Never Give Up

It stands to reason, figuratively speaking, that when Christians slip and sin, some feel compelled to crawl into a hole-of-defeat and say to themselves, “I can’t do it.”  In their thinking they believe that God must be disappointed with them for their disobedience and will cast them aside, because of it.

Rather than asking forgiveness immediately, some individuals wallow in self-condemnation, thinking, “What’s the use.” They hide from God just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden after they disobeyed God’s command to not eat of the fruit produced by the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.

The word “reason” in the above, first sentence is subjective.  When a person tries to reason why they sin or make excuses for sinning as Adam did in Genesis 3:12, and Eve in Genesis 3:13, it is possible for them to fall deeper into a state of complacency and compromise. 

Over thinking the sin and trying to hide from God, while listening to the wrong voice lie to them, allows deception to take root from Satan who is the father of lies.  They then suppose their sin has separated them even farther from God’s presence.

Some people envision God to be an ogre who is ready to disown them at the drop of a hat, or that He is waiting to pronounce judgment, because of their failure to obey His commandments—a merciless God of rules and regulations.  I believe this to be far from the truth.  They have not yet grasped the true meaning of grace and mercy, and that God forgives sin when we ask Him to do so. 

I am not sure why this concept of God exists, though I had this mindset as a sinner going my own willful way.  Now, as a Christian, I am learning each day just how much God really loves and cares about me, personally.  I wasted many years being too proud and fearful to share my problems with God lest He require or demand something from me.  I kept Him at arm length.

I don’t regret a mile I’ve traveled with the Lord since my conversion.  He has given me peace and a hope that I never had before.  God keeps me safe and secure from all alarm much like a mother hen protects her little chicks under her wing.

God is not a vindictive, unreasonable Father; on the contrary, God is love in every sense of the word.  As a foolish, young man I didn’t understand nor did I grasp the depth of His love until I became a Believer.  Such joy and happiness He brought!

God does not want any of His creation to struggle and miss out on the abundant life that He provided through His Son Jesus.  The fact of the matter is this:  Jesus willingly gave his life on the cross for our sins so that we could be free from the condemnation of sin and have the hope of eternal life with Him in heaven.

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

In that God gave His only begotten Son to die for you and me to save us from the bondage of sin, why then would He repel or discard us like unwanted refuse if we fall into temptation?  When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of our life, we become sons and daughters of Almighty God and joint-heirs with Jesus.  Heaven and all it has to offer is ours.  We need not fear separation from God as children of God.

(2 Timothy 1:12), “… for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.”

(Romans 8:38-39), “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,” Vs.39 “nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

If you have children, when was the last time you completely disowned and turned your back on your child when he or she failed to measure up to your expectations?  I think this would be a very unusual situation, because a parent’s love runs deep.  But God’s love runs even deeper; an infinite, immeasurable amount of love that supersedes the love we have for our own children.

(Mathew 7:9-11), “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!”

So “reason” does not enter into the picture when referring to whether or not God walks away from us when we fall on our face, because we sinned.  God is there to pick us up, dust us off, and exclaim, “You will do better next time!”

The Holy Spirit teaches us to lean on Him for strength and not give up.  We will learn by our mistakes not to do them anymore.  And if we fail again in the same area as before, God imparts mercy, while grace becomes reality rather than defeat and separation claiming another soul.  God’s great love enables us to succeed and rise above the temptation to sin.

My grandson’s little-league coach has a wonderful way of interacting with each player on the team.  He reminds me of how God encourages me to keep on keeping on when I have fallen short of the mark and want to hide from Him and give up.

When one of the boys strikes out and feels deflated; telling himself, “I can’t do it.” the coach is always there with words of encouragement to lift his spirits rather than words of harshness.  When a fielding error takes place and a player throws the ball to the wrong base, or fumbles a grounder that is hit to him, the coach, without fail, shouts, “You will do better next time. Trust me!”

God does exactly that.  He says, “Trust me.”  He knows we will improve, because He teaches us how to win and not throw in the towel of defeat.  God does not give up on us; let us not give up on ourselves.  We have everything to gain when we trust Him.  Stumbling persists when we lean unto our own understanding rather than trusting God to direct our path. 

Remember, a winner never quits and a quitter never wins.  God helps us to overcome our inadequacies and our lack of self-confidence when He speaks to us through His Word—(Philippians 4:13), “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Though a few people in the stands sometimes express their displeasure when errors happen, the coaches’ voice becomes louder than the few so that the only voice a player hears is his…always speaking positive, heartening words that help negate insecurities, which tear down self confidence.  We must listen for God’s voice; not the thundering voices of insensitive people.  

I've watched the coach call for timeout and walk out to the pitcher’s mound when the pitcher was struggling.  Softly, in a calm voice, he talked to the player and helped him gather himself as he placed his hands on each side of the boy’s face saying, “You can do it.”  The coach then walked back to the dugout to show the boy that he had confidence in him no matter what.

God does this.  He encourages our heart when we focus on Him rather than the pressures.  The Lord helps us not to allow our weaknesses or the circumstances that life brings our way to defeat us.  He aids us in taking a deep breath to regain our composure to keep pitching for Jesus.  God has confidence that we will succeed.

The Holy Spirit, our coach, will always be there to assist through the difficult times and help us keep the faith.

(2 Timothy 4:7-8), “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”  Vs.8 “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

I Feel Alone

Have you ever thought, verbalized, or rehearsed the words in the title of this writing in your mind?  There is probably no feeling more personal, yet alarming to our existence than to sense the emotion of loneliness. 

Whether it was do to a divorce or separation from one’s spouse, the death of a friend or loved one, being incarcerated or in solitary confinement, or idiosyncrasies of personality inhibitions that make one self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way around people, the underlying result is the same.  Solitude creeps in like an unwanted cold, bringing with it words like, “I feel lonely.”

