of seventy-nine.  He is certainly missed.  I am thankful for the hope that I will see him again one day; believing that he is in heaven with Jesus, without pain.

(2 Corinthians 5:6-8), “So we are always confident, knowing that while se are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord.”  vs.7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”  vs.8 “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd



Acceptance



When I rise early in the morning I see you.  You are nothing particularly pleasing to look at, because I see you as you are; tired, with bloodshot eyes do to insomnia the night before.  You see me for who I am, and I see you for what you have become.  The look says it all, because of your retirement into marriage—too lazy to exercise, and too busy to care.

Most mornings begin with a blank stare with no conversation.  How many years have I faithfully pulled myself out of a comfortable, warm bed to get ready for work; a job where my supervisor doesn’t even appreciate me?  For all of this I never get any more than a quiet stare from you.

I look into your wrinkled face and try grasping what your silence is saying to me.  As I feel the texture of your graying hair I am made to realize that I’m stuck with you for the rest of my life and there’s nothing I can do about it.  Lately, the longing in my heart to see a much younger face each morning quickly fades into the reality of the moment—you are who you are. 

I pursue my quest for satisfaction in my memories and remember what was, and then agree with myself to accept what I see and to be happy, not miserable for the rest of my life, because of what I have to look at each morning.  It is hard to do this.  When I look at your belly that takes on the appearance of being five months pregnant I remember those once, tight abs that have surrendered to lose flab. 

It’s hard to hold my tongue and not say in disgust, “If you would’ve only kept up with your exercising you wouldn’t be in the shape you’re in today!”  When you turn around I see the varicose veins in your legs and it saddens me to think that these same legs, once trim and free from blemish, are what they are today, because of aging.

When I stop and consider that the opposite of growing older is the separation from my loved ones forever, I want to grow older for sure.  Any day that I wake up on this side of the grass is a good day.  I am determined to be less critical of myself every morning as I have been in the past, and I vow that when I look at my reflection in the dressing room mirror, I am going to be happy and smile even though the mirror speaks the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. 

I am going to grow older, gracefully, and not think of myself in the manner for which I have written here-to-for in this writing.  My motto for today and from here out is “Don’t worry; be happy!”  Acceptance of one’s self in the morning, rather than fretting and complaining makes the day go much better.

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

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Yes or No

When was the last time you encountered calamity or some type of negative encounter through indecisive decision making on your part?  I’m talking about the kind of mishap that produced confusion, which caused your stomach to sour and tie up in knots.  You knew the right thing to do, but you refused to act upon this knowledge.  A simple yes or no would have sufficed, but instead, you made it difficult on yourself and everyone concerned, because you failed to listen to your heart. 

The above struggle is called, double minded thinking.  One side of you is pulling in one direction, while the other side is pulling with equal force in the opposite direction—you are in a quandary; do I or don’t I; yes or no.  It’s a battle between wants and practical thinking.  The cause lies within the battle field of one’s thought process.  Choosing yes or no becomes a mental turmoil created by indecision, which produces instability.

(James 1:5-8), “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”  vs.6 “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.”  vs.7 “For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;” vs.8 “he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

When trying to make something selfishly right, people sometimes dump practical thinking and leave it in the dugout that I call, game of life, as they step up to the plate of desire expecting to hit a home run for a one person team.  They think up every reason under the sun how to attain their wants, through entitlement; having an attitude—“Because I deserve it.” 

At the same time, they conjure up every excuse in the book why they can’t engage in legitimate causes, such as non-profit organizations that minister to the needs of others.  If it doesn’t line up with their selfish, self-gratifying nature, they don’t get involved, especially when it involves the giving of money. 

Most always, these people find the cash to support their cravings and desires, but seldom have the capital for things they don’t feel is in their best interest to support and throw money at.  Think about it, if everyone thought this way the needs of churches and charity programs would suffer.  As it is, there are only a small percentage of church attendees that support their church financially.  It’s shameful.

What if everyone allowed themselves to act upon integrity and the goodness of stewardship, while permitting sensitivity to find top billing rather than self?  If they set aside desires and gave a tenth of their earnings, they would see the promises of God unfold.  I believe they would discover the Bible to be inerrant and infallible.  Blessings beyond their comprehension would be poured upon them, because the windows of heaven open to those that give.  With the same measure given, it will be measured back to them.

When we do what we know is right, whether financially or otherwise, God rewards our giving.  He imparts a sense of wellbeing, plus His support and provisions, which is put into our bosom; pressed down, shaken together, and running over, (Luke 6:38).  The key is to give first—a not so popular undertaking for some people.  It is difficult to do, but God invites everyone to put Him to the test through giving. 

