The Walking Dead

I don’t know your taste in movies, but for me, horror films are at the bottom of the list.  A movie I saw, relevant to zombies, I thought was grotesque and bizarre; not worthy of my time to watch it.  The subject matter, in my opinion, was ridicules regarding the topic of the walking dead.  Not all was a total loss.  The following thoughts emerged from my disgust.

Computers are amazing when trying to research something.  I went to my search engine and typed in zombie and I could not believe the overabundance of pictures that popped up.

I studied each face and the varying makeup schemes used to depict horror at its lowest corruption; each one worse than the other.  All the while I was asking God for thoughts that might inspire a reassessment of certain values that need changing in those that read these words—food for thought.

Three men came to mind; deranged psychopaths that the mere mention of their name has become a metaphor for evil in today’s journals and individual memories.  They are synonymous with wicked, vile, and sinfully corrupt people that are linked with depravity and reprobate viciousness—Charles Manson, Jim Jones, and Jeffery Dahmer.

This writing is not to glorify these three in any way, but it is meant to stimulate one’s thinking regarding unseen visage that is hidden from view.  How a person is inside, beneath the facade of well doing, which is coupled with a false pretense of “all is well,” are not always seen on the outside, hence, Manson, Jones, and Dohmer.

These men were conniving deceivers; cleaver manipulators of people, which are attributes of the devil.  On the outside they were intelligent; having charisma, but below the surface lie dead men’s bones, characteristic of zombies—the walking dead—seeking those that they could destroy; devouring them mentally, spiritually, and physically in the vein of Satan.

(1 Peter 5:8), “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

They were among the walking dead that we unknowingly rub shoulders with each day in this godless, self-seeking generation of thrill seekers.  These men remind me of the scribes and Pharisees in the Bible that were hypocrites—the walking dead.

(Matthew 23:27-28) “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees; hypocrites!  For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.”  vs.28 “Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”

Two of these men were cult leaders, Messiahs, as it were; influencing their followers, ‘the family’, in horrific ways.  Those that followed Charles Manson were brainwashed into committing hennas murders in 1969, with no thought or fear of the consequences and having no remorse for those they mutilated. 

The mass suicide of members of People’s Temple in Jonestown, Guyana in 1979, was tragic.  They followed Jim Jones to a land far from our protective shores to their death. 

Jeffery Dohmer was an American serial killer and sex offender.  He committed the rape, murder, and dismemberment of 17 men and boys between 1978 and 1991.  Many of his latest murders also involved cannibalism and necrophilia (a fascination with death and erotic attraction to corpses).  He enticed victims with his good looks and pleasing personality.  He was quite handsome and innocent looking. 

Lucifer was the most beautiful of all the angels in heaven before his fall; trying to usurp God’s authority and position.  It is this beauty that lures and then lulls people into a false sense of trust; believing lies and then suffering punishment, because of them.

Not just uneducated people fall for the devil’s lies, but intelligent, scholars of learning and people in-between can walk blindly into the web of corruption that begins with the first sin; all the time walking away from the protective shores of Almighty God who loves them dearly.  Each time they sin it becomes easier the next time and the next time after that.  Before long, their conscious can become dry as dead men’s bones.

The devil is a wolf in sheep’s clothing and we need the Holy Spirit abiding in us to reveal Satan’s schemes and deceptions.  The Spirit of God prevents us from becoming another notch on Satan’s weapon of death, which is anything anti-Christ.  

As long as we abide in truth and not enticed by evil or evil doers, spiritual death will be held at bay. Jesus was victorious over death, hell, and the grave, and because He lives we too can live.

We need not become like zombies on the inside; lacking peace and joy.  Through Jesus Christ and His forgiveness of sin we can have an abundant life as children of God, and not live like the walking dead.

The Ultimate Punishment

I have drafted only a few thoughts regarding the following subject matter.  I prefer to share encouraging messages that uplift the spirit rather than such an alarming topic.  But without the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, how can a person know the fullness of God’s love and the reasons He gave His Son to die on a cross for the sins of mankind?

There is no doubt in my mind that God loves humanity.  To give one’s child to save heathens and sinners like me exceeds comprehension, but God first loved us before we loved him and paid the ultimate price for sin through the brutal death of Jesus.

I believe most everyone has heard the word ‘hell’ spoken sometime in their life; and no doubt they understand that it is a place to avoid.  Old time preachers use to preach sermons of hell-fire and brimstone to their parishioners, because of the obvious; hell is an awful place of torment. 

It seems that with this present generation of preachers, fewer messages center on this dreadful place.  I hear message after message about God’s love, which is certainly needed and received, but messages on hell should not be ignored even though they make the hearer uncomfortable. 

No-one has visited hell to know just how hot it is or if it even exists.  I believe that it is searing hot; a place of endless suffering.  It exists because the Bible tells me that it does.

I do not have to jump off a ten story building to experience the sudden stop at the bottom to prove that death is real.  I need not go into outer space to grasp the meaning of weightlessness when I can read about it in science books.  I do not have to sail across the ocean, like Columbus, to prove that the world is round and not flat. 

The Bible is the inerrant Word of God.  He has protected its integrity through the millenniums for our perusal and the ingesting of truth.  It is the will and testament of God to all mankind, because He desires that no man perish, but that all would come unto repentance. 

God wants to save us from the punishment of hell, which is the sentence for unbelievers that reject God’s Son.  Jesus is the only means of salvation.  Jehovah God instructed honorable men of high moral values and godly principles to pen His words on scrolls as the Holy Spirit breathed upon each of them.  

The Bible is for our spiritual gain and edification, which gives insight about redemption and that it is free to everyone and not earned by anyone's works, lest they boast in themselves.  Salvation is the gift from God through Jesus.  We need only to accept God’s Word as truth and receive Jesus Christ as Lord, and we will be saved.

People are sometimes narrow-minded and quick to say that the Bible is a book of fairy tales and full of errors.  These people have not met the God that I know.  In that He created the heavens and earth and all that dwell on earth, don’t you think He is omnipotent enough to protect His Word from err?  I do!  I believe the Bible is God's Word to you and me.  Its content is for those desiring truth and willing to believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ unto salvation.