Loneliness saddens the heart, especially when friends are far and in-between or there is no one around to feel comfortable sharing experiences with.  I am sure you have heard the phrase, “Alone-in-a-crowd.”  Though a person may be thronged on all sides at a gathering of people, for the most part, those around them are aware of personal miseries and shortcomings in their own world of woes; not theirs. 

No one seems to care anymore about the other person and what they are facing or going through, because they themselves have not found the true meaning of hope.  They are overwhelmed by their own problems rather than finding the problem solver to help them.  They are void of peace, which is essential in helping them face another day with positive thoughts rather than, “Oh me.” 

The human mind needs something or someone they can count on, someone that understands them and is willing to stick by them through thick and thin.  Perhaps the person feeling lonely may have issues with people, because they were left to weep alone, thus, causing them to isolate themselves from others for fear of being hurt again.

Protective walls are easily built, because of a preservation instinct, but they are harder to tear down even though mental and physical health is at stake.  If walls remain, this can affect a person’s spiritual health in harmful ways, whereas, the soul suffers. 

No one need dread another day of confusion and frustration when relief is just three words away.  They are not “I feel alone” which are words that amplify the problems; they are “God forgive me” which transcends the mind and soul to unexpected heights in Christ.  They found the answer they longed for—Jesus.

When a person asks God to forgive them of their sins and consciously makes Him the head of their household, what is gained is more than a friend or someone they can count on, Jesus, God’s Son, also becomes their Savior.  At that very instant, the Holy Spirit becomes their comforter.  Why?  They are a child of God Almighty who is now their Father.  He will never leave nor forsake them.

(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.”

The Lord is the answer for everyday victories and the peace of mind that we so desperately seek.  Jesus is the Prince of Peace.  No longer will the Believer feel alone or dread what another day may bring.  Peace is theirs, because they have a new sense of belonging and a hope not experienced here-to-fore.  “I feel alone” is replaced with, “What a friend I have in Jesus.”

(Isaiah 9:6), “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Stewardship

The following thoughts are threefold in nature, of which, come under the heading—Stewardship: self, others, and God. 

In that God is the Creator of all things; He has absolute ownership and rights over everything, yet He has entrusted humanity with the responsibility of managing what belongs to Him.

Stewardship is not a scheme that God established to take from us; on the contrary, it is the act of bestowing His richest gifts upon His people.  Stewardship is more than just the management of time, possessions, surroundings, and our health; stewardship is one's obedient witness to God’s sovereignty.  It’s what motivates the follower of Christ to move into action, doing deeds that manifest their belief in Him.

Preparedness and follow-through are two key components that are necessary when individuals attempt to achieve something worth while.  It is hard to distinguish one from the other, because they work so well together.  When people put into practice the coupling of these two elements, things happen to help promote success.  They are two basic fundamentals of stewardship. 

There can be no destination without a beginning.  The journey has to start somewhere in order to realize the full benefit of achieving one’s goal.  A beginning to a happy ending is taking the first step and sticking with it; otherwise the destination envisioned will never be accomplished or fulfilled. 

It takes a made up mind and help from God to keep-on-keeping-on.  For example: losing weight begins with a plan and then sticking to the plan.  Weight reduction becomes reality if the effort to lose has a beginning and follow-through, therefore, the goal is realized in do time.  A fit body is impossible to achieve without proper exercise and eating nutritious food.  It just doesn’t happen. 

Speaking of exercise, there is no better exercise for the betterment of neighbors, a community, or nations around the world than to reach down a helping hand to minister to struggling people.  This happens when individuals involve themselves in community outreach programs and charitable organizations. 

Giving of time and money to achieve certain objectives is what’s needed.  At my church it is called, “missions giving.”

Another case in point deals with religious convictions without love being taught or implemented.  Love is the motivating factor that spurs a person to action.  This, coupled with true concern for one’s own soul and the welfare of others, is stewardship.  If love doesn’t exist, it is a sham.  Efforts put forth, if any, are in vane and unproductive; lacking effectiveness.

The reality of stewardship in helping others is twofold—seeing the need and then acting upon what is seen.  If goodwill-giving sticks to a person’s fingers and they hold back because of greed or excessive gluttony for personal gain, there is no way they can realize the joy that giving brings.  Materialism limits the flow of God’s blessings to the receiver and giver.  

I believe that selfishness and self-centeredness play a disgusting part in stifling the full impact of benefits that could otherwise be realized.  The negative influence that self-interest brings affects the level of involvement that people exert in helping others.  It limits them with respect to what God expects.

(1 John 3:17-18), “But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?”  vs.18 “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”

When a person focuses beyond their own four walls of self-indulgence or their immediate circle of friends to view the difficulties and spiritual poverty around them, it is shocking how many lives can be touched in the wake of personal giving when something is done to help the plight of others. 

“There but for the grace of God, go I” is a phrase I think about from time to time when I see someone suffering misfortune.  Were it not for God’s mercy and grace, a similar fate could have befallen me.

(1Corinthians 15:10), “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain…”

There is a fine line separating wealth and poverty.  Of course there are varying degrees of affluence and deficiency on whichever side we find ourselves.  The pendulum that suspends from the horn-of-plenty can quickly swing from one side to the other or midpoint without warning, depending upon circumstances of life.  Environment, culture, and a host of other underlying factors determine what side of the line a person inhabits.

Those that “have” can lose their possessions and/or money through bad investments, or they may lose employment, whereas, their status, position, and health can change in a heartbeat, which can hurl them into the category of “have not’s.”  This can be the shocking reality of living life.  For the most part it happens without notice.

I choose to believe and am persuaded that God undergirds those that live according to His Word.  But He expects Believers to exercise caution and good sense regarding frugal spending habits.  This process begins with paying tithes on the first part of a paycheck; not at the end, lest there not be any money left to give tithes and offerings that God expects of us.

(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.”

(Psalm 37:25-26), “I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.”  vs.26 “He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed.” 

If it’s all the same to you, I am going to continue doing what the Bible tells me to do.  Since becoming a Christian, God has proven over and over that I can depend on Him, because I am abiding in the truth of His Word. 

