Do I Stand Alone

In a world that has been corrupted by selfish desires and changing values, the populace will either stand in the power of God or within their own limitations; there is no middle ground.  God would have us hot or cold regarding our relationship with Him; not lukewarm.

The righteousness of God and the filthy rags of one’s own righteousness are the only two choices possible to humanity.  Because of self-will and greed, some people are insistent on promoting themselves within the power they conger up from their narcissistic personality.

These people are not only self-centered and self-absorbed in themselves, they think they have all the answers; trusting in their own intellect and decision-making.  Their inward quest for gratification causes them to become puffed up in self-sufficiency.

When people like this think they stand, the Bible says in (1 Corinthians 10:12), “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.”  When anyone exalts themselves above God and takes a stand against Him, autonomy remains, which is a lonely place to be and inflexible way to live.

When they fall, great is the fall—mind, body, and spirit.  When this happens, and it will, chances are that no one will be around to help restore the broken pieces, because they have successfully, by choice, alienated themselves from others and God do to their negative personality and independent character traits.  Self-reliance is the remnant left over when God is missing from the equation of life.

If a person does not stand for God they will fall for anything, thus, the altered form of the way that God had intended humans to live.  It is sad when people choose to stand alone rather than in the strength of God and the power of His might.  Even though they may be surrounded by a crowd of people, they are standing alone, because of the emptiness within them that only God can fill.

And then there are those that go with the flow, and drift like a ship without a rudder; or they are like a leaf in the breeze that is blown to and fro.  Without the Lord standing by their side they are unstable in all their ways.  Whether amidst crowds of people or in their own world of seclusion, they are prisoners of loneliness. 

The void within them is God-shaped that only He can fill, yet mankind insists on substituting things that cannot bring peace or satisfaction.  Neither material gain nor success in life can calm the longing of one’s heart when they are looking to such entities to bring happiness; loneliness prevails.  Only God can satisfy.

Christians can stand on the promise in God’s Word when it says that He will never forsake them.  God’s faithfulness can be counted on.  It is not dependent upon circumstances, our status in life, or the color of our skin.  God never fails, whereas, people and self-sufficiency always fail.  They are fallible, but God is infallible—incapable of failure or error.

When we ask God to forgive us of our sins and become born-again Believers, Jesus Christ becomes Lord and Savior of our life.  We are saved from sin through His death and resurrection.  Confidence is ours, at the moment of new beginnings, that we have God standing by our side.  We are no longer standing alone without hope.

(Deuteronomy 31:6), “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you.  He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

We need not fear death, because the moment our soul vacates the body we will stand before a holy God, not standing in our own righteous, but the righteousness of Jesus Christ our Savior.  We stand in His perfection.  It is as if Jesus is standing in front of each Believer with God seeing Him, because of the cleansing blood that Jesus shed for all sinners.

(John 14:27), “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

On March 4, 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt said these words:  “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”  But Christians need not fear at all, because “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18).  There is no fear in God’s love.

All filth was washed away in the flow of Jesus’ blood.  We can be changed; made into a new creation that is no longer bound by sin.  Perfection is ours, because Jesus died on the cross for the sins of mankind.  This act of love made it possible for all to come unto repentance and be made pure as the driven snow.

Not only will Jesus stand with Christians in heaven, He stands next to them each and every day on earth, while leading the way into truth.

Do I stand alone—most definitely not!  God is always with me, because of His grace and forgiveness through Christ.  I now stand in peace.  My hope is in Him.

(Jeremiah 29:11), “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

(Philippians 4:7), “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

(Romans 12:2), “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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Past Reflections

When I look back at my poignant past; days when I was not serving God; the reflections that stand out the most pertain to my feeble efforts in trying to find happiness in material possessions.  These belongings of which I surrounded myself failed to bring contentment and peace of mind. 

The life-changing blessings that I was searching for only come from God.  They were unattainable and out of reach in the venues that I frequented.  I wanted these missing pieces in my life, but failed to realize I was looking wide of the mark to achieve them, because I was looking in all the wrong places, rather than God.

Seek as I may, nothing could quench the thirst for peace, because next-day-regrets always followed the preceding night when I thought I was having fun.  I guess the word ‘seasonal’ sums it up—short lived; nothing lasting; a total downer.

When I reflect on my past, it is not that I am looking back and having desire for events and places that enticed me to sin, but I stand in awe as to the marvelous grace that God imparted to me in 1969 when peace like a river flooded my being the night that God cleansed my soul from sin and made me complete in Him.

Before Christ entered my soul, my fragmented life was restless, unfruitful, and dismal do to the intense value that I placed in my assets and other inconsequential bits and pieces of trivial-mindedness that I thought were important. 

When the past navigates its way to my memory, it is not the same reflections that Lot’s wife may have had when she looked back at the city she and her family were leaving.  I believe her desire for the lifestyle in Sodom was a reason for looking back, which caused her death. 

The story pertaining to God raining fire and brimstone down from heaven to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, and the reasons He did so, are found in (Genesis 19:1-29).

Nothing in my past is worth dying for or losing the joy that I now possess through Jesus Christ.  He is my Lord and Savior and I don’t regret a moment giving my heart to Him.

After becoming a Christian, one of my close friends expressed his judgmental opinion to me.  He said, “You’ll be back!  You’ll be doing the things you once did!”  My response was, “I found what I was looking for.  Why would I ever go back?”

The things he was eluding to were momentary pleasures that lacked lasting substance to fulfill and satisfy, whereas, the things of God are lasting and fulfilling.

Sometimes when I pillow my head at night I remember earlier periods in life when it was a struggle to face another day of emptiness and regrets; the same old regrets as the day before.  On occasion, I am aware of tears trickling down each side of my face; tears of joy and wonder, because past reflections remind me of the turmoil that God brought me out of. 

I am thankful and amazed at how God protected me time after time when I trekked through Satan’s thorny fields of wrongdoing and sinful exploits.  These thrill seeking days could have ended in mental and physical ruination had I continued in the death spiral that I was in, but God’s grace prevented this from happening. 