(Malachi 3:10), “‘Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.’ ”

God cannot lie.  If He said that He will reward those that give, believe what He says in the Bible.  Try it and see!  Your wants and desires will take care of themselves.  The dividends will more than exceed your expectations as you allow yourself to be used of God in touching others by means of your pocketbook.

Even though we know the right thing to do, it is not uncommon to still contend with the ‘yes or no’ battle within us.  But we can conquer this demon through trusting God.  Indecisive decision making will mature, while double mindedness subsides when we trust Him.  A homerun can be achieved when God’s team, the body of Christ, works together toward the common goal of winning souls for Him.   

The radiance of glimmering achievements that accompany giving will not only bring satisfaction, eyes will be opened to God’s way of doing things.  His plan for using mankind will be revealed when individuals like you and me bring about His will as we remain sensitive to His bidding; doing what the Holy Spirit requests of us. 

We will see positive results not only in our lives, but the lives of those that we have helped.  There is no greater reward than this.  Satisfaction and well-being will prevail in our everyday walk with God as we allow Him access to our assets.

(Luke 6:38), “Give and it will be given to you:  good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.  For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Praying for direction in times of decision-making, while listening closely to what God is telling us to do, involve obedience.  The hardest part of obedience is the follow through, especially when it comes to money. 

As we put God to the test by stepping out in faith and giving away from ourselves, we find that God’s Word does not return void.  He makes a way where there seems to be no way, because we obey the voice of God.  When yes is settled on in the ‘yes or no’ quandary of thinking, needs are met on both sides of our giving.

Written by,

Papa Boyd



3D Marriages

It’s amazing to me how many marriages are ending up in divorce courts.  Divorce is on the upswing like never before.  The sanctity of marriage is under constant bombardment from outside influences that are tearing families apart.

Undisciplined, immoral living, when allowed to dominate better judgment, is also to blame for problems in the home.  Even church-affiliated people can suffer devastating blows from untamed thoughts that stimulate desires to disobey God’s laws.  We must put on the Whole Armor of God spoken of in (Ephesians 6:10-18) to help resist attacks from Satan.

People that are unhappy in marriage are finding pleasure on websites that are inappropriate for viewing; including chat sites that produce delusions of belonging and a feeling of being needed.  People that visit these sites are looking for love in the wrong places.  Commitment, fidelity, honor, dedication, and true love, are becoming a thing of the past.  They are being stolen away by the devil, the enemy of our soul. 

Integrity is slipping out the back door faster than love can be manifested at the front door when a spouse comes home.  Wedding vows are becoming less and less important.  “Till death do us part” is on the decline in marriages that have lost sight of these five words.  The Americans for Divorce Reform, estimates that close to 50 percent of marriages in the United States will end in divorce if current trends continue.

Courting, marriage, and the honeymoon are all wonderful, but for many naïve couples these ventures are only the beginning of the rest of their life together.  Early retirement into marriage sometimes settles in when the honeymoon is over.  The attitude and actions that a person exudes presents problems.  A non-verbal attitude can say, “Now that I’ve got them I can relax and be myself.”  If this warped thinking is catered to, it won’t be long before problems manifest themselves.

When a person retires into marriage, the notion of having to prove oneself or putting their best foot forward often loses momentum and falls by the wayside.  When kicking back in the marriage, as it were, the result often entails taking the other person for granted.  A disconcerted and flustered existence with one another soon emerges, because the excitement and challenges are becoming stale and trite. 

A man and woman must keep the spark in their marriage alive.  This spark ignites intimacy and passion; otherwise, the marriage can become a 3D marriage—a 50/50 chance of surviving.  It takes working together and keeping communication open.

A 3D marriage is when a husband or wife becomes Disappointed in their marriage, which breeds Discouragement, and then ulcerates into Disinterest.  There is a forth D that can result in the Dissolution of a marriage, which then becomes one of the sad statistics of a broken home.

A relationship can spiral downward if efforts to stimulate each other’s emotions are not ignited and set aflame once again.  Keeping a marriage filled with contentment and satisfaction is most important and certainly needed.  There is no reason that a marriage should become a 3D marriage.  All it takes is seeing the other person through eyes of courtship; remembering to respect and treat them with honor; like you want to be treated.

The wife can be the saving grace of a marriage.  They have the power to keep the fire burning and the relationship fresh and exciting.  The majority of men are inherently visual, while some women are more passive regarding sexual fantasies, though women can be quite spirited and sexually motivated, depending upon their state of mind.  Men must show tenderness and admiration at all times, which will encourage a better frame of mind in their better half.