Yes, I give a tenth of my earnings to God.  He has shown me that I can do more with 90% than the full 100%.  He pours out blessings I cannot contain in a multitude of ways, because His Word is true.

If a person is not careful, a false sense of security can raise its ugly head to rule one’s better judgment, because of the good credit line they’ve established.  Taking on debt and buying things that should not be bought is typical in this “plastic money” society. 

It is more sensible to buy the things we want, with cash in hand, rather than indebtedness sinking our ship.  By waiting, we might decide that we really don’t need the item after all when it comes to shelling out that hard-earned cash. 

It is easy to swipe credit cards in the present, but when the bank statements come at the end of the month, it’s another story.  A reckoning day always accompanies uncontrolled spending, but rarely at an opportune time. 

Trivial, insignificant things bought with plastic money add up quickly when excessive spending rules a person.  It can easily break the back of anyone, figuratively speaking, that is not able to pay the piper at the end of monthly requests from banks to remit payment.

A good time to buy is when finances line up with the decision to purchase something.  People must learn how to put things on hold until such time that cash money is available to lesson the impact and burden that indebtedness brings.  There is no pressure like financial woes.  It affects every area of a person’s way of life.

When living from credit card payment to credit card payment, the reality of indebtedness is quickly realized do to overspending.  The shocking reality slaps them in the face and they question, “Where’s the money to pay these debts?” or “Why is the amount so much?” or “Could it be because I don’t pay tithes?” if in fact they don’t.

I believe the following Bible verse is very meaningful and truth at its highest.

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

Before a person buys what they think they need, or should I say want, God must receive His 10% first.  When Christians do as the Bible explains in (Malachi 3:11), not only do miraculous deals come their way, things just go right.  Financial pressures cease to buffet their existence each month, and life becomes in tune with God’s plan for the abundant life that He wants them to enjoy.

When a person begins doing what they know is right through giving away from self to the less fortunate, they then see how their time and money provide wonderful dividends.  This beginning and follow-through increases their realization of the importance of choosing to be part of the bigger picture (the benefits of giving). 

It is quite rewarding to see these results and experience the destination (or goal) that has been achieved.  Try it if you haven’t already; you will see God do amazing things that He said He would do when we obey Him.

To summarize my thoughts: a plan must be implemented and set into play with discipline being adhered to.  These steps of faith generate change in spending habits, and how we view the needs of others, and how to find security in God’s Word regarding stewardship and tithing.    

The journey must begin now, not tomorrow or the next day.  It starts with the first step in the right direction.  God will direct your path and help you to achieve success and happiness, because of stewardship.

(Psalm 37:23-24), “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.”  vs.24 “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

A Willing Heart

Clarification may be in order to explain the context by which I use the word “heart.”  For all intents and purposes of this writing, I am not referring to the organ that circulates blood through the body.  Emphasis will be the heart that is associated with the center of a person’s thoughts and emotions, especially love or compassion. 

A willing heart in the following thoughts refers to one’s mood or feeling, courage or enthusiasm; the attitude a person has inside them regarding the commandment that Jesus gave in (Mark 16:15).  Perhaps He was, in part, referring to the world of our immediate neighborhood or witnessing to fellow workers that we rub shoulders with each day.

(Mark 16:15), “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” 

God uses people like you and me to do His bidding; ordinary people that love Him.  How else will unfulfilled individuals learn about God’s love and the peace that they can experience through His Son, Jesus?  The Bible calls it abundant living.

There are people everywhere that attend churches, yet, have not awakened to the all-important revelation that it takes “doers” to reach souls for Christ. There is more to it than just taking in all the time.  We must give away from ourselves.  I don’t think spending an hour in church on weekends is what the Bible means when it says:

(Hebrews 10:24-25), “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,” vs.25 “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Being like a sponge and soaking in the messages of a preacher’s sermons is good, but it does little to help others if the one in church fails to squeeze out some of these nuggets on the poor in spirit the rest of the week.  How can those around us come to the knowledge of God’s love without the testimony of a willing heart regarding His compassion and love?  It takes someone telling them the good news that Jesus Christ died for their sins.

There is always a need for workers in every church; to teach a Sunday school class, sing in the choir, do outreach ministries, or give a tenth of their income (tithe) so that the lights, heating, and air-conditioning can remain on.  It takes you and me having a willing heart to get involved and get connected.

God is seeking for willing hearts.  They don’t have to be scholars of the Bible, intellectual Bible thumpers, or full of charisma, though God certainly uses these individuals to reach people.  God wants someone to stand in the gap and make up the wall where they are needed to do ministry for Him.

We do not have to go to seminar school and become a minister of the Gospel to be qualified to work in the harvest field of lost souls.  This is a special calling from God.  We need only a willingness to be used of God and then do what He asks us to do. 

People that are timid and soft-spoken can become powerhouses for God when He empowers them with boldness and passion, which may not otherwise be their character or personality. The Holy Spirit makes the difference in a person's life.  

God prepares those He calls.  He does not ask us to do something that He is not equipped and ready to provide—the wherewithal to get the job done.  The only thing God needs is a willing heart (a heart of flesh).  He will bring about His perfection as He speaks through us.

(Psalm 81:10), “I am the Lord your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt; open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.”

God is saying in this scripture that He doesn’t want us to fear.  He wants us to trust that He will fill our mouth with words that are not our own at the time they are needed with that which comes from heaven; not from our own intellect or charisma alone. 

God wants to astound those that live outside the kingdom of God through the testimony of godly people.  He wants to lift us to a supernatural plane by filling us with His Spirit.

When we give away from ourselves, in any capacity for the Lord, God gives back into our bosom.  It is not that we give to get, but it just happens that way, because God said that it would.  I have learned, by doing, that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

(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.”

God fills a willing heart with confirmation that they are doing the right thing.  The joy and feelings of accomplishment that He brings are overwhelming at times.  A Believer doing God’s will can be the means of miracles taking place in another person’s life, because of God’s faithfulness to bless their efforts.