People everywhere are pushing their agenda to nullify the Bible as divinely inspired, because it causes them to see themselves as they really are; lost without a Savior.  The Bible reveals the evilness in those that scoff at its truth.  They do not want to perceive for a moment that its content might be correct, so they refuse to accept any of it as being valid for today's needs.  The mere thought of going to hell is more than they are willing to admit could happen.

Believers that abide in the teachings of the Bible and testify of its truth are seen by unbelievers as heretics, (those that hold beliefs opposed to them).  For this reason they removed Bibles and prayer out of public schools and took down the 10 Commandments from walls in courtrooms and city offices.  A Christian in the military can now be court-martialed if they share their faith with any man or woman in uniform.

But the above efforts to stifle truth and any other negative attempts to do likewise cannot cancel out the truth of God’s Word.  Though they burn the Bible, it still does not remove or negate the punishment for such acts of rebellion against Christians or sinning against God.  Hell is still a real place where sinners will spend eternity without God’s presence.

Though hell is the punishment that God created for Satan and his angels, because of their rebellion in heaven; if any person goes there, they enter uninvited; doing so because of their own choices and sinful lifestyle.  They have rejected the only escape from such a place—Jesus.  There is no other name under heaven whereby we can be saved.

I am not referring to hell as being the ultimate punishment in the title of this writing, which in itself is most devastating, but I believe the ultimate punishment is the total absence of God’s Spirit.  Never to feel His loving kindness or the tenderness of ongoing efforts to woo a person to Jesus, even in their sinful state, is beyond my intellectual capacity to grasp.  I cannot imagine what it would be like to not feel the Lord, because the Holy Spirit not only strove with me when I was away from God, but in my every day walk as a Christian He is with me.

Evidenced in Bible scriptures are the last moments before Jesus died on the cross.  He not only endured a manipulated trial with false accusers giving false testimony against Him, but He suffered the scourging of His body, large nails driven through His hands and feet, and the rejection of those around Him.  But when God the Father turned His back on Jesus, this abandonment was more than He could bear.  Jesus cried out with a loud voice!  “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

(Matthew 27:46), “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me’ ”    

The heart of Jesus melted within Him during the crucifixion, but when God turned away from Him, I believe that this was the moment that Jesus became sin; taking upon Himself the sins of the world; every sin from the smallest of white lies to murder in the first degree; especially the sins of those that crucified Him.  While hanging there He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

I believe that Jesus suffered the sting of death that the Bible says is sin.  Could it be that He died the death of a sinner; lost, without hope, and feeling what they feel when they pass?  Perhaps the Father had to turn away from His Son, because God cannot look upon sin.  He is holy and all that is good; the total opposite of unrighteousness.

When a person accepts Jesus as their Savior, God the Father sees them as perfect, because of the blood that Jesus shed on the cross.  His blood makes every forgiven sinner pure as the driven snow.  No longer does God see the blackness of a sinful heart, because He sees each individual through the blood of His perfect Son.  We become a new creation through Christ the Lord.  Old things pass away and all things become new, because the blood cleanses us from sin.

Born again Believers are children of the Father in heaven and need not worry about the ultimate punishment of separation.  God will never leave or forsake them, but will always be in their presence throughout eternity.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Scoff If You Must

I know that many of my thoughts do not parallel everyone’s point of view or way of thinking, but if you will take the next few minutes to peruse this short writing, I promise that it will not be a waste of your time.

I remember the month and year that I started this journey with God.  I was thrilled with the changes that took place when I asked Him to forgive me of my sins.  Peace flooded my soul like nothing I had experienced here-to-fore.  It was like being born again.  I was a new creation, because of Jesus, the Son of God.

A person will never understand the true essence of what I am talking about until they try the Lord for themselves.  They cannot know the pureness of heart that I felt when He lifted the load of sin that I was carrying.  I literally took a deep breath and exclaimed, “I can breathe!”  God had set me free.

I shared this experience with all of my friends and others that God brought my way.  Some listened; some scoffed.  One of my buddies said, “You’ll be back doing the things you did before!  Quit trying to cram your religion down my throat!”  He then added a few more exclamatory expletives.  I only wanted him to experience the same liberating joy as me.

My response was, “Scoff if you must, but I found what I was looking for.  Why would I ever go back to the life I was living?”  I then said calmly, “When you want to hear more you’ll have to come to me.”  We parted company.

In the next day or so I shared my experience with another one of my friends.  He was so moved that he knelt in my living room and repeated a short prayer after me; repenting of his sins.  He immediately experienced what it meant to be born again—becoming a Christian.  Joy flooded his soul and his countenance changed.  It happened that quickly.

He stood and said, “I can look you straight in the eyes now, because I’ve got what you’ve got.”  He knew what I was like before my conversion and saw the change that God had made in my life.  He wanted this joy for himself and received it the moment he invited Jesus into his heart.

Leaving my apartment, it was like he was walking on a cloud; full of love and bliss.  He was definitely a changed man; a new Believer in Christ.

Now that I think about it, he was one of the first guys that saw me the next day after my encounter with God the night before.  I remember him asking, “What’s wrong with you?”  He saw a smile on my face and life in my eyes, whereas, the weeks prior, I never smiled, because I was full of hate and bitterness.

In the days that followed, several more of my friends gave their heart to the Lord.  Everyone was set free from the bondage of sin just like I was.  They found new life.

Remember the guy that said, “Stop trying to cram your religion down my throat!”  He came to me when no-one was around and said these words:  “I’ve been watching your life and I want what you’ve got.”  He too accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. 

His disposition and attitude changed the moment he asked God to forgive him of his sins.  I could see the change.  God is no respecter of person.  What He has done for others He will do for you.

I cannot explain how it happens; it just does, because God made it easy to become His child; a part of the family of God.  It is not hard to pass from death (sinful living) unto life (sins forgiven), because the price for sin was paid in full when Jesus died on the cross for you and me. 

All that a person has to do is believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and they will be saved.  Instantaneously, they become a son or daughter of God when they ask Him to forgive their sins.  The Bible is straightforward and tells us that it is that simple.

(Romans 10:9-10), “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”  vs.10 “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

(1 John 1:9), “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Talk about scoff, ridicule, and downright rude mockery; my carpenter, framing partner that I worked with for about a year would mouth off at me so badly, regarding my faith, that one day he got me so riled that I yelled at him and said, “If I wasn't a Christian I’d knock you in the head with this hammer!” 

The old nature that God set me free of raised its ugly head as I yielded to my rage.  I didn’t hit him, but I wanted to.  After feeling convicted of my behavior, I went to him a short time later and apologized for my anger and asked him to forgive me.  He told me that this act of humility impressed him more than all of my preaching.

After the job ended we went our separate ways.  A couple of years later my phone rang and who do you think it was?—my old framing partner.  He apologized for always scoffing at me and trying to get under my skin.  He thanked me for all of the times that I witnessed to him about the love of Christ and the changes that He could make in his life. 

He said, “I’m in church now and I’ve got my family in church.”  He shared for awhile and when I hung up the phone I cried like a baby.  Scoff if you must, but God will make a difference if you are unsatisfied with the statuesque and willing to give Him a try.  You will not regret it; I promise.  Peace is just a prayer away.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Nasty Is As Nasty Does

I know the title of this writing is somewhat bizarre, but let’s see where the thought takes us.  The word nasty implies filth and uncleanness or it could mean morally offensive and cruel.  It is the opposite of clean and pure or wholesome and unadulterated.

When I wasn't serving God, my desires, goals, and aspirations were tainted with the pollution of Satan’s play yard.  I was very much acquainted with this toxic influence, yet, not really feeling quite at home in its surroundings, because of the battle that was going on inside me—good vs. evil.

The backdrop of my environment was not conducive to decency or favorable influences.  It was a cesspool of indulgence and transgressions against God.  My speech was filthy and my disposition and temperament were just as nasty. 

I disliked most people that I met and repelled anything that resembled wholesomeness and purity, because these things revealed clarity to my mind, which were the things lacking inside of me.  I refused to face the true nature of my circumstances by closing myself away from such things.

On occasion, when I looked into the mirror, I peered deeply into my eyes trying to figure out the person looking back at me.  All I saw was the nasty person that I had become, but something more was revealed; I saw unrest with a splash of hopelessness even though my personality was strong, or perhaps I should say, headstrong.

If I couldn’t do a certain thing it couldn’t be done.  I was very confident in my abilities to achieve something that I set my mind to do.  And I was quite independent.  My strength was my power, but it was camouflaged under a beard and biker clothes, which served as crutches to help convey my rebellious spirit.   

My appearance spoke, “hoodlum” when anyone saw me; not that all bikers are thugs by any stretch of the imagination.  I am talking about me, only; on a personal level.  This was the persona that I desired to portray.  I wanted people to think of me as rough; without feelings, and I did not care whose toes I stepped on to show it.

I was doing things that were nasty and unacceptable in most circles, especially in the eyes of the law, but I couldn't care less.  I had a rebellious heart of stone, but in the hidden corners of my mind were the teachings of a Christian mom and dad that tried to raise me with values and a love for God.

The farther I walked away from the teachings of my youth the nastier I became in thought and appearance.  Even my countenance revealed the bitterness inside.  The statement “nasty is as nasty does” followed me down this dark path that I had chosen; not caring who I hurt in the process.  

The truth of the matter is that the one person I was hurting most was myself, mentally and physically; and let us not forget the spiritual distress that was going on inside me. 

It was a wide road to destruction that I was traveling, but I was too busy having fun and too much into myself to realize what I was really searching for was not self-governing independence, it was God that I needed.  He was ready and willing to satisfy the deep longing in my heart and fill the emptiness inside of me with His abounding love. 

Little by little the feeling of hopelessness crept in like a thief that was stealing the purity of my youth.  It was closing its stranglehold around my soul, which caused me to doubt myself and wonder what tomorrow held as a consolation prize for my hardened heart.

Peace ebbed away and fear took its place, because I knew where my soul would spend eternity if I were to meet my maker in the rebellious state that I was in.

The teachings of Mom and Dad kept reappearing in my minds eye; the teachings about God and His love and about Jesus who died on a cross for my sins.  I kept suppressing these thoughts in that they revealed the true condition of my existence.  I was lost without a Savior, and I refused to see this truth.  The shock of reality was too much to bear so I censored it.

Things were at their lowest and it was impossible to dig myself out of the mire of sin that was pulling me downward like quicksand.  My mental state sunk to a dangerous low even though I had a new car, a wallet full of money, and girlfriends.  Wine, women, and song was my anthem, until thoughts like, “Is this all there is to life?” kept repeating itself again and again in my mind.

I felt that all hope was gone, because I had spurned God’s love one too many times and trampled Him underfoot, having gone beyond the limits of His love.  These were the lies Satan was feeding me.  In essence he was saying, “Nasty is as nasty does.”

The devil kept repeating the following words over and over and over in my befuddled mind; “You are unclean and unworthy of God’s mercy.”  But God loved me so much, even in the sinful state I was in, that He gave His only Son to die for my sins.  He loved me before I first loved Him.

Jesus was waiting patiently for me to realize my need of a Savior.  I felt the gentle coxing and wooing of the Holy Spirit encouraging me to go the way of the Lord where the power of God would set me free from the bondage of sin.

In my mind’s eye I saw an old, antique balance scale.  On one side were the things that Satan offered me (the life I was living), and on the other side were the things of God (peace, joy, happiness, and hope).  There was no question as to which side outweighed the other—God’s unmerited love.  I wanted God!  I was at a crossing point in my life.

Nothing I could have done in myself could ever merit God’s love, because I was nasty and unclean.  My righteousness was as filthy rags in the sight of God, but He loved me unconditionally; just as I was; a sinner.  

Suddenly a Bible scripture that I learned in Sunday school, as a child, came back to mind and replaced Satan’s words of hopelessness.

(Matthew 6:33), “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

I finally realized that everything in my life usurped God’s authority and position.  He wanted to be placed first on the list of my desires, and not last.  I cannot explain the miracle that took place in my heart; I just give thanks for it. Since my conversion I have learned that there is nothing more important to the heart of the Father than humanity.

When I look around and see nasty people, I proclaim, “There but for the grace of God goes I.”  I am nothing more than a sinner saved by grace.  He changed me into the person I am today, because I came to Him just as I was with all of my hang-ups and questions.  He did the rest.  He set me free.  No more, “Nasty is as nasty does.”

(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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Before The Rocks Cry Out

I am sitting in my truck admiring the beautiful landscape that surrounds the hospital parking lot.  I am waiting for my wife that is having a couple of tests done to make sure that all is well in her body.

The sky is overcast with monsoon clouds, which is out of the norm for this coastal state.  It is quite humid and muggy.  The only things saving me from this swelter are my truck’s air-conditioner and a slight breeze from the West. I would otherwise be inside the waiting room, but I am trying to stay healthy; away from people that are sick with the flu that is going around.

“What do You have for me today?” is the question I am asking God as I look around hoping to see something that spurs me to write.  “What thoughts can You give me to encourage my readers?”

Atop the hospital building is a large, cone-shaped sock that is orange in color with a large hole at one end where it attaches to the support pole and a smaller hole at the other end.  After transporting trauma patients to the facilities it aids helicopter pilots in knowing which direction the wind is blowing as it passes through the sock, before they land on the helipad that was constructed on the roof.

To the right of the building I see “Old Glory” unfurled; proudly showing the red, white, and blue colors of our country—the American flag.  The flag and sock are both pointing toward the East, which prompts my mind to remember the scripture that pertains to the return of Jesus.  It says that He will appear in clouds of glory in the eastern sky.  I believe that this event will be a reality one day soon.

The shrubbery that lines the walkway in front of my truck is groomed to perfection except for two, three inch leaves that were missed by the grounds keeper.  They are firmly attached to the stem and parallel to each other; much like the letter V, only horizontal.

They are flapping back and forth hitting each other in the morning breeze, like clapping your hands to honor someone for their accomplishments.  It is as if they are saying thank you to their creator for the life He has given them.  I consider this a reality check regarding my sensitivity to God and the responsibility I have to praise Him for the new life that He has given me through Jesus Christ, His Son.

Too often, people go through life taking things for granted, not stopping to thank the Lord for the blessings He gives and the needs that He provides for.  Humans are prone to say, “Look what I have done.”  They fail to consider the true source of their provisions and sustenance, which is God Almighty.

Haughtiness and pride are the two words that readily come to mind, which best describe the human race.  I cannot fathom how people can look at themselves in the mirror and think they have accomplished things by their own validity.  God controls life and death, and because of His mercy and long-suffering, breath continues, yet, pride is still the number one failing that brings the collapse of a person’s existence.

(Proverbs 16:18), “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

God deserves everyone’s praise for who He is.  He is the creator of all living things and all that is and ever will be, but people fail or refuse to honor Him.  If we neglect to do so, the Bible declares that the rocks will cry out.  God will receive praise one way or the other.

(Luke 19:40), “…I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”

Without God there would be nothing, whatsoever, so who on earth can consider themselves better than He or exalt themselves above Him?  Is this not what Lucifer tried to do in heaven?  How can anyone take a stand against God and think they are greater than He?  The answer is simple…haughtiness and pride; two attributes of Satan.

Those that stand in arrogance take the Lord’s name in vain as they promote the removal of Bibles and prayer from public schools, and court-martial Christians that are in the military when they share their faith with others.  Shame on our government leaders and lawmakers!  And shame on those Americans that stand by and allow it to happen, rather than voting these reprobates out of office!  But what does this say about the populace of America?  It is reprehensible!

Our nation was founded upon the principles and statutes of God.  What happened to “In God We Trust?”  I see the lack of concern in people and their failure to vote quality, godly people into local and federal government positions.  This lack of responsibility tells me that we are quickly falling from grace, because of a pompous, “We don’t need God” attitude, which is propagated by pride and self-sufficiency.

Wow!  There are those in our nation that would rather suffer God’s wrath than bow their knees in submission to a holy and righteous God!  How foolish!  Who do they think has sustained us and protected our shores from heathen nations that would sooner behead us than not? 

I am fearful that if members of our society continue on their rebellious trek that leads to destruction, and fail to honor God as they ought, this nation will reap what it sows, because of individuals turning their backs on righteousness.

(Galatians 6:7-8), “Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”  Vs.8 “For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” 

God will be faithful to any nation that falls on their knees before Him and repents of sins committed.  God shall restore that which was lost due to sin.  I believe when the United States of America repents, we will clap our hands in thanksgiving to a kind and forgiving God, like the two leaves I referred to earlier.  We need not witness all of nature rising up to shout His praises or see the rocks cry out to honor the true and living God.

(2 Chronicles 7:14), “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

(Joel 2:25), “So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the crawling locust, the consuming locust, and the chewing locust, My great army which I sent among you.” 

We need to remember our heritage from whence comes our salvation.  It is not of our own doing that gives life, it is the price that was paid through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.  Cloaking one self in useless, self-made principles that are anti-Christ, fall short of the mark.  It was Jesus who bought our salvation, because of the blood He willingly shed for you and me.

(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.”

In the present scheme of things, it is an anomaly, which is (the deviation from the normal or common order or form or rule) to hear someone talk about the things of God or giving Him recognition for their successes in life.  It will be nice when people cease to assume the credit for success and desiring the accolades of others. 

The two leaves showed their praise through action, which prompted these thoughts for today.  Let us not grow weary in well doing; forgetting where our allegiance lies.  Let us pray that our nation returns to God before the rocks cry out in our place.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Bated Breath

The above title is not referring to someone with bad breath as some might think, nor is it fresh-smelling breath with the help of a mint.  The phrase bated breath was first used by Shakespeare in “The Merchant of Venice” (1596).  It refers to a state in which someone nearly stops breathing, because of fear, suspense, anxiety, or great anticipation.

With all of the negative things that are going on in the world, I believe that the end of time is quickly drawing to a close.  Humanity, with all of its knowledge, should not be taken by surprise, because all that is happening around us was prophesied in the Bible.  It states that we will know the season of the return of Jesus when we see  certain things coming to pass that were written.

(Mark 13:5-8), “And Jesus, answering them, began to say:  ‘Take heed that no one deceives you.’ ” vs.6 “For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and will deceive many.”  vs.7 “But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled, for such things must happen, but the end is not yet.”  vs.8 “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.  And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles.  These are the beginnings of sorrows.”

(2 Timothy 3:1-5), “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:” vs.2 “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,” vs.3 “unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,” vs.4 “traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,” vs.5 “having a form of godliness but denying its power.  And from such people turn away!”

If we truly knew or realized the nearness of the Lord’s return, we would be waiting with bated breath, but I am afraid that most people are so involved with other things that little thought is given to the all important moment in life, which is called the rapture of the church.  It is a one-time-only event that we definitely do not want to miss.

(Luke 21:28) “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”

There will not be time to say, “God forgive me of my sins!”  The Bible says that He is coming in the twinkling of an eye, which lasts between 300-400 milliseconds.  It would be fair to say it occurs in about a billionth of a second.  The Lord’s return will be so fast that if a non-Christian blinks their eyes they will have missed the return of Jesus.

I am not going to get into the math or physics of the time it takes to blink, nor am I going to attempt to pass it under a modern microscope to scrutinize or determine just how fast the Bible says that the rapture will happen.  I just want to share with you the importance and meaning of what the Bible is telling us—it’s quick and it’s done; ready or not.  We need to be ready to go the moment it takes place, because there will not be a second chance.

(1 Corinthians 15:51-52), “Behold, I tell you a mystery:  We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—” vs.52 “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”

If a non-Christian is talking to a Christian at the very moment Jesus returns, and they blink, the non-Christian will be standing alone as soon as their eyes return to open.  It is just that fast.  I am sure they will be standing there with bated breath for fear of what’s to come now that they have been left behind.  I know I don’t want to be on earth without the Spirit of God present.

I can only imagine what people are thinking in the last days, “How can I stand and proclaim Christ when everything and most everyone around me is anti-Christ?”  The answer is simple, “The Whole Armor of God.”  It will help us to stand against the wiles of Satan; having bated breath regarding the return of Christ.

(Ephesians 6:13-18), “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

No Pain-No Gain

I associate the title of this writing with physical fitness programs that involve bodily exercise and implementing the lifting of weights, which, for all intents and purposes, builds strength and muscle mass.

I have lifted my share of dumbbells and barbells through the years, and did hard, physical labor at work, which kept my body fit and in good shape.  I have learned, by doing, that pain is subsidiary to hard work, but you know what they say, “No pain; no gain.”

According to the Bible, a person should not sit back and expect someone else or the government to take care of them and the needs of their family, especially if they are physically able to work.  God expects the head of the house to step up to the plate and be responsible.  Self-worth is gained when the pain of hard work is put into action, which promotes a wonderful feeling of being self-sufficient.   

I have seen older men lose muscle strength by not maintaining an ongoing workout regiment that may or may not be the direct result of a relaxed state of laziness.  No doubt their physical appearance speaks loudly their lack of attention to health issues when they look at themselves in the mirror. 

The ability to limit the quantity and types of food ingested are contingent upon each individual making up their mind to get into shape and stick with the program that they set up for themselves.  Yes, it is hard to fuse oneself with any type of program that requires discipline or breaking a sweat, but no pain; no gain. 

Speaking from personal experience; one that knows what it takes to stay physically fit; I am finding in my twilight years of life that it is a hit and miss proposition to maintain a scheduled routine of working out.  I would rather be sitting at my computer, writing “Thoughts for Today”, or riding my stationary bike for thirty minutes, than to work out with the weights and suffer muscle pain the following day.  Grant it, writing is good therapy for the mind, but does little for my body.

I need to put into practice what is written in the above title—“No Pain-No Gain.”  I am sure that I will do so after I get through lecturing myself in this writing.  Good health does not involve physical fitness only.  We cannot forget the spiritual health of our inner being.

Spiritual weakness is also derived from a kicked-back, ho-hum type attitude toward the things of God, such as: not reading the Bible and praying everyday, or simply not attending church on a regular basis.  A person can always find excuses not to go. 

The objective of maintaining a good physical persona is most important, but preserving a healthy spirit is imperative, because it determines where our soul will spend eternity.  Much like keeping the body fit, it takes dedication and personal responsibility of doing that which we know to do.  This keeps our relationship with God in harmony.  Remember, no pain; no gain.  Heaven is our gain!

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20), “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?”  vs.20 “For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

I believe that if a person is not moving forward with God, they are standing still or stepping backwards in the opposite direction.  Christians must keep themselves spiritually fit and adept to reduce the risk of becoming spiritually anemic; weak and unable to stand against the devil, which makes it easier to fall away from God.  This lack of forward motion is called ‘backsliding’ in some church circles.

It takes hard work, coupled with the proper intake of spiritual sustenance (nutrition for the soul), to keep the spiritual person inside toned and strong.  A made up mind to serve God is the wherewithal that is needed to rise up out of Satan’s easy chair of laziness to embark on a new commitment of doing something for the Lord.  Enthusiasm will develop as a person allows God to place them where He wants them to be. 

A willingness to be used of God is the key to success in putting off the wishy-washy attitude that accompanies slothfulness.  When we step through the doors that God opens before us, this move of faith nullifies weakness and adds strength and boldness to our spiritual framework. 

God is looking for someone to stand in the gap where He can use them to be a blessing and encouragement to other people.  Yes, blessings also come to those that are doing God’s requests.  As Believers work through the challenges in their own life, they become a shining testimony to others that are watching them; showing, by example, that they are strong in Christ and can accomplish great things for Him. 

It may take a bit of suffering (pain) to accomplish the objective (gain), which the Lord sets before us, but renewing our mind each day in the Word of God and communicating with Him through prayer, are the strengthening factors that build up the inner person—no pain; no gain.

(Philippians 4:13), “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

The Holy Spirit helps us remain astute; having good judgment of how to discern Satan’s modus operandi (mode of operation) when he tries to distract and tempt us with things that are nothing more than a state of momentary pleasure, which can dissuade us from doing what is right in the eyes of God.  The Holy Spirit gives us strength to not fall victim to an apathetic state of mind toward our responsibility and service to the Lord.

(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.”

Sacrifice does not just happen; it takes working at it daily, including God in all that we do.  Communication with Him is the key to success, while maintaining spiritual stability by putting off the old nature of fleshly pleasures that go contrary to the teachings of the Bible.

It is difficult at times to suppress the temptations that the flesh desires, but the Lord is our strength; He helps us through each trial of life.  When we shun the very appearance of evil we remain true to God and victorious, while continuing to walk side by side with Jesus.  We can walk with confidence; knowing that we are sons and daughters of Almighty God.  Whom shall we fear?

(Acts 17:28), “for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ ”

It is a battle to remain faithful to God’s commandments, and we feel bruised and battered at times, but God is greater and more powerful than anything that comes our way—no pain; no gain.

(1 John 4:4), “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

The “No Pain-No Gain” thought does not end here.  It goes even deeper as we work out our own salvation in fear and trembling.  It is somewhat painful to sacrifice certain television programs to attend midweek service, or to be present at choir practice, or go to Sunday evening service. 

It can even be painful to give one’s tithes to the church if the motive for giving is wrong, or if the economy is bad.  Trepidation (anxiety) can raise its ugly head when a Believer feels the urge or prompting to open their pocketbook and give to another family that is in need. 

The question, “Is it God or me?” seems to always pop up as some people try to discern if they are in self-mode or God-mode; perhaps hoping that it is self rather than God, because it is hard to part with greenbacks.

When we yield to “God’s prompting” and give of our time and money, the dividends are insurmountable; because of the satisfaction that giving provides the soul.  As we exercise the soul-man by walking in the Spirit, we cease to sit back and wish that we were doing something for the Lord, because we are now doing the will of our Father in heaven.  “No Pain-No Gain” becomes our anthem of praise each and every day.

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Finding Oneself

I do not profess to be an expert in psychological aspects of another person’s psyche or knowing why they do the things they do.  I can only share my thoughts and beliefs regarding personal experiences and how I found the answer for my needs.

Finding oneself is a challenge; especially in school where being associated with the popular kids of the “in crowd” is quite desirable.  For the most part, young people are critical of themselves, which makes it that much more difficult to find their place in society.  Inferiority complexes make it doubly hard to fit in.

There are those that appear to have one type of personality, but sooner or later when the truth is revealed about them, they are someone altogether different than what others thought them to be.  People, in general, are not trained or privy to the whims, urges, and notions of those that may be troubled within. 

It is the norm of everyday living to rub shoulders with people as we come and go our separate ways, but seldom do we concern ourselves with the needs of others, because of busy schedules and a “care less” attitude that some people have these days.  Little thought is given to what people may be experiencing, until one day they snap and do something terrible; and later we ask, “Why did it happen?” 

For the most part, no-one is looking for the signs that relate to psychologically disturbed individuals that may be starving for affection or merely disgusted with self-esteem.  Perhaps they might be lacking intestinal fortitude to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps to make a difference in this competitive world, or emotions were crushed do to circumstances that their coping mechanism could not deal with.

Whatever the reason, there comes a time when certain individuals throw in the towel of defeat and fly into a fit of rage, because pretending that everything is hunky-dory becomes worrisome, trite, and hypocritical in their eyes.  They say, “Enough is enough!” and then do something stupid and unforgivable.  

What makes a person do horrific things to themselves and others?  Perhaps they have medical conditions that influence their mental state of mind; or their personality traits are hard to control without proper medication.  Maybe they have been suppressed by overbearing parents or uncaring guardians; not having experienced compassion and love or given the chance to make up their own mind regarding everyday experiences.  They may have been shoved from post to pillar in foster care; moved from family to family like an old, rag doll that is handed down; not wanted.

Possibly the individuals that are bent on doing appalling things are those that choose to flush life’s values down the toilet, because their desire to belong outweighs good, sound teaching that they were taught.  In order to become part of the in-crowd or hang with gang-bangers, some feel they must turn their back on society’s regulations and blindly pursue unfamiliar territory where evil loves darkness. 

How they perceive popularity ultimately influences the path they take and the methods considered necessary to obtain this fame, thus, becoming a nonconformist or rebel; going their own way trying to find the satisfaction they lack.  Becoming a recluse and withdrawn from society is the typical progress for some.  They exist in a twisted world of their own making where self-pity rules; having a weird philosophy about life, while saturating their mind with foolish ideas of warped, unstable thinking.

I have seen children turn their back on family members and go their separate ways in search of the missing element within them.  Too often they turn to drugs, alcohol, or sexual promiscuity in an effort to fill the longing of an unquenchable thirst to belong, while sinking deeper and deeper into self-indulgent living and delusional thinking; becoming less and less involved with wholesome influences.

It seems like every time I turn on the evening news, another innocent party has been shot, stabbed, or bludgeoned to death, and the perpetrator has killed him or her self.  Could it be that the person responsible believed they them self to be a victim in this non-caring society; falling between the cracks in search of a caring person to take the time to notice them?  They needed someone to point them toward the one person that gives purpose and hope for living—Jesus Christ, the Son of God.     

These troubled souls found it easier to surrender to defeat rather than face life head-on with God’s help.  The beautiful thing about God is that He will not allow Believers-in-Christ to fall short of the mark of success.  He helps Christians to measure up and attain the expectations they set for themselves, because God wants them to be triumphant in all things.

(Philippians 4:13), “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Our nation is in a sad state of affairs regarding children that are disobedient to parents and authority figures.  Satan is on a rampage to deceive and corrupt as many of our youth as he can, while leading them down the wide road to destruction. 

Not only do adolescent teenagers struggle with finding themselves, some adults face their share of demons as well, which are insurmountable challenges in their everyday battle of trying to find self.  The load becomes unbearable so they resort to crime and violence in an attempt to span the gap between them and contentment, having created this gap by their choices of lifestyle, while rejecting Jehovah God who is the very source of love and compassion that they seek.

They feel unaccepted and overwhelmed by loneliness in their world of dismal living.  The emptiness inside them becomes like an ulcerated cancer that is rotting their insides, because they refuse to turn their life over to Jesus Christ who is the only answer for their dilemma.

Finding oneself is synonymous with finding the Lord.  When a person accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior of their soul, they automatically find self.  Things are put into right prospective and order, because God is omnipotent; having all power to achieve such things.  He brings healing to the soul and peace to a confused mind. 

Emptiness can only be satisfied when this cavity is filled with the Spirit of God.  Nothing else will ever bring lasting contentment even though a person thinks they can attain it themselves.  Try as they might, they cannot satisfy the longing of their heart within their own shortcomings—only Jesus is capable of doing this.  He brings purpose to living and the hope of eternal life in heaven someday.

The most remarkable aspect of asking God to forgive us of our sins is that we become Christians—God’s children.  By this act of faith it enables us to become a part of a special family—the Family of God. 

Talk about belonging to something phenomenal and worth being a part of; those that have been adopted into this family become joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.  This in itself, without a doubt, is the truest sense of belonging that will ever happen to a person. 

To experience the “new-birth” of being “born-again” through Jesus’ death on the cross is unparalleled.  With this newness of life comes such a relaxing peace that it truly boggles my mind how much restful harmony accompanies Christian living.  It is a choice that I have never regretted making.  Having tried most everything that Satan tempted me with in my search for peace, I finally found myself through Jesus.

Surrendering one’s life to God, rather than giving into circumstances, produces peace beyond intellectual understanding.  You may ask, “How can a person sustain peace in adverse situations or when a loved one passes away; and how does this act of faith help me find myself?” 

The answer is simple.  Finding oneself is dependent upon the individual.  God desires that peace prevails in all humanity, but He never usurps the self-will that each person has.  It is up to you and me to choose whether or not we want to belong to the Family of God.  The fruit of the Spirit becomes the hallmark of individuals that put God first in their life.

(Galatians 5:22-23), “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,” vs.23 “gentleness, self-control.  Against such there is no law.”   

God is the solid, unmovable foundation that Christians build upon, and Jesus is the cornerstone of the new life in Him.  The Holy Spirit is the comforter who speaks peace to God’s children when they include the Trinity in everyday tussles and struggles.

No longer do they thrash about like those that are headed down the wide road to destruction where the works of the flesh are manifested and rule a person’s life.  On the contrary, Christians walk in peace, because Jesus is the Prince of Peace.

God’s grace enables born-again Believers to put off the old nature and take on the attributes of Christ, thus, demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit in their life.  We are unable to do this alone, but God is our strength and Heavenly Father.  He helps His children to overcome the temptations that Satan brings, because God has granted peace and mercy to those that believe upon the name of Jesus.

When the Holy Spirit comes in and takes up residence in a soul, that person will be led into all truths, unlike those that are still trying to find themselves in their own firestorm of pursuit; refusing to go God’s way.  At the very moment we invite Jesus into our heart He becomes Savior and Lord.  The old nature is replaced with a new desire to serve God.

(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.”

(Revelation 3:20-21), “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.”  vs.21 “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” 

We have a friend in Jesus.  There is no reason to allow Satan to rule our life and cause us to suffer feelings of rejection, because Jesus gave His life as a ransom for lost souls that are trying to find themselves.  He is the only salvation that we have.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Timing is Everything

On my way home this morning, after running an errand for my wife, I saw something that made me cringe inside.  An elderly lady was walking down the street shoulder on the side where a drainage gully or culvert runs the full length of the street in front of several houses.  There is a pedestrian sidewalk on the other side of the street, but for whatever reason, this person chose not to use it.

Innocently, we sometimes do things without considering the potential consequences of our actions.  This was probably one of those times.  It looked to me as if she was out for an early morning stroll or a time of exercise.  She was walking leisurely; enjoying the day.  The lady was wearing a pink, knitted sweater that was buttoned up in the front, because it was brisk and a bit damp outside.

She was walking with traffic rather than against it as she should have been doing.  She was on the opposite side of the road facing me.  Though a busy, neighborhood street at times, there was very little traffic at this hour.

I wondered why she was not getting her exercise on the sidewalk where it was much safer to walk.  It bothered me.  I guess I should have stopped and suggested that she do so and perhaps assist her in crossing the street, but I didn’t.  Everything was happening quickly.

After passing her, I glanced in my rear-view mirror, because I was still troubled about the situation, when suddenly, out of nowhere, one of the neighbors on the sidewalk side backed out of their driveway quite fast; heading in the opposite direction that I was going.

I’m sure the person driving did not see the lady.  She was probably in their blind spot.  The car came within inches; I mean inches of hitting her.  I watched helplessly as the woman threw up her hands; a natural reflex and defensive move.  By doing so, she was able to push herself away from the moving vehicle.  As she shoved off the trunk lid, it propelled her down into the ditch.

I slowed immediately and saw her stumble and turn a complete circle without falling down.  It was a miracle that the car missed her and that she was able to keep her balance.  My mind was taking in every factor; every detail; even the color of the car and how fast it was moving.  It was like everything switched to slow motion, but everything was happening very quickly.

It was a close call and I am sure the lady was thankful that all she suffered was a terrible fright rather than something worse.  I saw that she was alright after she made her way up and out of the drainage ditch.  She continued on her way; shaking her head. 

I was still trying to grasp what had just happened when I heard myself cry out to God in her behalf, even though it was after the fact.  I believe in the power of prayer and that prayer changes things.  I asked God to dispatch an angel to protect and save this lady from harm.  It was as if I was there at that very moment for a purpose—timing is everything.  She did not have time to pray, but I did after everything was over.

You may be thinking that this is a bit strange with regards to praying about something after it has already happened, but I believe that God saw the incident before it happened and He knew that I would be there to pray the prayer that I prayed, even though it was a belated prayer.  God heard me!  I believe it!