A man is stimulated sexually by merely looking at his wife’s nude body, or thinking of what exciting things might take place in bed tonight, more so than the reverse is true.  Women have many things on their mind that make up their world of activities, responsibilities, and obligations. 

Sex is only one part of these important things in their life, and in some marriages can become second or even third place to other matters.  Making love can easily fall within the same parameters as being a responsibility; being on the same plane as duties, if a wife is not appreciated and shown love by her husband.  The sooner a man realizes this, the better off he will be not only sexually, but every other way. 

A woman may fail to recognize the three needs of their husband.  They are:  the need to feel important; the need for food; and the need for sex…not necessarily in this order.  As I have stated, communication is key.  Every couple must strive to not allow a communication gap to separate their love from one another.  Without communication, a failed marriage is imminent.  Al Scalpone, a professional commercial-writer, said it well: “A family that prays together stays together.”

(Ephesians 5:22, 25, 28, 33), “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.”  vs.25 “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”  vs.28 “So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.”  vs.33 “Nevertheless, let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”

When I married my wife, our pastor read from the “love chapter” in the Bible.  We have endeavored to show respect and love to each other for forty years now, and have kept the 3D’s from finding a foothold in our marriage.  It takes two people pulling together in the unity of love to maintain a successful relationship in the institution of marriage.

(1 Corinthians 13:4-8&13), vs.4 “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;” vs.5 “does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;” vs.6 “does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;” vs.7 “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”  vs.8 “Love never fails…” vs.13 “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd



Now is the Day



In this competitive, world-trade market and computer age of technological discoveries, the fact remains that the United States in its quest to maintain superiority over other nations is falling short of being the super-power it once was.  Businesses everywhere are losing vision and the desire of being a successful entrepreneurship. 

Free and private enterprises are failing do to governmental rules and regulations that negatively impact visionaries.  The owners of these businesses cannot see the worth of venturing into uncharted or familiar waters like they once did.  They are saying, “It’s just not worth it.”  Consequently, capitalism is on the downswing. 

This lack of imaginative creativity reminds me of the saying, “Throwing out the baby with the bath water.”  People cannot see the important things in life when everything around them is soiled and dirty, because of unsavory leaders in high places that make the rules and regulations to fit their own personal agendas.  On the other hand, there are other entrepreneur/individual stories that need our attention.      

Let’s bring it closer to home.  When trying to make ends meet, or manipulating the system to bring positive, financial results, some individuals fail to see their personal responsibility to loved ones in the home.  They fall short in maintaining stability, which consists of true compassion and love.  I call it, “blind ambition.”  It is a drive to attain bigger and better things at the expense of another person’s pain and suffering, while getting caught up in placing their selfish desires ahead of family members and friends. 

To take it one step nearer; it places the family on shaky ground, at risk for failure, when there is a failure to recognize that family must take precedent over “things.”  This happens when an unleashed passion to obtain fame and fortune blinds better judgment.  The behavior is like a devastating plague that looms over a crowd of people, yet moves quickly through the ranks of vulnerable individuals, bringing separation and death.  It is difficult to stop, but not impossible.

The surrounding murkiness of materialism tends to impair the vision of those that allow themselves to be caught up in monetary gain.  Failure to recognize this inner obsession of oneself; not seeing the need of submitting to the psychological and emotional lack in loved ones, parallel the illustration regarding the baby left in filthy bath water.  Those that should be most important can be unknowingly thrown out, because of unawareness and poor vision, which are the two ingredients that create and spell TROUBLE.

Our nation’s ability to be strong and influential is due, in part, to computer related technology.  When this technology is harnessed by knowledgeable individuals, results are imminent.  Our genius-minded scientists are good at what they do, because of hard work, long hours of research, and aspirations for success.

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

Knowledge has soared to heights that literally 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 could very possibly be one of the variables, if not the number one pinnacle of discoveries, that may prove devastating to all mankind one day.

As Americans, our daily lives are directly impacted by the hustle and bustle that is created by this computer age.  The “I want it now” syndrome that influences superficial desires usually overshadow “farsighted” people that cannot see the importance of loved ones that are standing next to them; making it probable to fall victim to the intellectual bombardment of programming. 

This influence not only captures the workaholic in its web of deception and false dreams, but the unsuspecting bystander as well.  It is like a vacuum that draws relentlessly into itself at supersonic speed. 