(Isaiah 55:11), “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

I believe that a willing heart is like a heart of flesh that the Bible speaks of.  It certainly isn’t a heart of stone; a person set in their ways and not willing to help or see how God could use them in positive ways.

(Ezekiel 36:26-27), “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.  I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”  vs.27 “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.”

How can you tell if a person has a heart of flesh or heart of stone?  Listen to them speak and watch how they treat others, especially those closest to them.  Actions speak loudly the kind of person they are inside—volumes.  You will know.  The evidence speaks for itself.

(Luke 6:45), “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil.  For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”

I believe that when we listen to what our heart (Holy Spirit) is saying, and act upon it, we shall be the means of winning someone to Christ.  They then can have a willing heart to stand in the gap to help someone else with similar needs.  A heart of flesh reaches out to people, because Jesus makes the difference in one’s heart when they choose to stand in the gap. 

Too many people are caught up in the non-important things of life and do little, if anything, for the kingdom of God.  It is heartbreaking, but true. 

(Ezekiel 22:30), “So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.”

I want to be the person that God is seeking after.  I do not want to turn a deaf ear toward Him.  I want to hear the knock at my heart’s door and obey His voice when He calls my name.  My prayer is this:  “Please Lord, give me a willing heart to be Your hand extended to those without hope.”

(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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Acquitted or Sentenced

In a court of law environment, those appointed to sit on the jury and the observers in the courtroom might hear the jury foreman read the ruling pertaining to the findings of twelve jury members surrounding the preponderance of evidence against a defendant that has been accused of a criminal act against society, thus, breaking laws pertaining to the offense.  “Not guilty” or “Guilty” is usually the verdict that is rendered.  

A “hung jury” sometimes occurs when members of the jury cannot agree as to the guilt or innocence of the one accused.  Another trial is then ordered by the judge unless the prosecuting attorney drops all charges, because there is a lack of evidence to convict the defendant.

Depending on the verdict, the person on trial will either be acquitted and set free or sentenced and incarcerated; separated from loved ones and friends for the period of time that the law prescribes; pronounced by the judge.

In the United States judicial system, a person is considered innocent until proven guilty, but when a person sins, they are automatically condemning themselves as being guilty in the eyes of God no matter the degree of sin.  Sin is sin.  There is no safe level of sin that God endorses, not even a little, white lie.

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

There has never been a person on earth that has not committed some type of sin except Jesus Christ.  He alone is the only individual that never sinned.  He was God in human flesh when He walked on earth.  The God of creation was incarnated (embodied) into a baby boy that was born to a virgin named Mary—Jesus, the Son of God. 

This wicked world needed a Savior, because of sin.  All generations of people since Adam and Eve have been declared “Guilty” because of the “adamic nature” that is born in every person.  This common denominator of disobedience and immoral character of self-indulgent living are the ensnaring fibers that separate us from a holy God.  

The Lord came to seek and to save those that were lost and condemned to hell.  God took upon Himself, flesh, and dwelt among man, because everyone was and is guilty as charged.  Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, which separated them and all future generations from God.  This judgment is inherited by default, but God made a way to reconcile humanity to Him.  

Only God can acquit fallen man for breaking His laws.  His Son’s death on the cross made it possible to set humanity free from their state of rebellion (sin) against the Godhead; free from the sentencing that accompanies sin. 

Humanity need not be sentenced to an eternity separated from God, because we are in the dispensation of God’s grace.  The human race is no longer under Old Testament laws, but if we confess Jesus as Lord of our life, we will certainly endeavor to live by them with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells inside every Christian. 

God shows mercy to those that believe on the name of Jesus and repents of their sins.  Jesus paid the full price for our redemption when He willingly died and shed His blood for the sins of mankind.  He is the mediator, our attorney that stands between God and us and pleads our case before Him.

Jesus bridges the chasm that separates us from God by showing Him the evidence of suffering that He endured for our redemption; nailed-scared hands and feet, and a wound in His side that was placed there by a Roman soldier when he speared Jesus as He hung on the cross suspended between heaven and earth.  The Lord paid the full price for our acquittal.  He willingly died on our behalf, because of His unconditional and absolute love for you and me.

(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.” 

When a person cries out for forgiveness and takes a step of faith toward Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to receive clemency and a purpose for living, God sees them through the blood that Jesus shed on the cross.  God immediately releases them from the bonds that held them fast—amnesty is manifested.  The blood reminds God of the promise He made to all people.

(1 John 1:9-10), “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  vs.10 “If we say that we have not sinned we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.”  

There is no other way to escape the sentencing of God except through His Son, Jesus.  God’s guilty verdict is the final ruling if a person stands before Him without the blood of Jesus covering their sins. Sentencing will take place at God’s judgment seat if their name is not written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

(Revelation 3:5), “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”

Acquittal happens at the moment of conversion.  What is conversion?  It is when an individual realizes their need of a Savior and surrenders their life to Christ by asking forgiveness of their sins.  God then rights the wrongs that they have done and forgives their sins.

This act of mercy is grace at its finest; given in love.  It is like being born-again.  Our spirit is pronounced clean—“Not guilty.”  We become spotless and white as the driven snow, because God removes the blackness of sin from our heart.  He then throws these sins into the sea of His forgetfulness, never to remember them against us again—even those little, white lies that we thought were okay, but weren’t.

Those that have found grace in the eyes of the Lord are born into the kingdom of God.  They become children of God in His forever family of Believers and joint-heirs with Christ.  His Spirit indwells the inner-being, which makes it possible to worship Him in spirit and truth.

(John 4:24), “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” 

(1 Corinthians 2:14), “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

Every individual is given freewill to choose right from wrong.  They will either live as God would have them live; separated from the pollution of uncleanness, or go their own way and sin, thus, sealing their fate, because they chose Satan’s way of living.  No one can serve God and Satan at the same time.  Freewill chooses one or the other. 

The choices made in this flesh determine the outcome of where our soul resides after death—heaven or hell—acquitted or sentenced.

(Matthew 6:24), “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other.  You cannot serve God and mammon.”