Though I was not serving God, He still loved me anyway, even when I was unlovable.  And because He loved me and didn’t give up on me, I now have hope within.  I can love Him back, because He first loved me and died for me.

(1 John 4:19), “We love Him because He first loved us.”

Jesus loved you and me so much that He paid the ultimate price for our sins; He gave His life on the cross for us.  He suffered the consequences for sin rather than you or me having to do so when our soul leaves the body. 

In that Jesus died and arose from the grave on the third day, we need not fear where our soul will spend eternity as long as we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.  Heaven is the hope of every Christian; not hell.  Only fools spit in the face of God.

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

I am no longer ruled by my past, but the reminders of past reflections aide in prompting me to remember that were it not for the Lord, I would be of all men most miserable.  I often ask myself, “Where would I be today had I persisted in rejecting God’s love through my rebellion against Him?”  The answer is simple—lost.

The hostility that encompassed me was divergent to God and the things of God.  There is no doubt in my mind that had I not made the decision to follow Christ, my state of affairs would be appalling.  

I cannot fathom, for the life of me, why God still loved this badly-behaved soul the times that I spurned His attempts to love me.  But He did!  He was always at the ready to show mercy, which He did!

One day I tried counting the many times that God intervened on my behalf and how things could have gone south, but didn’t.  The number of interventions I remembered boggled my mind.  I believe that had I remained in the devil’s play yard, I would either be dead or in jail, but God’s protection surrounded me, because I had a praying mother and father that cried out to God for their wayward son.

Perhaps you too may be reflecting on past incidents where things could have gone badly, but for some reason didn’t.  I believe that Jesus was praying for you, because His love is never ending; God honored His prayers concerning your situations.  God wants you to experience total freedom; being set free from the bondage of sin.  This happens when you surrender your life to Jesus Christ, God’s Son.

All you need to do is believe that Jesus died for your sins and that God raised Him from the dead.  By yielding to the Holy Spirit that is tugging at your heart, when you accept God’s gift, His Son, you become a child of God.  Today is the day that liberty can be yours when you give your heart to Him.  Don’t wait another minute.

Tell God that you are sorry for your sins and then believe that He forgives you.  You are now Born-again; it is that easy.  You have a new life where old things passed away and all things became new.  It is a new beginning like being born again.  You are now part of the family of God!  Wow!  You did it!  Or I should say, “He did it!”

No longer do bad choices rule your life when you searched here and there for happiness and contentment.  You have found the peace that passes all understanding.  God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit now abide in your soul.  You are a new creation in Christ.

(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.”

Past reflections of days that Satan stole from you will seem trite and insignificant in comparison to the love and peace that you are experiencing in Christ, because you now have purpose and hope within.  God will exceed all of your expectations, because He is your Father in heaven.

(Ephesians 3:20-21), “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,”  vs.21 “to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever.  Amen.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Where's God When I Need Him

How often do we ask ourselves the question that is posed in the title of this writing?  Too often I’m sure.  I believe that this question and others like it are concocted by Satan to bombard our minds with untruths, which create feelings of solitude and loneliness in times of trouble.  He would like us to believe that we are walking alone and that God is too busy with the needs of others to hear our plea for help.

Whatever the reason that prevents individuals from putting their faith wholly in God, I cannot say.  As for me, I have learned insight of God’s love through the years that were valuable lessons in humility and meekness. 

God does not limit nor does He withhold any good thing from those that walk uprightly before Him.  His power and divine ability to sustain a person’s state of mind regarding godliness is without end.  There is no lack of commitment on His part to meet the needs of Believers; we need only to trust Him regarding His follow-through.  But feelings of doubt enter in at times, because our timetable is not God’s timetable. 

For the most part, people want things now, and when it does not avail itself, they begin to doubt whether or not God is listening or if He is even present.  It is at these times that trust must be put into action, or Satan, the father of lies, will attack mercilessly.  It is necessary to remember that God’s timing is not bound to our time table.  We have got to give Him a chance to work out the details on our behalf.  He will do so according to His will and purpose.

(1 John 5:14-15), “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears, us.”  vs.15 “And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him”

Mere feelings usually lack substance when a person puts their trust in them rather than what the Bible tells them about the omnipotence of God.  Feelings have no bearing whatsoever when it comes to God’s will and the salvation of souls.  Being delivered from sin by way of God’s grace is not based on feelings; it is when deliverance from sin is accepted by faith.  When we confess Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised Him from the dead, we are saved.

At the moment of the new-birth-experience when a person receives Jesus Christ as Lord of their life, positive feelings often occur, but are not the criteria of being saved.  The feeling of ecstasy, which is joy and delight, is frequently the result when God’s forgiveness takes place, but it is not essential or compulsory that this happens.  Personalities vary, but God’s promise to deliver individuals from sin never varies, because God is no respecter of person. 

Feelings are not the issue when individuals make up their mind to follow the Lord, but sin forgiven is.  It consists of being set free from the bondage of habits and a life of despondency and hopelessness.  The old nature gives way to an abundant life in Jesus, while old things pass away and all things become new—a new beginning; a new way of life.   

Our relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, is not substantiated via feelings, regardless of whether we sense His presence or not.  The Bible says that He will never leave nor forsake His children.  This is God’s promise to all Born-again Believers.  We are not saved by feelings, but rather by faith in Christ who gave His life on the cross for our sins.

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

Others may leave us to weep alone, but the Holy Spirit comes alongside God’s children when doubts and fears arise.  Jesus said that He would send a comforter to us not only in times of questions and anxious moments, but to walk with us every moment of every day.

When it seems that our Heavenly Father has forsaken us when we need Him the most, of which this impression will come at times, stand fast in the knowledge that God desires greater blessings for His children than does our own earthly father.  Take heart, because the Holy Spirit leads us into all truths when we trust Him to do so.

Each of us is amazingly made by God and possesses powerful minds that He created; minds that are strong and creative, yet at times can misinterpret feelings to mean something totally conflicting of what is factual and precise; things that are contradictory to whom God is and what He desires in our life.  For this reason we must guard our mind against opposing thoughts that are contrary to God’s way of thinking. 

Meditating on the following things will prevent strength from waning and hope from fading.

(Philippians 4:8), “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”

When we meditate upon these things and keep our mind pure and under subjection, the negative thoughts that Satan generates cannot be heard, because we are resisting his unremitting whispers of doom and gloom.  Feelings do not rule one’s thought process; faith in God does.

(Proverbs 23:7), “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”

A person can yield to doubt or choose to stand erect with their head held high, while being clothed in the Whole Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).  It is a choice that every Christian makes, to either resist the temptation to doubt God’s Word or trust the promises therein.  The option they give credence to will ultimately rule their thinking.

A wise person elects to believe, through faith, and walk in God’s might according to Bible truths; having confidence that the Lord is truly concerned about every stage of their Christian development.  An unwise person surrenders their self to the lies of Satan and asks the question, “Where’s God when I need Him?”

To whom we yield our thought process is the one we give power to.  Living within the protection of God’s armor enables Christians to turn the negative questioning of, “Where’s God?” into a positive declaration of, “I trust God!” 

How many times must God prove Himself to those that doubt His presence before trust is established, and they begin to rely upon what the Bible says?  God only knows, but He is long-suffering and patient; wanting only the best for His children.

God cannot lie.  When God says that He will do something, He will always fulfill that promise of what He said He will do.  We need only to believe that He wants to meet our needs according to His riches in glory and then involve Him in all areas of our life.  When we seek His will and leave the situations and circumstances with Him, we are saying by our surrender, “God knows best.”

(Matthew 7:7-11), “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”  vs.8 “For everyone who asks receives; and he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks it will be opened.”  vs.9 “Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?”  vs.10 “Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent?”  vs.11 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Step of Faith

Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is quite difficult at times.  We desire certain things, but lack the confidence to venture out and take them, because of fear.  The unknown factors that lie ahead make it hard to take a step of faith.

I understand the concept of linking the reality of God wanting the very best for His children, and them receiving His best, but why is it difficult at times for me to step out in faith to claim what God has for me?  Could it be the lack of faith in my heart, which stifles my ability to go forward and possess the land, as it were; or am I listening to others tell me that my chances are slim-to-none of achieving such things?

I don’t know what excuses you use when failing to pursue your dreams, but for me, I have fought a negative thought process my whole life, which told me that it was safer and less intrusive to remain in my safe zone rather than to venture out into uncharted waters where I may face deeper challenges in areas that I might potentially fail, while attempting to better myself.

Perhaps the thought, “It is unattainable” is that which holds you back or an inner feeling that your wish-list is for others having more qualifications than yourself.  Whatever reason or excuse that restricts the motivating factor to at least try is the same thought process that ties our hands from reaching out to those around us that may be going down for the third time in their world of troubles—a neighbor, a friend, or co-worker.

Too often we see the obvious signs of dilemma in others, but we choose to take a backseat and spurn their silent cry for help, because we feel inadequate or insufficient—lacking.

Everyone at sometime in their life needs someone to come alongside and be that person they can lean upon in time of trouble.  For a person to turn their back on another individual, when it is obvious that there is a legitimate need in their life, would make me wonder where the love of God is in that person’s soul that is turning away.

(James 4:17), “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”   

Sometimes we need to leave the comfort of our safe zone and step beyond the immediate circle of our personal space and do something for others even if we feel a sense of lacking in ourselves.  Too often, excuses raise their ugly heads, which try to manipulate us from doing what we know is right to do.

The following are examples of these excuses.  They will be offended; Perhaps I’m not reading the signs correctly; Maybe they will take advantage of me; I am not qualified enough; What if God doesn’t do what I tell them He will do for them; and, If God fails to fulfill His promises, then what will they think of me?

Sometimes a task that God wants us to do is hard; beyond our comfort zone, but when we yield to His wooing and take a step of faith, God is always there to fill our mouth with words that are not our own, but His words.

When God prompts us to do something, He has already prepared the other party to receive what we share with them, thus, making it easier than we had anticipated.  Taking a step of faith takes courage, but the more we do it the more God shows His compassion and love through our obedience.

How can people know the love of God unless we share this wonderful love with them?  Reaching out to others in times of trouble or merely taking opportunities to tell them about the grace of God prepares them ahead of time, before the hard times come their way, that God answers prayer.  This knowledge acquaints them with the One who can speak peace into their life when situations befall them.

The more we observe, first hand, God working out circumstances in the lives of those that we speak to about Jesus Christ, faith encompasses us.  We garner assurance, which teaches us to trust Him for the things in our own life.  When we take a step of faith to trust God and He brings to pass what He says He will do, this builds confidence within us that He is willing to fulfill all the promises spoken of in the Bible as we trust Him to do so.

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

Reading God’s Word builds faith, which is our ability to trust the honesty of God.  If God said that He will do something, then rest assured that He will do what He said He will do.

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

We just need to learn how to trust God, which avails itself when we step out in faith, while watching the hand of God move mountains on our behalf and in the lives of others.  God is able to close doors that are not in our best interest to walk through and open doors that no man can close.  We need only to have the confidence—faith—in God as we step through these doors when He says, “It is time.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Highly Favored

When I err along the way, whether doing a project for my wife, kids, and grandchildren, or just working around the house, I am quick to condemn my exploits if they fall short of my expectations, because I am so detail oriented. 

A critical spirit of perfection was inherently passed down to me from my father.  Try as I may to escape this burdensome personality, it raises its ugly head with much provocation when I fail to achieve perfection on any undertaking or when attempting something that I have never tackled before; that which is beyond my expertise.

My obsession for excellence reminds me of people that are addicted to some sort of vice and finding it hard to stop their compulsive behavior.  I find, at time, that it is easy to fall into a rut of finding fault with not only myself, but with everything and everyone around me. 

By giving into this chronic obsession, I someway override the coping mechanism that God instills in all humans to combat this type of character trait.  Those nearest me have to put up with my behavior when things go wrong, which is not pleasing to them or God.

I am a “Jack of all trades and master of none” kind of guy; not afraid to undertake or embark upon things that others shy away from.  I am hard on myself and in some cases should have had experts in the field do what they do best rather than me becoming frustrated with myself when things don’t go as I think they should when tackling the project myself. 

I am hardheaded and obstinate at times, because of my lack of fear to take on things that I should leave alone.  Perhaps the words, “a lack of good judgment” spells my middle name when venturing into the unknowns of mechanics or other trades.  My dad did likewise. 

In my personal realm of self-sufficiency, I seldom suffer the “agony of defeat” saga.  I see my ventures through to completion, but I am convinced that people who know me best call some of my endeavors idiotic; having a taste for self-torment, though not saying it to my face.  My accomplishments are closely associated with trying to save money.  Or is it?  It is probably my personality more than anything else.  

I usually can find a way to accomplish what I started out doing, but at what cost?  After forty-three years of marriage, my wife has learned to just leave me alone on these projects, because of the frustration that fills the air when perfection struggles to make its appearance.

In trying to save labor costs by doing projects myself, I am harder on me than I ought to be.  Those that enjoy the end results of my efforts in doing something nice for them are always appreciative, but my critical eye picks up on my shortcomings rather than seeing the end product for what it is; a jester of love rather than a labor of imperfect abilities.

My dad was a man with a critical spirit and short tempered at times.  Rather than building one’s confidence pertaining to their individual abilities, he always, without fail, pointed out the lack and not the beauty of whatever it was I attempted to do when growing up.

Looking back, I believe that he meant well when pointing out the negatives.  I am sure he had his way of seeing things and how they should be addressed, but I am sorry to say that he lacked the capacity or capability to show love with words.  Perhaps he was raised in this type of environment; I don’t know; he never talked about his past.

The philosophy or mindset that Dad would exude, while raising four children, was his desire for us to not be content with the status quo, but to rise above the temptation to accept things at face value.  He wanted us to strive, beyond excess, for heights of perfection in everything that we set our minds to do; at least in my state of affairs when growing up.  I cannot speak for my siblings. 

There is nothing wrong with this philosophy, but it leaves little room for the acceptance of imperfection in oneself or in others, especially when all that a child hears when growing up is the continuous programming of perfection and the importance that achieving it has in a person’s life. 

When I entered the workforce in my freshman year of high school, I remember Dad saying, “You’ve got to be a little better than the next guy in order to stay.”  He was referring to work ethics and working harder than those around me by giving 10 hours worth of manual labor for 8 hours pay. 

No doubt this was great advice, and I excelled when I put it into practice, but it becomes a fine line between over-zealousness vs. doing the best you can with the hours given, which most bosses expect.

Another bit of advice that Dad drove home to me was that a worker should never rest on a shovel handle with their hands at the top, because it tells the boss at a glance, and even at a distance, that they are slacking off and not working. 

He pointed out many considerations of how to safeguard my employment, but the one thought that stands out most is when he exclaimed, “You never know when a boss is somewhere watching the men work.  If you have to go to the outhouse, act like you know where you’re going and don’t drag your heels.  Get the job done and get back to work!” 

It was all good advice, which helped me to be an excellent employee, but there comes a time in every kid’s life that a complement now and then offsets the things that a parent or guardian consider paramount as they go on and on about issues that the child has heard at nausea. 

Children love to be praised, which I have endeavored to give to my three children.  In my opinion, an “Atta boy” comment should always accompany a “Go-get-um” type attitude of a parent.  This builds self-esteem and places perfection in proper balance with the negative and positive scenarios that come our way.

One-sided teaching of the how-to elements in life, without the introduction of reasonable expectations of oneself, can cause a person to focus on their imperfections rather than their worth.  As a result, I consider my talents and efforts to always fall short of perfection when doing something, no matter how hard I try to do it right.  I lack favor with my own subconscious psyche and am seldom happy with the end results, because it could have been just a little better.

It was not until recently, while reading (Luke 1:26-38) that my attitude began to shift from being hard on myself to accepting me for who I am and the person that God loves.  I realized that the downside of expecting perfection need not govern my level of happiness or my state of mind.

I caught a glimpse of God’s love toward Mary when the angel, Gabriel, came to her and said, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”  (Luke 1:28).  

The message that the angel presented to Mary was regarding the birth of Jesus, the Son of God.  She was chosen to bring forth the Savior of mankind, because she was highly favored of God.

Though I may not have considered myself highly favored regarding my carpenter skills or mechanical abilities, I thought, “If Mary was highly favored; I too must be favored of God, because I'm His child."  The light of understanding illuminated my mind.  I concluded that He accepts me for the person that I am becoming in Christ Jesus. 

You know the saying, “Inch by inch, anything’s a cinch.”  This is a true statement if a person truly wants something bad enough.  I want to change and I refuse to yearn for or crave perfection any longer.  I decline the notion to allow it to rule my life like a person addicted to alcohol, narcotics, or sexual immorality. 

With this being said, each morning when I arise from bed I say these words, “I am highly favored of the Lord.”  These 7 words, God’s perfect number, are revolutionizing my daily thought process and I am slowly putting off my old nature.  I no longer desire perfection through my own strength, because I already have God’s perfection in me—His Son.  I am highly favored, and how I know this, God gave His Son to die on the cross for me.  Wow!  What a revelation!

God is molding me into His likeness, whereas, the emotional side of my intellect is taking on a broader understanding of His grace that set me free from the bondage of sin and self-condemnation.  He loves me deeply and is always with me as He was with Mary. 

I too am highly favored as she; not comparing me to her by any means, but knowing that I am someone special to God is life changing.  With this truth finding its way past my intellect into the innermost part of my being, I realize more each day just how much He cares for me and wants me to be happy with myself. 

I am ceasing to listen to the voices in my head saying, “You don’t measure up.”  I do measure up in the eyes of God, because of who Jesus Christ is.  I am highly favored of Him and have become perfect through His death, resurrection, and obedience to God. 

My righteousness is as filthy rags in the sight of God without Jesus being my Lord and Savior.  God now sees me through the blood that Jesus shed on the cross for my sins—bringing perfection to my life.  In that I am now God’s child, the Bible tells me that I can do all things through Him, while being a recipient of His unconditional love. 

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

Mary was living a godly life; a young woman that strove to live according to the Ten Commandments.  When the angel came to her and delivered the message from God that she was going to give birth to the Son of God, she responded, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord!  Let it be to me according to your word.”  (Luke 1:38)

I know God is with me; helping me to put off the old nature of expecting perfection in myself and others.  Do I get upset when I fail to come up to my expectations?  I am now conscious that change is important and that I can do so through the help of the Holy Spirit. 

I am becoming less and less vindictive and more accepting and content, seeing as it is finally sinking in that I am highly favored of God and that I do not have to expect perfection as long as I follow after His statutes.

As a child learning to walk for the first time, I am taking baby steps to implement a new philosophy of living, a new beginning as it were.  I am determined to not allow my desire for perfection to rule.  I am seeing a change in my mental stability regarding the challenges that I face. 

I came to God with all of my questions and hang-ups, and one by one He is helping me to cope and rise above my fears, anxieties, and frustrations, because I am highly favored of the Lord.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Where's the Light

I’m sure you have stepped into a dimly lit room that was lacking sufficient lighting; dingy and gloomy; seemingly missing that alive-feeling and having to move slowly as if you were walking in a crypt, catacomb, or burial chamber, to put it grimly. 

I don’t think there is any worse feeling than squinting to try and see clearly, because of the absence of light, while holding your hands in front of you to ward off any potential surprise bump to the head.   

Darkness, without light, for long periods of time can bring about sleepiness, low energy levels, depression, and different mood swings.  People living in Alaska or states where rain is more prevalent than the appearance of the sun, and coastal lying areas where fog is common, are at risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

The amount of sunlight a person receives affects some of the body’s hormones and the chemicals in the brain.  One theory is that light stimulates a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which controls mood, sleep, and appetite. 

I built the ranch style house that I now live in about 28 years ago.  It has two hallways; one at each end that connects the master bedroom and the front bedrooms to the rest of the house.

The only problem with both hallways was the absence of natural light, though I provided two ceiling light fixtures in each hall, thinking that they would be adequate.  Something had to be done after years of putting up with the artificial lighting that was not enough to bring total satisfaction to the eye gate.

I could have chosen to exist in the shadows longer than I did, but the small amount of light-output finally got the best of me.  It was dark without turning on the lights, to say the least.  Shadows from low luminous fixtures were not only man-made counterfeits for natural lighting, but my monthly electrical bill revealed the truth of my oversight at time of construction, because the lights were continuously on.

The installation of skylights was the answer.  Brightly polished sheet metal shafts were installed from my dark hallways, through the attic, to outside light of the sun.  Wow!  What a difference!  These solar skylights were the answer to my dilemma.

I now exclaim, “I see the light!” rather than “Where’s the light?” while reaching for the light switch.  It took awhile to break this habit.

For a number of days after installing the skylights, when leaving the brightly, illuminated passageways I would always reach for the light switch to turn off the lights, which were not on. But sooner than later I ceased doing it, while enjoying the brightness of sunlight.

Stumbling through these areas came to an end.  The shadow that I now cast is from the true light that was created by God and not man.  The connecting halls are no longer encumbering. The mistake of omission when framing my house has been resolved. 

Several years ago when my wife’s parents were still living, she and I thought it would be nice to take them to a fancy restaurant for their anniversary, which proved to be a memorable evening.

Coming in from the outside brightness of the setting sun, we could hardly see when following the waiter to our reserved table.  I guess it is called, mood-ambiance; using soft lighting.  I don’t know if they were trying to save on electrical costs or trying to be like the restaurant down the street.  It was dimly lighted, none the less.

The reputation of the establishment was well-known for its good food, especially the steaks they served—Dad, as I called him, loved steak and potatoes.

When our meal came, I prayed over it and blessings upon Mom and Dad.  As we began to eat, suddenly, without provocation Dad said, “Where’s the light?  I can’t see what I’m eating!”

He was a lovely man of God that spoke his mind without fear or favor.  A person never had to guess what he was thinking; he just let you know.  I learned much from his life experiences  of walking with God and how to honor and love the Lord by keeping His commandments.

It was the first and last time that we went to this particular restaurant to eat.  I too thought it was much too dark for customers, especially those that may be visually impaired. 

My wife and I chuckle every time we think about this special time together with her folks.  I wish they were still around to enjoy their company, but we have wonderful memories of them as examples of the Christian life they lived before us.  They are certainly in a better place enjoying their reward for a life of serving God.  The grace of God was imparted to them through Jesus Christ our Savior.

“Amazing Grace” is a popular song that many people know and have perhaps sung.  The last few words of the lyrics are these:  “Was blind, but now I see” which references a life without Christ; having eyes that were blinded by Satan to the truth of God’s Word, but then being transitioned from sinful living into the light of God’s love, which brought sight to blinded eyes.

It gives me pause to think how important light is.  In the beginning God said, “Let there be light.”  He saw that it was good.  God thought it most important to create it.

For many years I stumbled along in darkness rather than walking in light, because of the sinful nature of my heart.  My way was darker than the hallways at my home and the poorly lit restaurant where we ate. 

My soul desired true light that would illuminate my way with clarity of vision, but I was looking in all the wrong places; dimly lighted pigpens and parties not conducive to good eyesight or quality, moral values. 

The ratio of light to darkness in my world of rebellion was quite low, which led me into deeper involvements with sin.  Not being able to see does this, because my head was bent low with eyes looking downward; trying to see where to place my next step.  The shroud that encompassed me was thick and heavy, which prevented me from seeing the EXIT signs that God was trying to show me.

(John 3:19-20), “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”  vs.20 “For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.”

In desperation I finally lifted my head and realized there was something greater in life than the blackness that engulfed me.  When I turned my eyes upon Jesus and looked into His wonderful face, it was like someone blasted my soul with a beam of light from heaven; much brighter than when I installed the solar tubes in the hallways at home.

The wide road to destruction on which I was lost, changed, as did the direction of my being.  I now travel a different road that is never cloaked with the darkness of sin, because Jesus, the Son of God, is the light that provides clear vision.  He is the pure and only light that is needed in this world of depravity.  In Him there is pureness of heart and a hope.

The ebb and flow of non-pureness and the obscurities that sin produced, stopped.  The ups and downs of depression and different mood swings, because of the lack of light in my life, ceased when I stepped into the light of God’s love.  With Jesus in my soul, the question, “Where’s the light?” will never be asked again.

(1 John 1:5-7), “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.”  vs.6 “If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth,”  vs.7 “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Out of the Fog

I accomplished a challenge that I have wanted to conquer for sometime now.  I weaned myself off of caffeinated coffee.  As time progressed, I found that I was drinking more and more each morning when I took my wife out to breakfast now that I am retired.  I was enjoying it less in the afternoon when the coffee high wore off, because my wife doesn’t drink coffee and it is not readily available at home.

I thought it best to stop, because my blood pressure does better without caffeine in my system.  I want to stick around for my wife as long as I can.  I don’t want any problems relating to high blood pressure later with hindsight saying, “If I had only…”

In the process of giving up coffee, I stopped cold turkey.  I know I said weaned, but it was “That’s it; no more.”  As you know, if you have ever tried to stop drinking coffee, the headaches started coming and I became tired and lethargic. 

My mind lost concentration and it seemed as if I were in a fog when trying to converse with others.  There were other withdrawal symptoms, but I was unaware of these symptoms when I went off coffee.  I thought I was having some sort of mental breakdown or psychological problems until I went to the internet and looked up “What are the withdrawal symptoms of quitting caffeine.” 

I was shocked at what withdrawing from caffeine did to the human body.  I certainly felt better after reading all of the articles pertaining to the subject and was amazed to find out that one cup of coffee in the morning can cause a person to become addicted to caffeine. 

Withdrawal affects individuals in different ways and takes longer, in some, for the brain to re-calibrate itself to no caffeine being in the body.  But I was determined to conquer my challenge.

After about a week and a half or two, my mind started to clear; my body felt alive, even more so than when I was drinking coffee.  I just felt better all over more than anywhere else.  It was like coming out of the fog after driving in it for a long time.  My mind was sharp and vision clear.  

I believe that most people that drive vehicles have driven in the fog at some time in their life.  Occasionally, while listening to the evening news, I hear of a multicar pileup that occurred, because of dense fog and the lack of visibility.

Ships reduce their speed at sea and use foghorns to announce their presence in heavy fog conditions, whereas, airports sometimes divert airplanes to other airports if fog is too thick on the runways.

I remember, at night, riding with one of my friends on a levee road near my home when the fog became so dense that the headlights of his truck reflected so badly off the fog that the dividing line between lanes sometimes disappeared completely, especially at this one intersection where the line was missing altogether.

We didn’t know if the road went straight or curved on the other side of the crossroads.  For those long, couple of seconds, panic hit us both, because we certainly didn’t want to drive off into the water that was on one side of the road or hit another car head-on.  Thank God the line reappeared and we continued on our way at a much slower rate of speed than before.

I was relieved, as was he, when we finally drove out of the fog and visibility returned.  It is a terrible thing to be caught in something that you have little control over. 

Had I done my homework prior to our trip by turning on the radio to local weather conditions in this area, I may have opted out of going with my friend, because of the potential dangers that driving in fog present.

Sight is a wonderful thing, but when visibility is hampered or challenged in any way, when seeing becomes blinded by this or that, a person that continues headlong into obscurity of any kind is asking for trouble.  They need to slow down forward motion of whatever they are doing or stop until clear visibility returns—out of the fog, as it were.

Satan tries to blind people to things that can hurt and even maim them both physically and spiritually.  His attempts to keep people in the fog-of-sin take its toll when shipwreck or collision with reality occurs.  In some cases it is too late to turn back the clock and do things differently.  We must then live with the cost of our actions.

Sin has its consequences, which include the heartache of, “If I had only…” hindsight; after-the-fact regrets.  But we can learn by our mistakes and stay out of the fog with the help of God Almighty.  The Holy Bible helps us to stay clear of foggy areas that can bring chaos and misery.

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

The weather report in God’s Word not only provides safe passage and clear direction for our journey through life; it provides light to our path, which reveals the tactics of Satan and how he manipulates the environment around us in an attempt to kill us.

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

When we live in the light of God’s Word, the darkened shroud of unbelief that tries to blind us is kept at bay in its place with the devil.  Doubt, fear, and emotional and spiritual battles fade just as fog becomes less and less when coming out of it.

Worry need not be in our vocabulary, because we will see clearly the road up ahead and the narrow gate that leads to abundant living through Christ Jesus the Lord.  The sinking sand or troubled water at the side of us, though disconcerting at times, need never claim our soul, because straight is the way that leads to heaven.

(Matthew 7:13-14),  “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.”  vs.14 “Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Senseless Drifting

For all intents and purposes, sails and rudders on old schooners, frigates and galleons of their time and sailboats of every type and category, today, do what they were designed to do if implemented properly.  Without sails and rudders doing their job, a vessel will drift aimlessly atop rolling seas and pushed to and fro whichever direction the wind blows. 

Changing tides, which are the periodic rising and falling of large bodies of water caused by the gravitational attraction of the moon, can also influence direction especially if a ship is near estuary entrances, narrow straits and inlets.  The speed of tidal currents in these areas can reach up to several kilometers per hour (1 kph = 0.62137 mph).   

In the open ocean, tidal currents are relatively weak, but can be disconcerting if a rudder or the sails are inoperable or if the helm and rigging are unmanned for whatever reason.  It is a terrible thing to be caught in open waters without the ability to maneuver the bow of the vessel (the most forward part of the hull) into the waves.

The inability for humanity to control their direction in life, without Christ, is like being on a disabled ship that is subject to its surrounds, or sitting on a raft in the middle of the ocean; hoping that someone will find them before the inevitable happens.

It’s not so much being adrift on a raft that brings discomfort and pain; it is the lack of shelter from the hot, scorching sun, and the harshness of the elements around them.  The lack of food and pure, drinking water ultimately claim a person’s life. 

I personally know people that are adrift on rafts of their own making, in surroundings of their own choosing, with little hope for survival.  Their senseless drifting could stop in a moment of time if they would assess the dilemma that they are in and realize that there is no set direction for their life.  But their unwillingness to allow Jesus, their only hope, to save them from the quandary that surrounds them has set their drifting on a perilous journey. 

Misdirected people have allowed themselves to remain lost, by choice, because of their haughty or self-sufficient attitude… “If I can’t do it no-body can.”  So they exist in peril, because of a prideful spirit; refusing the outstretched hand of the Lord, while saying by their actions, “I’d rather do it myself.”

They need only to consider the wonderful things that God provides; the necessities of life.  His well balanced diet-of-truth is in the Holy Bible.  It is sad when people refuse to partake of its sustenance in their weakened state, whereas, if they would eat the meat of God’s Word and drink from the springs of living water that flow from His throne, they would live.  The Bible provides good, spiritual health and direction for life’s journey if we live according to its statutes.  Senseless drifting can cease once and for all. 

Abiding in the protection of God’s Word keeps us from wandering, because living in truth satisfies the deep longing of all those that are adrift without hope.  Any person that remains adrift in uncharted waters is there because they have chosen to do so.  God desires so much more for them than what rafting around in sin can provide.  Sin gives nothing more than an unquenchable thirst for more, whereas, God satisfies forevermore. 

Jesus would become the Savior of their directionless soul if only they would reach up and take His hand.  This is done by saying a simple prayer.  “God forgive me of my sins.  I want Jesus to be Lord and Savior of my soul.”  Jesus is the hope for those that are lost; without direction.

The Bible says that today is the day of salvation.  A person should not wait until tomorrow what they should do today.  No-one has an assurance that they will even see tomorrow.  We must be ready to meet God at any split second, should He call our name.

Too often, self-reliant, self-contained individuals persist in their everyday struggles, because of procrastination.  “I’ll give my heart to Jesus on my deathbed” is what they imagine.   They are impetuous people in other things relating to life, yet sin involvement lacks thought or deliberation as to what they are jumping into when they partake of it; not considering the negative cost of their impetuous nature. 

While drifting in the ocean of decisions, they fail to make the most important choice that will bring them out of desperation and give them a hope.  Some people do, many people do not, which breaks the Lord’s heart.  God gave His Son to die on a cross for those that are drifting in sin so that they can experience hope.

(Romans 3:23), “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God;”

The sad reality of rejecting Jesus as Savior is wrong choices made.  Some people resist change and refuse interference in their comings and goings, because of a haughty spirit or being self-centered.  This nature keeps them adrift in shame and degradation, because they are too proud to ask for help.

The Bible says that pride comes before a fall.  Any person refusing to allow Jesus to man the helm of their sinking ship and to raise the sails of hope in their tossing, misdirected vessel is in trouble.  They will suffer the consequences of bad choices they have made.

To persist in this mindset brings death of the soul after a lifelong struggle to survive.  But it does not have to end this way!  God provided a way out of the tossing billows!  His name is Jesus.  He is the only way that humanity can survive the storms of life that Satan blows their way.  Jesus, alone, is the solid rock that we can anchor to and live.

God gives each of us the ability to choose life or death.  He prefers that we choose life rather than Satan, but the choice is ours to make.  God does not infringe upon any person His will, but allows us to have self-will.  In fact, He is beckoning to those that are in need of a Savior, saying...

(Matthew 11:28-30), “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”  vs.29 “”Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  vs.30 “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

My sails are set and my way is made clear.  Jesus sits at the helm, because He knows the way home.  Senseless drifting is no more.  No longer am I without direction.  God forgave me of my sins and became captain of my ship.  Life is good!

Written by,

Papa Boyd

From Crooked Street to Glory Avenue

When I was a young lad in my early, adolescent years, I remember sitting on an old, wooden pew listening to my dad play his Martin guitar as he sang to a small congregation of people at the church we attended.

One of the songs he loved to sing came to mind the other day of which I was surprised that I remembered the words.  The lyrics found their way to my tongue and I began to sing the chorus.

I cannot recall the title or verses, but the chorus goes something like this.  “I’m glad I moved from Crooked Street to Glory Avenue.  No mortgage on our property, the taxes never come due.  The sun is always shining bright and Mondays never blue.  I’m glad I moved from Crooked Street to Glory Avenue.”

Actually, these few words in the chorus somewhat encapsulate what the Born-again experience holds in store for those that choose to move from Crooked Street where Satan is landlord, to live on Glory Avenue where Jesus abides.

When I lived on Crooked Street, my futile efforts to find happiness in things of the world was relentless and unproductive.  Successes in life were limited as were the ventures I pursued in trying to unearth contentment.  Obtaining peace of mind was fruitless.  Blinded, haphazard experimentation with the corruptness around me proved ineffective in my quest for tranquility; a waste of expelled energy. 

At the end of each day my winding journey availed little with respect to finding self-worth and self-respect.  Quality relationships and feeling a sense of true satisfaction within me could not be found.  Things that occupied my thinking failed to give purpose and fulfillment. 

Old habits kept surfacing as did the nature of my restless personality, which was drowning in a cesspool of covetous living.  As an adult, my unsavory past was one of missed connections and cancelled flights, as it were; confusion that was coupled with heartache; nothing to count on, because I was repeating the same mistakes over and over again, which brought frustration without hope.

Everything I tried failed to translate into true gratification.  It was at this point in my confusion that it seemed I could hear someone knocking at my hearts door.  It was as if I heard the knocker calling my name and saying, “I see you’re in an awful fix, I’ll tell you what to do; I’d move clear off of Crooked Street to Glory Avenue.”

Out of frustration and a sense of “I’ll try anything,” I bowed my knee; repented of my sins and found what I was searching for.  Peace availed itself.  The Holy Spirit immediately relocated me to the block where the rest of my newly acquired family lived—Glory Avenue.

In the short amount of time that it took to pray these words, “Forgive me of my sins” is how long it took God to move me to new surroundings and a new beginning in Christ Jesus.  I became part of the family of God; washed in the fountain of His holiness, and cleansed from sin through the blood that Jesus shed on the cross.

(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.”

I’m glad I moved from Crooked Street to Glory Avenue.  I now have a hope and a future.  The peace that was unattainable on Crooked Street is ever present on Glory Avenue.  I have no regrets, because I found Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

(Jeremiah 29:11), “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

What Worth Am I

In my writings I endeavor to share pertinent, yet applicable opinions and personal feelings on matters that have influenced my life in both negative and positive ways; words that are chosen to help readers focus upon inner struggles and how they can begin to resolve troubling issues and concerns. 

Suppressing inner emotions can wreak havoc on one’s ability to cope.  These areas are sometimes kept at arm length, which can be reflective of a closed mindset, because healthy relationships and experiencing peace of mind may seem impossible to attain.  

Some things are very hard to face head on, but not impossible to resolve.  It is natural to let sleeping dogs lie in one’s subconscious rather than making up the mind to defeat painful problems that always come to the forefront; ahead of happiness.  The answer is to arise and toss them once and for all into “God’s sea of forgetfulness.”

It is that easy, because each of us is worth everything to God.  The Lord wants to embrace us in His arms of love to protect and care for us in greater proportion than does an earthly father when he strives to give good things to his children.

When we hand our problems over to God and say, “Yes!” to His Son Jesus, troubles seem to melt away in the flow of His bountiful blessings.  When we ask God to forgive our sins, we become born-again Believers; children of God Almighty.

You may ask, “What worth am I that the Creator of earth and Designer of the universe would care about me?”  God cared so much that even the thought of you or I not having hope in this life caused Him to look at His relationship with humanity and provide a way back to Him through His Son.  This is called, grace.  Since Jesus’ death, we are living in the dispensation of grace rather than under the Law of Moses.

Though Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, and there was a separation between God and man, God chose to manifest Himself in the form of a baby, named Jesus.  God longed to be reunited with mankind once again and made this possible through His Son Jesus.  Is the above sentence a bit confusing?  Let me explain.

God took upon Himself human flesh and became God-man.  Jesus was God in flesh and dwelt among the people of that day.  Jesus (God), died on the cross to pay the price for sin that whoever believed in Him would not perish, but have everlasting life in heaven.  This is the hope of Christians; those that have given their life to Jesus and turned from wrongdoing.

Because of Jesus we can rise above inner and exterior problems, and lean upon the everlasting arms of the Holy Spirit and know that He is working out all things on our behalf.  God took my sins and threw them into the sea of His forgetfulness, never to remember them against me again.  This is indeed Freedom!

(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.”

My desire is to bring about positive decisions with positive results in people.  I believe my words and Bible scriptures can influence, in a good way, the direction that individuals need to go in order to find true fulfillment and lasting happiness when all else has failed.

I was once lost; a sinner, but now am found.  Jesus was who I was searching for all the time.  I want to encourage you to experience life at its fullest; a life more abundant through Jesus Christ the Lord.  He made all the difference in my life and I know He will do the same for you if you just give Him a chance.

When writing, my words are never intended to demean or put down any person that may not see things from my prospective, rather that I may share ideas and food for thought, which I feel are valid for today’s challenges in a high stress environment that we face daily.

I believe that words fitly spoken in love can shore up a crumbling existence in those that need support and understanding.  I have experienced the sad side of life where living was hard and my future seemed bleak, because of choices made.  I speak from experience of one that traded nothingness for everything, through Jesus our Savior.

My non-Christian experience was one of heartache; lacking peace.  It was a world of indulgent, self-abusing habits that ruled my life.  Sinning produced underlying insecurities that momentary pleasures left behind. 

Though in the eyes of others it appeared that I was successful, the true reality of my undisciplined lifestyle was that of loneliness and fear, especially when I pillowed my head at night.  I was running from God and did not want His involvement. 

Until such time that I surrendered my will to God, everyday seemed to be a struggle both mentally and physically.  The spiritual battle inside me was ongoing, while my physical makeup struggled to stay healthy in the arena of bad influences that I chose to associate with. 

My mental state was adrift in a cesspool of sinful notions and scheming.  My soul needed stability, which I tried to achieve in my own ability and strength; to no avail.  The unsettling clamor of voices telling me to do this and that was taking its toll. 

I was in a state of confusion, not knowing what I might do next.  I was being manipulated by Satan who wanted to destroy me in every way.  In my bland state of mind I asked myself, “What worth am I?”  At that moment I was reminded of a Bible verse that I learned in Sunday school as a child.

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

I was seeking solace and security in all the wrong places.  It was not until I asked God to forgive me of my sins and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness that change took place.  I felt the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.  The heavy press of worldly influences (sin) was lifted off my shoulders. 

I could breathe again like when I was a kid in church!  This burden of sin was acknowledged and surrendered by me, and forgiven by God.  Jesus Christ set me free that day—truly free.

For this reason and because of the born-again experience that happened, I am able to share, first hand, the miraculous, saving power of God, through Jesus His Son who is attainable to all humanity.  Those looking for peace will find it when they turn to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

I do not understand how the miracle of forgiveness occurred, but I guess I don’t have to know.  All I can say, “It worked for me!”  I reached out to God in simple faith and experienced life; a new beginning.  The old nature passed away and I became a new creation in the short time that it took me to say, “Forgive me of my sins.”  What the Lord did for me He will do for you.  God is no respecter of person.

The haunting question, “What worth am I?” no longer bombards my intellect now that I am a child of God.  I am trying to grasp the depth and breadth of God’s compassion as I consider how much Jesus loved me when I was unlovable, yet He counted me worthy to join the family of God, while dying on the cross for my sins.  God’s Truth—Jesus—set me free.

May these words and God’s Words enrich your soul and help guide you to the One who loves you with a never ending love.  God sees the potential in every individual and wants to help us achieve our dreams and desires.  His love is pure; without guile.  The Lord extends His mercy and grace to you, because His love endures forever.

Written by,

Papa Boyd