The blinding element that is becoming widespread is that most people are unaware that it’s happening to them.  They fail to realize that insensitivity is looming and that they are becoming desensitized, because of repetitive main-lining of self-indulgent living.

Many unsuspecting people are suffering from self-inflected abuse that's caused by an over zealous approach to life.  It’s similar to masochists that abuse themselves.  A man or woman out of control, attempting to climb the ladder of success, 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.  The only difference, masochists enjoy it.  Everyone suffers that are around people with obsessive behaviors. 

Not only does the compulsive worker suffer scars, because of their uninhibited obsession, loved ones that are closest to them also receive scars.  The scars may not leave physical markings of abuse, 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 manner in the name of prosperity, but many do.

Environmental pressures from ranking individuals above us can also play a part in the lifestyle that we live.  They capitalize on performance in the workplace to the point that fatigue and exhaustion become a way of life for the diligent, dedicated employee.  This can exert an undo pressure upon the home front and all concerned.  It becomes so pronounced and ingrained in daily living that the high geared, compelling drive to achieve at whatever the cost, consumes countless hours.  This determines the amount and intensity of the abuse that is felt. 

Pressures can also dictate a premise in living.  It’s like being in a dictatorship environment—a pressure cooker setting—surrounded by the challenge to produce, which is ever present.  It is a constant feeling of, “Time waits for no man.”  No longer are pictures that read, “Home Sweet Home” hung on cold, white painted walls in homes.  Instead, because of the unrest that prevails, the home becomes a stopping off place between meetings and business trips.

A “get ahead” mentality compels people to strive for perfection, whereas, perfection is impossible to attain.  If the home or business computer is not fast enough, a faster, more improved model is bought to keep up with the growing demand for a higher plane of excellence.  This endeavor only provides a temporary, false sense of security for the short-lived feelings that exist in a driven mind.  Keeping in pace with the challenges that attract one’s allegiance is foremost.  No thought is given to time spent on the computer, while the rest of the family remains unnoticed.

Everywhere they go and the things they do seem like it’s a rush to succeed and fulfill social status.  If anyone should get in their way, God help them.  Their daily trek to and from work on crowded streets and freeways, unnerving as it is, challenges their ability to maintain self-control should a slower moving vehicle impede their progress.

To solve this problem, many 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 it has become a thing of the past to sit around the dinner table with the family and share a meal together.  Everyone is going their separate ways.  If the family does find the time, it is driving through a fast foods Drive-Thru, eating in the car as they hurry to keep appointments that were almost 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, “Isn’t life grand!”  We stand in amazement at how quickly we have turned another year older.  We are busy, busy, and busy.  Too many activities are competing for our time and attention as another year has come and gone.  Failure to recognize the importance of spending quality time with one another and worse yet, God, has also past.  This continuing problem can destroy relationships with family members and God Almighty if changes are not implemented.

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

People seldom kneel beside their bed anymore to call out for strength from God.  Instead, they fall into bed too tired to utter any kind of praise at all.  They spend little time, if any, telling God how much they love Him and what He means to them.

Busy schedules can push God out of the picture, “before quick can get ready.”  The very One who created time is being neglected.  Because of this, I believe the following words were written in the Bible.

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

God knew mankind’s nature and the busyness that they would find themselves doing.  He knew that they would prefer to put off until tomorrow the thing that should be done today. 

For many people tomorrow never comes.  For this reason it is important to listen and obey the Holy Spirit as He speaks to the inner consciousness.  People need to heed the convicting power that God allows to take place in their heart.  Every effort to pay attention to His prodding is of the utmost importance.  It is the difference between life and death.

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

God is saying by His Spirit that there is nothing in this world worth attaining that is more important than serving Him.  Some people struggle unnecessarily when they put things before God.  Finding happiness without God is an effort in futility.  It is an undiscovered, unfulfilled reality.  He is waiting patiently for total allegiance—happiness follows. 

Our fleeting time on earth is merely a dressing room for eternity.  How we live life in this flesh will determine where we live life in the spirit after passing from this life.  It is most important to include God in our daily scheduling and take time for Him.  As this is done, a realization will come into view that the more time we give to God the more enjoyable and carefree living becomes.

God’s blessings abide when we allow Him to reside within our spirit—abundant living is experienced—life takes on new meaning.  When we open our eyes each morning we will exclaim, “It’s a new day that the Lord has made!  I will rejoice and be glad in it!” 

God’s strength is forever present to help us face the challenges of another day.  This knowledge alone will alleviate tension and stress if we cast our cares upon Father God.  Now is the day of salvation through Jesus Christ.  In Him we live.

Written by,

Papa Boyd