(Revelation 3:16), “So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”

The period of time that the Word of God prescribes to unbelievers is eternity in hell for those that refuse to submit their will unto God and turn from disobedience.  They are separated from God and loved ones forever. 

The verdict is not dependent upon twelve jury members.  God is judge and jury, but we are the ones that determine our destiny; no one else.  The choice is ours as to whom we will serve while on earth—God, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, or Satan, the father of lies and deceit.   

Written by,

Papa Boyd

We Will Miss You Mom

It is without a doubt one of the most terrible things in life that we will experience; the passing of a close friend or loved one, especially a mom.  When the final call has been made, “Come home my child.” and the shadow of death falls across the threshold of someone whom we hold dear to our heart, it hurts us deeply and our heart aches, because of the loss. 

Happiness fades under the weight of its sadness, and our world is turned upside down as it crashes around us.  It is difficult for our natural mind to grasp the finality of it all, and without failure, we begin to question, “Why?”

Many times a person can feel cheated and alone even though their siblings are near.  As they filter through the varied and mixed emotions that are being experienced, it is not uncommon for anger to burn within the bosom; a deep, gnawing rage that refuses to let up.  Some individuals, because of grief, blame God for His lack of concern. 

A finger of accusation is quickly pointed in His face with words crying out, “You made a mistake!” while reminding Him of how much their mom had to give and how much love she had to share. 

“Why did He take her?  How could He do this to my family and me?  How could He take our children’s Grandma away from them? How could He turn His back on our prayers and abandon us when we needed Him most?”  These and more are some of the questions asked.    

One thing is sure.  We cannot offend God, nor can we separate ourselves from His love—He is bigger than that.  He hurts when we hurt and wants to embrace us with His outstretched arms of compassion if we allow Him to do so.

(Romans 8:38-39), “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,” vs.39 “nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” 

God desires to hold us close at these hurtful times and impart strength and peace to our grieving inner-self.  He wants to be that solid rock on which we can stand in times like these.  He is our comforter and hears every prayer we pray.  He sees the tears that fall.  God wishes to soothe and console our troubled heart with His perfect peace, of which we are searching for.

Though answers may never come to the many questions that we have, still we must believe that there is a higher power (God Almighty) that knows us by name and wants to be our strength.  He is always near; a breath away in times of need.  God is in the corridor of our heart speaking peace if we allow ourselves to hear Him.

No one will ever take the place of our precious mom.  She not only gave life to her children, she nurtured and loved us as only a mother could.  Wonderful memories are what she has given. 

As we take a moment to reflect on the countless good times spent with her, we feel her presence once again—memories of how she combed her hair; the smell of her perfume; and the times she corrected us, because she wanted her children to grow up having been loved by her, not only in training, but always.

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

These prized memories will be shared with her grandchildren as they grow into adulthood; sharing with them the legacy that has been such a part of our lives, because of her positive influence and enriched life.  Mom was a woman of prayer not only for her spouse, but as a mother, grandmother, and friend to many—a woman of God.

We are indeed blessed to have had a mom as precious as her.  Thank you, Mom, for loving us so much.  We will miss you dearly.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Bridges

Now and then I find myself entertaining thoughts of my youth when life was simple.  The games I played with neighborhood friends and the kids at school were fun.  These activities kept our minds engaged and our bodies healthy with wholesome enjoyment.

Hide-and-Seek and Kick-the-Can were my all-time favorites.  Ring around the Rosie, Tag, and Dodge ball were also gratifying.  Oh yes, singing the Mother Goose rhyme, “London Bridge is Falling Down” was also fun.

My forth grade teacher, Mrs. Hughes, loved music and wanted it to be a part of her student’s curriculum.  She called it, “The hour of music.”

I remember singing “Low Bridge” also known as “The Erie Canal” song.  This old folk song was written by Thomas Allen in 1905 after the change of mule power to engine power.  The chorus goes like this:

Low bridge everybody down

Low bridge for we’re comin’ to a town

And you’ll always know your neighbor

You’ll always know your pal

If you’ve ever navigated on the Erie Canal

Another pastime game that people have enjoyed since the 1930’s is Bridge.  It has been one of the most popular card games in the world.  But the subject matter of this writing does not pertain to games that people play around the dining room table with friends or family members, or the games we played as children.  The following thoughts explore the value of bridges, which are structures carrying a road, path, or railroad that span across a river, ravine, or other obstacle.

As a case in point, let us look for a moment at the aura that radiates from a freedom loving person that lives their life treating others like they themselves want to be treated.  This bridge of goodwill toward people is contagious when seen by others.  I have learned by observing and through the natural course of hands-on-doing that this way of treating people goes a long way in keeping relationships on an even keel.

It is never a good idea to burn bridges behind you, as a matter of speaking, because a person never knows when they might need to backtrack to the other side with regards to acquaintances they have met.  

Maintaining one’s integrity, while safeguarding relationships, attribute to the peace-loving nature that accompanies kindness when striving to keep the return path free from obstacles that clutter and make passage impossible.

Personal values and respect for others, when maintained, prevent an encumbering buildup of restrictive sludge that could impede or cut off communication with those on the other side of the bridge.  All too often, individuals with rude personalities lack the wherewithal and foresight it takes to learn lessons when dealing with personalities that differ from theirs.

Hindsight is ignored, because these people do not seize the time it takes or the moments available to think about past, negative encounters that they have had, nor do they consider earlier periods with people when ill-behavior trumped better judgment on their part.  They disregard other people’s feelings; not caring how the conversation was received or the impact it may have had on those around.  They regard kindred relationships as a form of weakness. 

Sadly, they use people and then toss them aside like an old pair of socks when they are through with them, thus, burning another bridge.  Perhaps they have a self-sufficient, self-reliant attitude that spits in the face of common decency.  They have not learned how to safeguard bridges and respect the worth of them.  For the most part they are most miserable people, because true happiness comes when giving away from oneself, which they refuse to do.