Why can’t God answer prayers in the future for something that has happened in the past?  Is God not God?  Can He not see the future?  Can He not hear and answer prayers whenever and wherever they are prayed?  I say, “Yes!” to all of the above.

Timing is everything…I believe that God sees the beginning to the end and from the end to the beginning.  God is omniscient (all-knowing); omnipotent (all-powerful): and omnipresent (all-pervading)—everywhere at the same time. 

It is not for me to understand or try to figure out the workings of Almighty God.  I trust Him and believe that He has a plan for my life; a purpose.  I believe the Lord can do all things according to His intention and objective.  God has the final say.

I care not what anyone may say about my experience or philosophy concerning subjects such as this.  As long as I believe that God hears my prayers, this is all that matters.  I will continue praying before and after a situation occurs and leave the results to God’s sovereignty.

If I did not believe that God hears my prayers I would never pray again.  BUT I DO BELIEVE!  And yes, I pray and will keep praying.  It is hard to put into words the insight that is burning in my spirit, and as long as God is not offended at me, then I will trust that I am on the right track.

God is not on the same timetable as you or me.  He created time for humanity, yet it is He who understands and controls it; past, present, and future; all at the same time.  He is the Alpha and Omega (the beginning and the end). 

Timing is everything, especially when God is keeping all things in order.  He is “I AM”.  He is God the Magnificent.  Who among us can understand His ways?  He is God Almighty!  His ways are perfect.

(Isaiah 55:9), “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Finding Contentment

I think the two words in the above title may be easier said than done in some cases, because people, in general, are prone to see what they don’t have rather than disciplining their mind to appreciate what they do have.

Materialistic people of this generation are fighting a battle within themselves.  They are trying to find contentment even though there are more tangible things at their disposal than ever before. Greater opportunities are in place to make it easier for them to acquire material entities, which were not available in my dad’s day when making ends meet was more than a challenge, especially during the depression era.

Plastic currency speaks loudly its buying power in today’s hi-Tech marketplace.  I believe the ease of going in debt is at an all-time high, which, in my opinion, is the all-consuming reason why people find it difficult to embrace contentment with the things they have.  Their desire is to have just a little more, but rarely do they need all that is obtained.  

The task of trying to keep up with the additional outflow of money each month to pay for their over-spending looms heavily.  Every area of their coming and going is affected, which becomes a huge mental strain, to say the least.

There is no stress like financial ineptness.  When people attempt to live beyond their means, it ultimately affects their ability to lay-in-store the required funds necessary to sustain future emergencies should they occur.  Money-in-reserve is a luxury they fail to put into practice, because they have not learned that it is a necessity to implement this essential safeguard when budgeting their income. 

The philosophy of those that are never satisfied with the existing statuesque, will, as you might expect, mirror the following thought:  “Live for today and let tomorrow take care of itself.”  Could this type of mindset be partly to blame for lose of personal property such as:  cars, boats, recreational vehicles, and homes?  Perhaps bad choices attribute to the lack of money that is needed to sustain ownership of such things.

The grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence as some folks think.  I am acquainted with individuals that, for the most part, are their own worst enemy when it comes to finding contentment.  They have a yearning spirit for something more, but when they obtain it, happiness quickly fades.  Peace of mind is short-lived; momentary. 

It is less than ideal when people place their value system in things rather than God.  Things in themselves cannot provide lasting contentment.  Only God can fill the void in a person's heart.  

People with this trait have a condition I call, “farsightedness.”  They only see things that are afar off rather than the personal property they possess in their immediate surroundings.  If they would focus upon what they have and not what they don’t have, the splendor of their possessions would not lose the luster.  Lustful glances across the fence can rule a person’s better judgment.  If yielded to, it may not be long before trouble is knocking at the door. 

This desire for bigger and better things consumes thought process, which keeps a person at bay from experiencing joy in the present.  All they can think about is what they do not have.  It seems that finding contentment is not their forte, because of farsightedness, but anyone can change their ways if they so choose.

A newly built home, for example, will fail to satisfy the non-appeasable person.  Boats and exotic cars lose their magnetism after awhile.  Things are unsuccessful in providing lasting joy to those that long for “bigger and better.”   Something new has to be obtained to keep the anticipation and high going.  Their state of mind and outlook on life become out of focus, because their vision is obscured by wants.

When a person is always peering over the fence beyond their own backyard; hoping for something more and wanting what they do not have; how can they find contentment in the now?  Sadly, life becomes skewed and unbalanced.  The search for satisfaction becomes a never ending quest, which causes the unquenchable thirst for fulfillment to continue.

Living an unfulfilled routine is like standing at the edge of a ravine.  I will call it, “desire.”  It separates a person from the other side where “happiness” is perceived to exist.  They risk grievous consequences that the ravine poses on their trek to obtain that which is on the other side.

They assure themselves that finding contentment is imminent, but it is only false hope that spurs them onward.  They are willing to suffer the scrapes and bruises of money difficulties and potential lose of possessions, because desire prevails. 

I can attest that finding contentment takes effort, but it is not impossible to achieve.  All it takes is being thankful to God for the things He has blessed us with and doing our best to put Him first in all areas of life.

I believe when we show appreciation for what we have and trust God to continue supplying our needs, contentment follows.  And when we give away from ourselves, God gives back to us a much greater portion than what was given.  We feel content and satisfied.

(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.”

A person exists in a world of their making.  Bad decisions create ongoing regrets with unfulfilled desires when the newness of attainment has worn off.  This mind-set is usually coupled with dissatisfaction, because they have not learned to be content with what they have.

Finding contentment cannot become a reality as long as people continue to gaze across the fence and drool over things they do not possess, especially when spending money beyond good judgment.  Life becomes a merry-go-round of frustration, which affects all areas of an unfulfilled existence.

(Matthew 6:19-21), “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.”

Peace and contentment follow those that rise early to give God praise for another day.  Finding contentment is pursuant to those that thank God for what they have in Christ Jesus their Savior.

Written by,

Papa Boyd