I believe that a haughty, thankless spirit is a sure recipe for failure.  Everyone needs someone, because we are not an island unto ourselves, although some people think and act like they are.  Liberation comes when communication is free flowing.  We were made by our Creator to interact with one another; learning by the other person’s failures and successes rather than keeping people at arm length.

How a person handles stressful situations or the challenges they face say a lot about that person’s character, which ultimately can affect those around them in negative ways if they radiate a downbeat personality.  Like the aura around freedom loving people that influence in positive ways, unappreciative people affect others in non-constructive ways, because of their self-centered lifestyle.

A self-absorbed heart is like a house built on shifting sand; lacking a solid foundation having reinforcement steel and adequate piers that reach bedrock. 

Personalities like this try to span the ravine of life by implementing their own way of building bridges by depending on their own brain power.  They do things without first considering the means that it takes to have a successful journey to the other side. 

Though intelligent and intellectually astute when it comes to making money or when capitalizing on material gain, they lack good judgment and the skills to build sound structures that can span from one side to the other; bridges to true freedom over impassable chasms.

Several people helped me to succeed in life’s ventures through their words of encouragement, giving me business insight, and sharing their personal experiences of what not to do.  Their advice saved me from taking the wrong fork in the road many times.  Their savvy and good business sense that I gleaned certainly helped me to do well. 

Good council is priceless and always beneficial.  Each person that helped me made up the integral members of the bridge that spanned the distance over the abyss of troubled waters.  I am glad I took note and listened to their words of wisdom and guidance.  

I suppose it is the natural instinct and character of some people to think they can exercise their own plan of attack to achieve something worth while, whereas, the physical realm and rules of engagement to attain possessions pertaining to material gain and financial success fall short of the mark when spiritual insight is necessary for true happiness.  This involves a higher power than the intellect of modern man’s high-energy philosophy and misguided ingenuity.

If a person, within their own ability, were able to achieve spiritual utopia with supernatural insight to the complexities of the universe and the hereafter, there would be no reason to honor a Nativity scene at Christmas, or imprint the words “In God We Trust” on our currency and coinage, or attend church, or read the Bible.  They would be self-sufficient in their own right.

(John 4:24) “God is Spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Though many sects, false religions, and cults believe that there are other ways to span the gulf of sin, which separates sinful man from a Holy God, the Bible teaches that there is only one bridge that connects unrighteousness to righteousness.  His name is Jesus, the Son of God.

(Acts 4:12) “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

The damming lie that Satan poses to mankind is that we, through good works, personal righteousness, going to church on Easter Sunday and Christmas, intellectual mumbo-jumbo through meditation, and the worship of idols, will make up the bridge to everlasting freedom for the soul of man. 

Those that are beguiled in believing this lie-from-hell will ultimately condemn themselves to an eternity away from the presence of Almighty God, because they rejected the only bridge not made my hands.

God can set at liberty any person that is bound by traditions, habits, and unproven religions if they so desire.  God gives each of us freewill to choose our way or His way.  Freedom comes through Jesus Christ.  He alone brings total forgiveness of unrighteous living.  It was the blood He shed on the cross that cleansed us from an unholy existence.  He died for the sins of humanity, because of love.

(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.”

The cross spans the gap, called SIN, which separates disobedient people from God.  Jesus hung there and was suspended with His hands nailed horizontally to unite a fallen people with their Creator—the bridge of forgiveness and grace.

Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.  Not a soul can come to the Father except through His Son.  The cross is the only bridge connecting sinful man to the holiness of God.  When we embark upon this straight and narrow path, the only way to salvation, it insures that our homecoming will take place in heaven. 

When Christians pass from this life they will spend eternity in the presence of unending love.  While the angels are rejoicing, those that are born again Believers will be united with the true and living God. 

The bridge to freedom is sure, solid, and unshakeable.  When other means fail to provide lasting peace and the assurance that (all is OK with my Maker), remember that the blood of Jesus was the price paid for our redemption.  The bridge toll was paid in full for those that accept Him as Lord and Savior.

We do not have to worry about the flames of hell burning this bridge.  The fiery darts of Satan are extinguished by the blood of the perfect Lamb of God.

(Romans 10:9-10) “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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Lost and Found

My thought for today begins with a question.  Have you ever lost a wallet or purse?  If so, I am sure you can relate to this writing. 

Remember the panic you felt in the pit of your stomach when you discovered that it was gone?  It wasn’t so much the money that I was concerned about; the angst of cancelling credit cards, obtaining a new driver’s license and medical card was now facing me.  I fretted deeply regarding identity theft.

I thought that I had been pick-pocketed at a garage sale, because I had the wallet in my hip pocket starting out that Saturday morning, but after the first or second sale, the wallet was gone. 

The experience left an indelible impression in my mind to take precautions as to the contents that I pack with me and to be more aware of my surroundings.  Lessons learned?  Yes, but who needs this kind of stress in their life? 

It is amazing how many times I looked under and behind my truck seat and every room in my house after hurrying home.  I retraced my steps and racked my brain; replaying the morning’s activities over and over again.  I was a mess.

It is easy to tell someone else that is going through similar anxieties to let God be their strength and not worry.  But when the experience becomes firsthand, the anguish of the event makes it harder to believe that God is concerned and will see you through the ordeal.  We just need to learn how to trust Him in all circumstances of life. 

My wife, the encouraging person that she is, told me that she felt strongly that the wallet would be returned through the mail, dropped off at the local police station, or brought directly to our front door by the person that found it.  She believed, because she had already given the situation to God, while I checked the mailbox, looked under my truck seat again, and looked in every room of the house for the umpteenth time.

I called the fraud alert; cancelled my credit card; went to the Department of Motor Vehicles; and the following Monday we went to the police station and filed the necessary report after being told that the wallet was not there.  Things were looking bleak, yet my wife reiterated, “You’re going to get it back.”  Wow, what faith!

How many times do we pray for help, but in the back of our mind we think that there is no hope?  Faith will move mountains when we trust that God will work out all things according to His perfect will for us. 

What is the mountain in your life that needs to be moved?  Pray, and then believe that God hears your prayer and will do what He said He would do in the Bible (give you the desires of your heart).  Then have faith to leave it in His hands to accomplish what needs to be done…not like the guy in the following paragraph.

I am reminded of a man that wanted to test his faith.  So one evening, before retiring, he looked through his bedroom window at a mountain in the far distance and exclaimed, “Mountain, be cast into the sea!”  The next morning he went to the window, and sure enough the mountain was still there.  “Just as I expected” he affirmed.

Where was his faith?  He prayed a miss.  He didn’t really believe that the mountain would be gone, because of his last statement. 

We need not test our faith in this manner, but when an opportunity arises that faith is knocking at the door to challenge our belief, we must open the door by faith and allow faith to receive the answer to our prayer.  Remaining behind closed doors accomplishes very little.  It takes opening the door to receive what God has for us. 

(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.”

My office is at the front of my house overlooking the street.  In this day with home invasions becoming more frequent, I am cautious as to whom I open the entry door.  Monday afternoon about 4:00 o'clock, two days after losing my wallet, a black car pulled up in front of my house.  I have heard that criminals sometimes use women as a ploy to get a homeowner to open their door and then men will storm the opening.

I heard a knock at the door.  I peaked out and a young woman was standing there with something in her hand.  I cautiously opened the door and the first words out of her mouth were, “Did you lose a wallet?” as she held it up for me to see. 

I could not believe my eyes!  But I should have, because I prayed that God would someway return it.  My driver’s license, credit card, medical card, important papers, and my pictures were all there.  She had found it in the gutter on her way to school.  It must have fallen out of my pocket, while exiting the truck.  Amazing!  Just amazing that I was staring at my lost wallet!  I was awestruck.

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

God is concerned about the small things just as much as the big ones.  Though I had taken care of everything I needed to do when losing important cards, etc., the peace of mind and ecstatic joy that I experienced in seeing my wallet again was overwhelming.  It showed me just a glimpse of what God must feel when a wayward soul repents of their sins and is reunited with Him.

The lyrics to the song, Amazing Grace, say it all.  “I was lost, but now I’m found.”  I was like the wallet, away from my keeper, but God reached down into the gutter where I had ended up and brought me to the very door where I was received with great rejoicing.  Jesus will do the same for you.  Just say His name, repent of your sins, and believe.

(Luke 15:10), “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Consider the Plank

I believe the following statement is typical of most inhabitants in the world.  Seeing another individual’s faults, yet failing to see their own shortcomings is characteristic of humanity, generally speaking.  For some reason, prying minds are enthralled with other people’s dealings to the point of thinking they have all the answers to right the wrongs in another person’s life.  Honestly, I cannot think of anything else that comes easier than standing in judgment of others, which is frowned upon by God.

When I was a youngster, my mom told me that if I pointed my finger at someone else, three fingers were pointing back at me.  She was saying, in essence, “Don’t be so quick to judge.”  Mom made me aware that I should not criticize or challenge another person’s behavior or choices when my backyard may be full of like things as theirs or perhaps even worse.

It is an “elective duty” that people take upon themselves to straighten out another person, as it were.  It is easy to stand on the outside of someone’s house-of-affairs and think they can do things better than they.  But the critical observer may not have all of the facts nor see things from the other party’s prospective. 

Perception is something interpreted through a mental impression, which is not always as it seems.  If a “duty minded” person is not walking in the same shoes as those going through certain challenges of life, it stands to reason that it becomes easier to pick apart the other person’s motivation when all the facts are not known, especially when they themselves are blind in one eye and can’t see out of the other, figuratively speaking.

If we live in a glasshouse, we should't throw rocks.  Likewise, seeing faults in someone is not a license to act upon that observation when there is blurred vision involved.  To see clearly to assist someone else takes clear vision on our part, which involves removing the things out of our own life before trying to help those that are facing far less ordeals than we are.  Our efforts will be rejected as they exclaim, “Who do you think you are to tell me what to do?  Look at your own life!”

(Matthew 7:3-5), “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?”  vs.4 “Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye?”  vs.5 “Hypocrite!  First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

Someone that is head-over-heels in debt; owing everyone under the sun, has no business giving advice to those having missed a car payment unless they themselves get their house in order by eliminating debts.  They may then be able to advise those having financial setbacks on how to manage their money.

People are quick to find fault in others even though they are a mess themselves.  We can all learn from the teaching in (Matthew 7:3-5) if we heed its message.  It will help to free us from the responsibility that we have placed upon our shoulders of living another person’s life for them.  Losing sleep when they make bad choices is not healthy. 

The Lord can make good out of bad situations when called upon in times of need.  God will never leave nor forsake His children. 

In my opinion, learning by our mistakes is sometimes the best teacher when the advice from others fails to hit home, thus, falling on deaf ears.  But there are extenuating circumstances that can certainly enter into this scenario, which should allow consideration.

A development of events beyond their control may open the door for deliberation on such matters, but wisdom should always be implemented prior to involving oneself financially or any other way if lessons need to be learned. 

People mean well when they bail another person out of their woes of which lighthearted decision-making may have created.  I believe it is an attempt by the enabler to ease the pain or burden that falling into a pit can cause, especially if they themselves stumbled, because of similar pitfalls. 

How will a person learn to stand on their own two feet and prevent from being entangled in foolish spending and wasting money if a rope is always thrown to them when they send out an SOS?  This undisciplined lifestyle of throwing money to the wind is like saying, “Live for today and let tomorrow take care of itself.” 

Who am I to tell them how they have erred if I do likewise or worse?  Time will reveal what mistakes they have made, and hopefully they won’t repeat them.  Each of us needs to consider the plank in our own eye and remove it so that we can see clearly how to remove the particle of sawdust from someone else’s eye.

Whenever I am tempted to speak my mind about what another person is doing or not doing, the Holy Spirit is quick to remind me of my shortcomings, which helps me to re-evaluate my thoughts and control my tongue.  My prayer is as follows:

(Psalm 141:3), “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

It is not fun to look inward, because of what may be revealed, but these are the moments when God can help us draw neigh to Him by helping us to behold the plank in our eye and then doing something about it.  This is the process by which Christians learn to put off the old, sin nature and put on awareness of how to become more like Christ.

I thank God for His love and patience in making me conscious of areas that need improvement.  The Lord helps me to enlarge the boarders of my understanding, while improving our relationship with one another. 

He will do the same for you if you want more of God; Who will enable you to be a true help to those around you.  Clear vision will follow when the plank has been considered and removed from your eye.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Open Door

I wonder how often a person misses out on opportunities from God, because of fear.  It is certainly intimidating at times to step through the open door in front of them to venture into uncharted waters.  But how many times have they been protected, because they called upon the name of the Lord before stepping through a door that God did not open?

As for me, I move slowly and with caution when approaching an open door of believed prospect.  My very nature is to slow things down, but some people are impulsive and go headlong into areas where angels fear to tread.  Investing time, money, or talents is indeed rewarding when it is God’s timing to step through a door of His choosing.

When I am not sure if it is God’s will for me to speculate on making a move, it is always slow going and deliberate, which I believe is prudent in this day.  Something negative could be lying in wait beyond the open door; hoping that I will blindly step through, however, it could be something good that is about to happen, but I need to prayerfully venture outside of my comfort zone to see what God has in store.  

Unscrupulous people are always trying to get into our hip pocket or purse strings  and lead us astray in some way, whereas, the continued blessings of God could be just beyond the threshold.  This is why we must always be led of the Spirit. 

There is nothing wrong with being cautious and getting all the facts before making our way through the opening.  Praying “Not my will, but Your will be done” should always be the number one priority before taking a step of faith.

I believe that my steps are ordered of the Lord as the Bible says.  When it appears that a door is open before me, I do not jump through it without first considering the full cost of the move.  I pray until I have peace in my heart that the decision I am about to make is in my best interest.  

I endeavor to allow the Holy Spirit to lead me into all truth and that the choices I make are within the realm of God’s plan for my life.  I have never been led astray when I included God in my decision making.

The natural propensity of hasty people is to sometimes act without thinking when it seems that a deal or opportunity is going to slip through their fingers unless they act quickly.  These are the times when throwing caution to the wind can be detrimental.  Weighing the pros and cons, through prayer, is in order and will certainly be to their advantage when disciplining themselves to not get caught up in the rush of things.

If a Believer is supposed to have a certain thing, God will make a way and give peace, while helping them achieve it.  If not, I believe that God will block the open door to prevent access as long as they are mindful to His warnings.  

With God on our side, whom or what shall we fear?  All power belongs to Him.  He supplies our needs according to His riches in glory; the very best for His children as they abide in His statutes and obey the Ten Commandments. 

The last statement is not to say that God does not want the best for non-Christians…He does, but it is up to each individual whether or not they give their life to God in order to receive His best.

Open doors test our ability to maintain patience, while exercising faith.  I always pray, “If it is Your will that I step through the open door, then let no man close it, but if not, close the door and let no man open it.”  This has always worked for me.

Three ways to know if an “Open Door” is from God:

1. The door that God opens will never contradict His Word.
2. The door that God opens will be accompanied by confirmation.
3. The door that God opens will require you to depend on Him.

I worked in an office where the departmental head had an “open door” policy, which made working there a delight.  He was a good boss that didn't sit behind closed doors and deny a one-on-one visit from the employees.  Communication was always encouraged and he listened to anything that was on our mind; without reproach.

Our heavenly Father is like this.  We can go to Him with all of our concerns, questions, doubts, fears, and uncertainties, because He is a good Father that does not condemn us.  We can approach Him with anything and He will take the time to listen and give direction, while stroking us in love.

Whenever I step through a door that God opens, I am amazed at the wonders and blessings that come my way, because I trusted Him.  He has always exceeded my expectations when I took a step of faith.  His resolve has been perfect in all things, but it required me to walk through the opening.

(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.”

When we step through doors of opportunity, it can advance us monetarily, spiritually, or whatever way God chooses to bring His Word to fruition in our life.  Or perhaps God has someone in mind that He wants us to speak life into; a person that is seeking answers to feed their starving soul. 

It is remarkable how God fills my mouth with words that are not my own; just the right words to promote the “Good News” to people that need it the most. 

The power of the Holy Spirit works in and through our efforts to help non-Believers become a part of the family of God; to provide them with the direction they need in order to find salvation through Jesus Christ.  God’s Word never returns void.  It is everlasting.  The Holy Spirit will continue to draw them to the Lord, because of the words that we shared in love. 

The Good News is Jesus Christ, God’s Son.  God gave His Son to die on the cross for our sins in order that we possess the hope of eternal life in heaven and life more abundantly on earth.  Salvation is just a prayer away.  Old things (the former way of life) pass away and all things (a new beginning) become the superior mindset of a soul that has been set free from sin.  This experience is called the “new birth” or being “born-again.”

(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.”

When Christians give away from themselves and step through doors that God has opened, He always rewards those that give.  We do not give to get, but God’s Word declares it to be so.  He gives far more than our giving, because the Bible is truth and when truth prevails, positive things happen.  God cannot lie.

I am sure that you have read the words of Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).  This statement is so true.  Whenever a person blesses another individual, the mere act of giving brings an overwhelming feeling of great happiness or joyful excitement to the giver.  The following are more words spoken by Jesus.

(Luke 6:38), “Give and it will be given to you:  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.”  

The open door policy that God makes possible, allows us to come boldly to His throne and communicate with Him anytime that we want.  We can go directly to Him through Jesus Christ and know that our petitions are heard and that He will fulfill His promise to never leave or forsake us.  He will always supply our needs.

(Hebrews 4:16), “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

We have the privilege to knock at the door and know, with confidence, that God hears our knock and will open it unto us.  He wants to commune and love us with a never ending love.

(Matthew 7:7), “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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd