Prayer + Faith = Trust

I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “Prayer is the key, but faith unlocks the door.”  This expression sums up the meaning of being a Christian who trusts God.

Walking by faith is more than waking up in the morning and saying, “I am going to rely upon God for everything today.”  These words are nice, but have little depth unless a person has prepared themselves mentally and spiritually for the next few hours of challenges. 

Prayer coupled with faith is the two ingredients that produce a mind-set of total trust in God.  I don’t believe it just happens.  We have to plan, in advance, how to sustain our relationship with godliness. 

Being tempted to stray from biblical teachings, leaving ourselves open to Satan’s trickery is reality in a nutshell.  Look at the fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.  They were beguiled by the devil (the serpent) to sin.

We are familiar with prayer, but what is faith and how do I attain it?  The Bible says that faith comes by reading God’s Word—the Holy Bible.  It empowers the reader to stand fast in the face of opposition, calamity, and whatever a new day brings.

How does reading the Bible produce power?  I don’t know it just does when an individual dedicates time and effort in reading it.  It is sharper than any two-edged sword.  We can speak its truth in boldness and watch things happen on our behalf.  Peace comes when we leave it with God—His will be done concerning the matter.

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

(2 Corinthians 5:7), “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

The Bible was written by holy men of old that were breathed upon by God to pen infallible words of inspired truth.  God is omnipotent and His Word never fails.  We can trust what it says and stake our reputation and life on its accuracy.  It is God’s will and testament to all Believers.

(Matthew 21:22), “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

I was raised by Christian parents that believed in prayer.  It was a common practice in our household.  They walked by faith every day and taught me the value of serving God and trusting Him in all things. 

Mom told me a story of the time I was being punished for being naughty when I was a lad.  I pleaded with her to pray for the pain that I was feeling on my bottom side.  “Pray Mamma pray!” I exclaimed as the tears rolled down my cheeks.

I knew the power of prayer, because I had experienced, first hand, answers to prayers numerous times when Mom or Dad would lay hands on me and pray for healing.  I had faith in my heart that if Mom would pray, the pain would go away.  She was so touched by my request that she ceased the spanking, thus, another prayer answered.

Prayer coupled with faith works.  I trust the Lord for the details of my life.  He is the complete source of my strength.  There is nothing in this world, except taxes and death that you can count on.  Other things like pride and vanity fail.  They are smoke and mirrors, while material gain produces only momentary satisfaction, nothing lasting.

Prayer plus faith equals trust in Jesus Christ, which completes a person both emotionally and spiritually.  This phenomenon, the object of a person’s perception, allows the senses or mind to recognize Deity.  This observable fact enables them to freely drink from the springs of living water that God provides to those that believe and faint not. 

Their confidence, or trust, is enhanced each time answers avail themselves.  God will do what He said He will do in the Bible for those that believe on the name of Jesus.  This belief system is called, walking by faith, which pleases God.

(Hebrews 11:6), But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a re-warder of those who diligently seek Him.”

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18), “Rejoice always,” Vs.17 “pray without ceasing,” Vs.18 “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Rummaging Through Yesterday's Memories

I don’t make a practice of living in the past where heartache was the norm, because I am now a born-again Christian.  Rummaging through yesterday’s lustful, unwelcomed memories is nothing to dwell upon, whereas, Godly experiences help us face today’s challenges when reflecting upon the positive.

God gave me a wonderful computer on my birthday—my brain at birth.  It can recall things as far back as my youth, no doubt, equal to an elephant’s memory. 

I did research on elephants and the studies that were made regarding their recall capabilities.  It was interesting reading.  To say a person has the memory of an elephant is certainly a compliment, not a criticism.

Because of the marvelous capacity of our gray matter, memories can be pure or they can be tainted if allowed to wander.  When negative thoughts from my past begin to creep into my thinking, I immediately reject them by exclaiming, “I’m outta here!”  In doing so, this is my way of resisting the devil as the Bible says we can do. 

(James 4:7), “Therefore submit to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

Nothing good can come from dwelling upon past memories if those memories are wistful thoughts of the bad and ugly nature of one’s former, sinful life.  Let’s face it, Satan has the monopoly on glitz and glitter in this world, but he fails to inform the user-of-filth of the end result that sin leads to—a life of uncertainty, without hope. 

The unrest and worrisome lifestyle of a non-Christian far exceed what the mind can imagine in the beginning of indulgent living.  The consequences are less than satisfying not only health wise, but most significantly the waning health of the spiritual entity of a person. 

Standing before the Lord on judgment day, giving an account for deeds done, is a sobering thought.  Rummaging through yesterday’s memories of times that the Holy Spirit called their name, but rejecting the call will haunt them for eternity.  I shudder to think how terrifying it would be to hear the words from God… “Depart from Me; I never knew you.”

After jotting down my thoughts today, I questioned, “Where is the hope in this writing?”  The only hope of eternal life in heaven is Jesus Christ.  He is the one and only way to God Almighty.  There is no other name, whereby, sin can be forgiven.

(Isaiah 64:6), “But we are all like an unclean thing and all our righteousness are like filthy rags…”

Jesus changes our thought process when we ask God to forgive our sins and we invite the Lord into our heart.  Good memories begin at the moment of salvation when we become children of God.  The old nature ceases when Jesus becomes Lord of our life.

(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.”

Rummaging through yesterday’s memories is put on hold when we yield our mind to the things of God.  We need not end up like Lot’s wife when she turned and looked back toward Sodom and Gomorrah, cities of the plain where sinful living had become an abomination to God (Genesis 19). 

I believe that when she turned to view the city of Sodom, her memories encompassed the sinful surroundings that she had become accustomed to.  She ignored the words from the angle of God… “Do not look back.”  She was immediately turned to a pillar of salt.

It is just as important for you and me to not look back at past sins and dwell upon their impurities.  Keeping our eyes and mind upon wholesome things prevent us from rummaging through yesterday’s memories of the old sin nature.

(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.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Cast All Your Cares Upon Him

Preparing to write my thoughts, the first words that came to mind were, “God I need You.”  It is my desire to share opinions and viewpoints that are God-inspired, rather than filling a page with words that sound like sounding brass and tinkling cymbals.  I want my thoughts to challenge, inspire, and motivate-to-action those that read them.

I believe that God has sent you my way, not to receive a crutch or band aide to help you through a time of whys and unknowns, but to persuade you in putting your trust wholly in the One who owns the cattle on a thousand hills; the One who speaks peace in the face of impossible odds; the One who calms the storm and shines the light of His love where love has ceased to be—His name is Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

I could spend the rest of our time together reminiscing past woes, while anticipating the negatives that may come because of them, or we can put our hand in the hand of someone that affectionately cares about what you are facing.

When Jesus speaks, “Peace be still,” the calmness of His voice and presence of God dispel doubt and fear, while the heavy weight of the cares of life are lifted from shoulders that are weary from carrying them.

The song, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus,” goes something like this… “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.”

When we take our eyes off of the problem and look to the problem solver, something happens that confounds even the most intelligent of minds.  Peace like a deep, flowing river floods our being when we speak the name of Jesus.  An aching heart is filled with hope, while despair is changed to expectation and optimism.  Try it and you will see.

The Lord is patiently waiting for you to call out to Him for help.  Just cast your cares upon Him and see what happens.  It works; I promise.

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

(Psalm 55:22) “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Nothing of Value Comes Without Effort

With my recent move and settling into a new location closer to our grand-kids, it has been a while since I’ve shared my thoughts.  I suspected that our last home that I built thirty-three years ago would be my place of residence until that final relocation in the sky, but God had other plans.

When you think you have everything figured out and all is going well, God sometimes throws a curve and decision time is here again.  When this happens, everyday routines change and the looking back is usually pleasant or perhaps it isn’t.  Nevertheless, we can trust the sovereignty of God, knowing that He is mindful of our steps.

(Psalm 37:23) “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.”

To set in motion God’s plan, we can find ourselves stepping through one door, which leads to other doors that we can choose to walk through or not.  When we believe that all things work together in positive ways for born-again Believers, the will of God is easier to recognize and accept concerning our future.

Sometimes the door in front of us is a bit intimidating to step through, because we cannot see what lies beyond.  But we can put our faith in God to open the door that no man can close or to keep it closed that no man can open.  Thus, we walk by faith if we are of a mind to do so. 

Ultimately, it is our choice; we are free moral agents to choose door #1, door #2, or door #3.  God does not usurp our will, but the Holy Spirit, in fact, moves in our heart to choose rightly.  It is up to us to make the final decision.

For the most part, it is easier to float along with the tide of everyday living and just exist without putting forth an effort to see what is on the other side of the door.  We can become content in well-doing without venturing to far from our comfort-zone, whereas, this movement or lack thereof profits little or nothing.

As I see it, to set back on one’s laurels, lacking the intestinal fortitude to even attempt something new or challenging is like saying I am content with the status quo.  This reluctant attitude of stepping out in faith to see what God has in store for us says a lot about our station in life.  It is easy to give into Satan’s scheme to subdue and set us on the shelf of “do nothing.”

This attitude is a sure way to fail without any effort being manifested.  A person’s behavior of “why try” runs a close parallel to “I give up.”  We must shake our self awake from the supposed, compulsory sleep that has inadvertently overshadowed us. 

To change venue, job employment, so-called friends, or whatever area you are drowning in, takes courage to reach out and take the doorknob and turn it by faith and see what God has for you.  Nothing of value comes without effort.  Determining in your soul to transform certain attitudes is important.  As my father-in-law would say, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

The old nature that says, “Less effort equals failure before doing anything,” becomes less and less noticeable, because “success” is now in one’s vocabulary of hopes and dreams that can be achieved with God’s help.

My dad was a great believer in doing your very best at whatever you set your mind to do.  God will advance our efforts, because He wants the most excellent blessings for His children.  But we must show ourselves worthy of our hire so that God can move forward with His plan for bigger and better things in our life.  This takes effort on our part.

I have often prayed for God to lock the door in front of me or swing it wide open so that I would know that it was He who was doing the work.  Moving from one city to another was no exception, especially this late in life. 

Step by step as door after door opened, it filled me with exhilaration and stimulated my trust in God even more.  I said earlier that looking back is usually pleasant or perhaps not.  I wish I could say that the move was all roses and that nothing unpleasant happened, but this was not the case.  Challenges did happen, but I was not out of the will of the Lord. 

Through each situation my wife and I continued to believe that God wanted us in the same city as our children and grandchildren.  For the most part, all went well, but Satan seemed to raise his ugly head in the best of times to cause us to doubt God’s supremacy.  As an old friend once said, “Keep on keeping on.”  This is what we did.

Looking back we can certainly see the hand of God working out all things in our behalf that were temporary roadblocks that Satan had placed in our pathway.  God’s peace never left us.  The move was and is fruitful, as is our relationship with our sons, daughters, and grandchildren.  The value of togetherness was the result of effort put forth, and of course, trusting God.

Knowing that God’s will is perfect, and believing that God opened a door before us through circumstances, spiritual conformations, or things just working out, it is my nature to be cautiously optimistic when stepping over the threshold into another realm of God’s perfection—guarded in some respects, because I believe that we are to move with caution and eyes open.

When it seems the honeymoon could be over, figuratively speaking, and doubts begin to flood the mind that a wrong decision was made, we must stop, look, and listen to what God is saying; what He wants us to see; and what He wants us to learn.  When we take to heart God’s reasons why the door was there, we again feel His peace.  Resisting the devil’s attempts to create doubt regarding God’s excellence is crucial.  Remember, Satan’s roar is harmless and he is the father of lies.

Perhaps God is challenging our ability to deal with adversities and trust Him for the answers, or He is merely testing our character as to how we deal with the negativity going on in our brain.  Rather than slacking our responsibility to husband, wife, being a parent, or relaxing initiative concerning our employer that hired us in good faith, we must shake our self into submission and rise above downbeat thinking. 

God honors good, moral fiber in those that stand admirably in the face of adversity.  Unhappiness or discontentment can cause premature decisions to be made.  Waiting on God makes sense.  It is crucial.  Being out of God’s will is not a good place to be.  Wrong decisions can change the providence of not only one’s self, but everyone in close proximity to the one making decisions.  

Boredom can create bad habits in the workplace as well as other areas of life when we permit it to consume our better judgment.  For this reason we must resist irritation, not allowing it to devour our happiness.  Waiting for God’s solution and perfect timing is vital when troubles or tribulations arise.  Trusting God and keeping a good attitude about things keep us focused and out of the mulligrubs—ill-tempered mood.

The worst time to make decisions is when we are in the valley of despair.  God sees us where we are and desires the best for His children.  Believe it!  When we keep the right attitude, our Father in heaven will do what He said He would do to provide us with a successful and happy life.  We need to trust Him and put forth the effort it takes to achieve the value of God’s best.

The door God places in front of us can come about through situations changing, word-of-mouth attesting to one’s strength of character and skill, spiritual conformation, or things just working out for our good.  However or whatever God chooses to bring about His ideal purpose concerning us will happen, but we need to be patient and be willing to put forth the effort it takes to open the door when it comes into view.  Nothing of value comes without effort.

There might be a thousand reasons that God needed you where you are, yet we sometimes see through a glass darkly, not seeing the total picture.  Don’t lose heart, in time God clears obscurity-of-vision to reveal the reasons if we are looking for those reasons, rather than complaining and keeping our head bowed low and asking, “Why?”

When we hold our head high and make the most out of the new position, the new location, or new surroundings, a positive attitude develops, especially when we recognize God’s hand at work in our life, while taking heed to those He placed around us.  Perhaps they need a relationship with Almighty God, and God chose you to bring the Good News that Jesus Christ is the answer for their life.

Some doors are placed in our path so that we can influence others in positive ways.  Doors also help us to grow in faith and character in preparation for the next door of opportunity that God sets before us.

When we prove ourselves to God through endeavors to achieve excellence at our present employment, neighborhood, church we attend, volunteer work we are involved with; whatever the mission field we are willing to attach ourselves to, God continues to advance us in ways that will stagger our mind and mental ability to grasp all that the Lord is doing on our behalf.

God sees our faithfulness, tenacity and ongoing effort to prove our self.  He will advance us even higher, because His blessings are limitless.  We are His children and He will give us the desires of our heart.  Believe it!

(Matthew 25:23) “His lord said to him, ‘Well done good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.  Enter into the joy of your lord.’"

Written by,
Papa Boyd

When Difficulties Invade Our Space

No matter where we think we are on the scale of importance in this society of haves and have-nots, one thing remains constant, difficulties will find us whether we are high on the ladder of success of otherwise.  Setbacks care not what our rank-and-file may be or the color of our skin. 

As long as we walk this earth, trials and tribulations will come our way.  They are a part of living.  It is how we respond to these unwanted battles that set the level of angst we may or may not experience.  Either they overwhelm us or we refuse to crumble under the attack.  I choose to stand strong in God’s strength.  After all, He said that He would never leave or forsake us.

Though misfortune and even calamity strike, reliance on God and standing fast in patience, pushes doubt and fear aside, because of the hope within us.  I believe that patience and faith run a close parallel with each other, being synonymous.   Could it be they are one in the same?

When conditions change from all is well to why are these things happening, it is sometimes difficult to remind ourselves that Jesus is bigger than any problem we face when standing in the midst of the flames.  Reflecting on past victories builds our confidence and trust that God will see us through the hard times, because He cares for us and loves us with a never ending love.

David of old, in his youth, reflected on the times that he was able to slay a bear and lion with God’s help prior to facing the Philistine giant that was defying the armies of the living God.  King Saul and the men of Israel were dismayed and greatly afraid, but David stepped out in faith, knowing that the Lord would deliver Goliath into his hands and that he would defeat him in combat, because of past triumphs.  He knew that God’s faithfulness would not fail him (1 Samuel 17). 

Jesus loved us so much that He allowed Himself to be crucified on the cross for not only the forgiveness of our sins, but for the healing of minds and bodies.  We can know beyond a doubt that there is power in the blood He shed if we determine to do so.  He willingly gave His life for you and me.

Soon after Jesus resurrected from the dead and ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit descended to help us live for God in our daily walk with Him and to be our comforter in times of trouble.

Putting self-reliance and intellect in check helps us to maintain the ability to walk by faith.  This allows a person to be strong in the knowledge that God sees the situation and knows how to resolve it.  His love is bountiful and unconditional. 

It may seem that God is on vacation at times or that He owns a five dollar watch when waiting for Him to respond to our prayers, but His timing is perfect in all things.  Believing that He cares for us allows patience to have its perfect work, thus, faith taking control of the situation.  Positive change is the result of trusting God, whereas, mere feelings can mislead and produce doubt if allowed to control our thinking.

God is sovereign.  In Him, supreme power reigns to meet our every need.  It can be difficult to remind ourselves of God’s omnipotence when things are going wrong, especially when we have cried out to Him for help and it seems that our prayers are futile, producing little results.  At these times our faith is tested, causing our patience to sometimes waver.

When a storm unleashes all its furry and Satan jumps on our shoulder to point the finger at God for not caring, patience can be influenced negatively if we listen to his lies rather than rebuking him.  When patience is allowed to fluctuate, our level of faith weakens.  The devil knows this, but God is greater!  The Holy Spirit quickens our thinking and redirects it toward the One who truly cares.

It is easy to look at the circumstances rather than standing in faith.  I strive to not become anxious with the One who has the answers.  When I listen to the Holy Spirit and stop my complaining, faith has its way in my life.

Battling the unknowns that invade our space can fatigue anyone—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, but the Holy Spirit teaches us how to surrender our problems and our will to God, who brings resolution. 

As I stated before, God’s timing is perfect.  He always comes through, which builds trust in Him and strengthens our belief system even more.  When I look back, as David did, I see the hand of God working to bring about positive results through constructive influences, even though the driving force of attacks seemed overwhelming. 

God brings the victory—always.  He has everything in control.  The Holy Spirit will not leave us comfortless, and Jesus will be our friend that sticks closer than a brother.  God wants us to be happy and depend upon Him without leaning to our own intellect and understanding of things.  He shows us His love, which enables hope to reside in our heart.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to trust Him in all things even though we may not understand all that is happening in the moment.  His ways are far beyond our understanding.  We need to stop relying on our finite thinking that suppresses faith, and leave the hard times in the hands of the Lord, because He cares for us.

Worrying and fretting limits our ability to trust God.  Walking by faith is when our patience remains steadfast.  This faith in God brings peace and stability in the face of difficulties.  We need not feel like we are circling the drain when the shadows of gloom come our way, because children of God need not allow their mind to spin out of control when the Holy Spirit is speaking, “Peace, be still.”

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

 Written by,
Papa Boyd

The Light

I have heard the statement, “I am who I am and I can’t change,” so many times that it annoys me when I hear it… usually spoken by me through the years.

How can a self-centered, egotistical person change their spots or stripes, as it were?  How can they become something other than what their environment, status, or self-worth has indelibly printed upon their psyche.  The way they think or see things from their prospective is life as they interpret it.  Is this not true?  So, how can they change?

Self-help books may help, but they can only provide avenues whereby an individual can detour from their way of living if they have the intestinal fortitude to do so.  It takes hard work and determination, but the percentage of failed attempts is high.

I believe the success rate of changing one’s personality runs a close second to New Year resolutions.  People join health spas and gyms, buy expensive, exercise equipment, and begin a regiment of starvation diets of the latest craze, hoping to improve their self-worth and lifestyle.

With the full intension of making positive health changes as their goal, if the newness of the experience wears off, old habits begin to creep back into the picture.  It is not long before the light of determination begins to dim, and strength of mind and willpower fade into frustration. 

The exercise equipment finds its way to the garage and soon, thereafter, a garage sale.  The burgers and fast food restaurants, again, become commonplace.  The absence of follow-through and maintaining a made-up mind begin to wane. 

For the most part, people are weak within themselves.  “I am who I am and I can’t change,” haunts them, which is an ongoing force that cripples the ability to dream and continue with aspirations for success.

I dare not say that change is impossible, because it is.  It is dependent upon the individual and their frame of mind with relation to follow-through and positive thinking.    

Success stories do happen, and I give kudos to those that achieve realistic goals.  It takes sacrifice and denying self.  There are those that accomplish what they have dreamed, because of the determination within them.

I remember, as a young man in my twenties, wanting to change my personality from a self-centered, I don’t care type of person, to that of a caring, peace-loving man, which did not include God in the mix.  I refused to embrace Him in the wheelhouse of my success story.  He was beyond the visual horizon of my desires, because I thought it meant giving up everything having to do with fun in the sun, figuratively speaking.

Try as I may, the old nature kept creeping back like an old habit—a non quenchable thirst that could not be satisfied.  Various things were tried to satisfy the thirst, but to no avail.  My old personality refused to submit to a new way of facing tomorrow’s challenges.  The unrest and turbulence inside me choked all ambition of finding happiness.  What I needed most was peace of mind.

The prospective of opening the door that separated darkness from light had swollen shut, because of the dank surroundings I occupied for years.  Hope was seemingly just beyond my reach; the other side of the closed door that my weakened state denied me the ability to open.

How long must I try to walk into the light via my own strength; my own abilities; my own self-will?  Hope was eluding me, because I wanted it my way, without God; without commitment to His Son, Jesus; without forgiveness of sin.

In my weakened state I concluded that it was God’s way or no way at all.  Though I tried to find peace in the things of this world, nothing satisfied.  Trying to give up this and that acerbated the problem, which resulted in deeper, more frustrating failures to rise above the entrapment that bound me in darkness.

The lack of light affected me physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  Relying on self to try and manipulate inner emotions caused me to fall deeper and deeper into a state of depression rather than rising above the mind-set that I was drowning in.  I was running from God, even though I knew He must be the answer to my longings.

My journey was wearisome, because lasting peace evaded my reach on every turn, while sinking into the mire of self-indulgent living.  An up and down roller coaster ride was my plight with little hope for success in sight.

I could not contrive to bring about objectivity by deliberate use of learned skills and cleverness.  The use of cunning devices to trick or deceive others, to lure them into my web of loneliness, worked, but in the end, all of my shrewd tactics left me feeling desperate, inadequate, and incompetent… and yes, alone.

I was drinking from a filthy cup filled with the dregs of riotous living.  Self-help schemes failed; positive thinking failed, and self-will tactics failed, just like the New Year resolutions I had made.  I exhausted all means by which I thought happiness could be found and was none the wiser or closer to finding answers than the years prior.

Finally, when all else had failed and my mind resolved that nothing on earth could take away the longing in my heart except Jesus, I turned my eyes upward, not to gaze at the ceiling of my apartment bedroom or light fixture hanging there, I yearned for a brighter light that would brighten my day and shed light on my pathway ahead.

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

The light of the world was knocking at my heart’s door—Jesus Christ.  I could almost hear Him whispering, “Cast all of your cares upon Me, because I care for you.”  The rest that I was searching for was just beyond the closed barrier.  

(Matthew 11:28) “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

At a crossroads, I could see that the road I was on lead to destruction—sin and degradation.  It was wide with many pitfalls along the way.  The path to my right was straight and narrow, leading to an abundant life filled with peace and satisfaction—the way to God Almighty. 

I am thankful that I chose God’s way and asked Him to forgive me of my sins.  Jesus became Lord and Savior the moment I invited Him in.  The new path is brightly illuminated by the glory of His righteousness.  Jesus is the Light of the world.  Through His sacrifice, only, can a person experience eternal life in heaven.

My way was made clear when the light of God’s love opened my blinded eyes.  No longer do I walk in darkness, or fear what tomorrow may bring.  God gave me strength to open the door that separated me from His Son, because of love.  (John 3:16)

(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 just a sinner saved by grace.  Jesus changed my way of thinking and gave me hope that I never had.  My flaws are becoming less and less numerous, because the Holy Spirit is my strength who helps me accomplish goals and overcome the temptation to fall back into yesterday’s habits.

It feels wonderful to possess the quality of having strong, moral principles; honesty and decency.  God will do the same for you.  Just open the door and allow The Light to dispel all darkness around you.

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

Written by,
Papa Boyd

How Muddy is too Muddy

Every kid should have the opportunity to grow up in a carefree, happy-go-lucky environment without all the troublesome things that they have to worry about in today’s society. 

Things were different when I was a lad.  There wasn’t the fear of being physically abused or harmed in any way, and parents did not fret over someone abducting their child.  It just didn’t happen where I grew up. 

Martinez, California, a small bedroom community near San Francisco, was a tranquil place where a person could enjoy a stress free life without all the woes that we hear so much of today.  Respect for the law and the rights of others were valued and a principled way to live—a code of ethics as it were. 

Today’s moral and ethical values are crumbling quickly.  I believe it is because of the lack of parental guidance and the absence of a male figure in the home and the filth being shown on computer screens and television shows—morality is swiftly being eroded. 

The news media glorifying crimes and mayhem to get higher ratings is also lending to the tearing down of ideals in our country.  How sad it is that disorder is the theme of most reporters, because bad news and smut sell.

In my youth, marriage was a sacred and meaningful union between a man and woman; divorce was seldom the answer.  It was for better or worse, in sickness and in health, until death do you part.  I am afraid that too many people enter marriage with the idea that if it doesn’t work, they’ll go their separate ways.  What about the children?

On a less solemn note, the word television was not in my vocabulary as a child.  We didn’t have one in our home.  In my household, a bible had its rightful and just place on the coffee table in the living room, not gathering dust, but being read frequently by my parents. 

I knew the power of prayer when Dad asked Jesus to heal me when I was sick.  At night, from my bedroom, I could hear Dad praying for our needs and the needs of others before he went to sleep.  I was raised to have confidence in God that He would help me in every situation of life and that He loved me very much. 

Songs filled our home day and night about the love of Jesus.  I can still hear my mom singing them.  She loved Jesus and wanted me to learn of His love and to follow Him as well… which brings me to today’s thought and the title above, “How Muddy is too Muddy.” 

I guess I could have titled this writing, “Discipline” because Mom and Dad believed and taught the meaning of obedience to their four children, to have respect for elders and authority over us, which involved an occasional talking-to or the paddling of my behind—“A trip to the woodshed,” as my dad would say.  Never was he excessive or abusive.  It was to teach me that there are consequences for my ill-mannered behavior.

I was a typical kid that loved to romp and play and do the things that kids do at this age.  No one had to teach me how to get dirty.  It was an everyday occurrence, a fact of life when growing up and playing with my buddies around the neighborhood. 

I must say, Mom was not happy when I mixed water and dirt together to make a wonderful concoction called, mud.  It was the creativity of resourcefulness and ingenuity of mixing two components together to blend just the right consistency to make mud pies, mud balls, and mud-walled forts that protected my toy, army men from impending dangers that lurked outside the walls.

When boredom raised its ugly head, my friends and I did what most venturous kids do.  It started with a very small amount of mud being slung.  Not that much, but just enough to set the mood for the next few minutes of fun in the sun. 

Mom wasn’t around, and yes, I was just an innocent by-stander that just got in the way somehow.  The small amounts of mud turned into an all-out mud fight.  The consequences of my actions were far from logical thinking at that moment as a blob of mud hit my cheekbone and splashed into my eye and open mouth, which left me vulnerable when washing it out with the garden hose. 

The taste of mud was unpleasant and gritty between my teeth.  The odor was unsavory and gross.    Splat…this time an earful of the brown, gushy mud filled my right ear, affecting my ability to hear.

You know how boys are.  They don’t know when enough is enough.  With filthy, mud-splattered trousers and shirt, and hair a different color now, I wondered how muddy is too muddy?  What would Mom say? 

If we would have been happy throwing small amounts of mud, I probably would not have worried so much about getting in trouble.  Things went south in a hurry and the consequences for my actions hung over my head like a dark cloud, unless I could hide it someway from Mom.

It wasn’t so much that she had to work harder to get my cloths clean in her old, Maytag, ringer washer, and hang them on the backyard cloth line to dry, Mom was worried about my eyesight and eardrums being injured.

Grabbing the garden hose, I frantically started hosing myself off in hopes of getting rid of the telltale evidence before she saw me.  The mess was not as messy as it was, but the stain was there.  What now?  What should I do?  I guess I would have to face the music anyway.  I wish I had it to do over.  I’ll tell her that it was the other guy’s fault that I got so muddy.  Yeah right, that will go over like a lead balloon.

How many times do we fail, as adults, to give thought to the things we watch on television, thinking that we are mature enough to deal with the violence, language, sexually explicit innuendoes, and the immoral overtones that writers and directors purposely put in their movies?  It leaves stains in our subconscious that are hard to get out once embedded. 

What we allow to enter our eye and ear gate can, in time, affect the taste in our mouth and having the smell of dirt.  Our words and actions surprise us at times and we ask ourselves, “Where did that come from?”  If we think it through, we will know.

Years ago, being a new Christian, I was trying to live for Christ by doing and saying that which pleased God.  I remember one day at work backing into a piece of steel rebar that was sticking out of the forms that were erected for an upcoming concrete pour.  You would have thought I had committed the unpardonable sin when I blurted out, “Damn it!”

I felt bad and immediately asked God to forgive me.  It wasn’t so much the word that offended me; it was the thought of displeasing God.  How often do we get into situations that we wish we had a do-over?  It was that kind of feeling. 

Are the words we use or the things we do pleasing to God?  Do they bother us as much today as they may have in the past?  If not, we better take note of the things we are feeding our subconscious through the eye and ear gate.  They are becoming injured, which will affect the whole body.  What we do and say can influence others.

We are in a sad state of affairs if we think we are okay, but when we ask ourselves are we as close to God and sensitive to His voice as we once were, and the answer comes back, “No.”  We need to do something about it before we are engulfed with indifference.

When we let down our spiritual guard and allow a small handful of mud to find its mark, perhaps our eyesight and hearing becomes affected like the shirt and pants in the story.  In time if we allow the mud to increase, stains will be the negative result. 

How muddy is too muddy before we do something about it?  Are PG rated movies okay?  What about PG-13, or R, or X or XXX rated?  Where do we draw the line on garbage input?

A computer term is this: “Garbage in, garbage out.”  Our Christian responsibility is to strive to become more like Jesus rather than falling into condemnation, because of our willful, obstinate naughtiness behind closed doors. 

People around us observe what we do and say, but our children are taking note of how we live.  Do as I say, not as I do will shatter respect faster than quick can get ready. 

Actions speak louder than words.  We must be the example of a Christ-filled life, a light to show the way, like my parents were to me.  Believers are the seasoning that offsets the bad taste of mud that the world slings our way.

(Matthew 4:13-16), “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?  It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.”  vs.14 “You are the light of the world.  A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.”  vs.15 “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”  vs.16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

What Should I Do

Have you ever been in a quandary as to what to do next?  You felt like doing a certain thing, yet a prolonged struggle developed to do nothing.  I am not talking about being tempted to sin, because of bad behavioral issues with the flesh conflicting with God’s Spirit saying, “No.”  On the contrary, it is an inward clash of opposing wishes to do something for someone vs. not doing anything at all, because of embarrassment or fear.

Years ago, when I first became a Christian, God was teaching me how to hear His voice and respond to what He was saying.  It was not an audible voice; it was a strong feeling inside me, an out of the norm kind of feeling, to do something outside my comfort zone. 

I was sitting in church one Sunday evening and saw a person to my right and down a couple of pews, sobbing, with his head bowed low.  It was like the whole world was on his shoulders.  Empathy like I had never felt before welled up inside me and I wanted to go sit next to the man and offer some words of encouragement or pray for him.

I wrestled with the notion, thinking it was only my sensitive side reacting and not God speaking.  The longer I sat there the stronger the feeling to offer some kind of assistance caused my heart to pound hard in my chest.  But what would I say?  What would people think?  How would the person receive me?  Would it embarrass him?  All these questions and more filled my mind.

The moment I allowed apprehension to win and I decided not to respond to the call of God; another Believer arose, went over to the man, and began to minister God’s comforting words.  That hurting soul gave his heart to the Lord that evening and received Jesus as his Savior, because someone listened to God and obeyed His voice.

I missed out on a tremendous opportunity to introduce that man to the Prince of Peace, Jesus.  I was extremely happy for him, but felt miserable inside, because I failed to act upon the call.  God was giving me a chance to not only help someone in their time of need, it would have strengthened my relationship with Him.  My faith and spiritual awareness of the power of God working in me would have been greatly fortified had I yielded to what I was feeling.

It was a lesson that I have never forgotten.  I learned that when God wants something done, He uses willing souls to accomplish His work of grace.  Those that balk when invited to do His bidding will certainly have regrets later. 

When God-given emotions move within us to be His voice and we suppress it for whatever reason, and God chooses someone else to do the work, tears of regret will not bring back missed opportunities.  God’s program will continue with or without us.  But we can learn by our mistakes and do better the next time the Lord calls us to stand in the gap where we are needed—and He will.

It was a valuable lesson early on in my Christian walk.  I try to listen for His voice and act accordingly whenever He speaks.  I learned that most people respond in positive ways when kindness is expressed to them.  Few individuals reject a smile, words of encouragement, or someone taking the time to listen to their woes.

No doubt, there are those that will decline and rebuff an outstretched hand or kind words.  It has happened to me on occasion.  I had to realize it was their choice; I did my part in reaching out.  I believe that God will continue to strive with them through the efforts of other Christians and circumstances that will bring that soul to Christ. 

I have learned that when I look for opportunities to be God’s hand extended to hurting, oppressed people, or to someone that just needs recognition of some kind, God places me exactly where I can do the most good.  When I share about God’s goodness, I walk away encouraged in my spirit, because it is more blessed to give than to receive.  Try it, you will find it to be true.  You will feel the joy of giving.

(Proverbs 25:11), “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”

A word of thanks or a token of appreciation given by slipping a few dollars to a cook at a fast foods restaurant, dishwasher, or the one cleaning tables and sweeping floors, always brings a smile to their face.  You acknowledged, with gratitude, their hard work.  Just showing others that you recognize their efforts is God’s voice and His hands extended.  A cup of cold water, as it were.

God sent His Son to show love, while ministering to people’s needs.  He died on a cross for the sins of mankind, because of love.  It is up to every Believer to spread this good news to those that are bound by sin; to tell them that they can be set free from bondage through Jesus Christ the Lord.

The responsibility associated with the gathering of lost souls, pointing them to Jesus, is a task that brings great rewards.  This process may come in stages before a person gives their heart to God.  It is like sowing seeds in a field.  Certain workers till the ground in preparation for the seeds; others sow the seeds; and there are those that water the seeds.  Finally the reaping of the harvest takes place, while everyone that took part rejoices.

We should not become discouraged if someone rejects our efforts to share the plan of salvation.  It is God that gently brings the increase and draws non-Christians to Him.  He is patient and knows each person’s need and how to meet their need. 

God has everything in control, but He has commissioned Believers to reach out to those that do not know Him.  It takes godly people working together and doing their part, while leaving it up to God to do the rest—like workers in the field.

This past Sunday morning I met a gentleman and his wife that were sitting in front of me before church service began.  Toward the last of the service, that same familiar voice began speaking to my heart.  I sensed that I needed to give the man one of my business-sized cards that has my blog website and other information on it.

Again, the conflict in my mind ensued—what should I do?  I knew if he visited my website he would be encouraged with God’s Word and my writings of hope.  I felt he needed something from the Lord.

At the end of the service I told him how nice it was to meet him and handed him the card, saying, “I want you to go to my blog and read it.”  He thanked me and said that he would.  Whether he does or doesn’t is up to him.  I did my part.

When we question, “What should I do,” it is better to be right in the eyes of God than to sit back and allow someone else to take part in the process of soul winning or being God’s hand outstretched.

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

No doubt there was a reason I gave him the card.  I just feel good that I did what I felt was needed at the time, whether the reason is ever revealed to me or not.  It is our reasonable service to be used of God.

(Romans 12:1), “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

God will never ask us to do something that we are unable to do or that He has not prepared us for.  He will go before us and fight the battles.  We need not fear.

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

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Let Faith Arise

The title of this writing expresses the essence of my thoughts for today.  Sadly, it is not too often that a remarkable awareness like the following experience takes place, but when situations or stimulating developments awaken the grey matter between my ears, the intensity to share it with others heightens to the point of joyful excitement .

First off, God wants and expects His children to exercise faith in everyday living.  By doing so, it keeps the vertical relationship with Him fresh, open and alive so that the horizontal plane with others can be more affective when sharing the goodness of Christ.  Introducing Jesus to hurting people that do not know Him as their Lord and Savior is the highlight of God’s commission to Believers. 

Faith and works go hand in hand.  Without it, it is like a missing heart with no place for blood to go.  Faith is at the heart of believing, and believing is faith unleashed and unfettered. Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6) and to do the work that is expressly needed to be accomplished.  Rubbing shoulders with those around us is a sure way to distribute the good news that God loves them with a passionate, everlasting love.

I bought an eight inch round mirror for my wife this Christmas that magnifies 10x on one side and has a standard, reflective mirror on the other.  It was made to hang on a wall and is equipped with a three position switch that, when turned, provides variable intensities of light on both mirrors.  I mounted the unit on the wall next to one of the vanity sinks in our dressing room.

Previewing the mirror before installing, I saw two, very tiny plastic washers, clear in nature that went under two decorative, securing nuts that held the mirror’s arm to the bracket assembly that I attached to the sheetrock.

Having finished the preparatory work on the base, the only thing left to do was attach the movable arm of the mirror to the base with the two washers and decorative nuts—but where were the washers?  They were there a moment ago, but now they’re gone.

The washers were included to prevent scratching the chrome finish on the housing assembly as the nuts were being tightened to the two protruding screws of the base assembly.

I looked and I looked feverishly for the two, 3/8 inch diameter washers at nausea; praying to God for His help in finding them.  I even got my high powered flashlight to assist in the search.  They had to be there, but where?  I knew that God would come through for me and I’d see them at any moment.

Perhaps it was a test of my patience.  Was I going to have to install the mirror without the washers and scratch the finish on the chrome?  No, I felt strongly that God was going to help me find them; I just hadn’t seen them as yet.  I patiently continued the search.

Several minutes later the washers were still not found, but I did not give up hope.  Time was wasting, because I wanted to surprise my wife by having the installation completed by the time she returned from shopping.

I went to the kitchen for a glass of ice water, believing God would reveal where those rascals were.  I cannot explain how deeply the conviction was that I would soon find them.

I had looked in the vanity drawers, atop the vanity, on the little throw rug in front of the toe-kick of the vanity, and inside the bowls of each sink.  Upon my return from the kitchen, something on the rug reflected the ceiling light into my eyes.  Yes, it was one of the washers.  What were the odds that it would fall perfectly to reflect the light?  It was God!

I was happy to say the least, but deep inside, I somehow knew it would happen.  I continued to believe God for the other washer when something told me to look in the top drawer one more time.  I had looked twice already.  There it was!  Amazing!  How did I not see it before?

My simple faith held onto the notion that even though I could not see the washers, I believed I would.  This is a small example how faith works.  This extraordinary and wonderful victory of finding the washers touched my heart, which caused me to consider the importance of faith when praying.

I realized that when I pray for something, I should believe with everything in me that God not only hears my prayers, but He desires to bring them to fruition.  I recognized the significance of believing with the same fervency of faith that I had when looking for the washers, knowing that nothing is impossible with God.

Even though I could not see that which I was looking for, the hope of finding the washers was such that I believed God to reveal them.  This is faith, not a boatload of faith, but just enough faith to get the job done.  That’s all we need.  God will do the rest.  We would be amazed at the prayers answered if we trusted God, totally.

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

A man was testing his own level of faith one evening when he looked out the bedroom window and demanded the mountain near his home to be cast into the sea.  He arose the next morning, looked out the window and saw the mountain in the same place it was the night before.  Unenthusiastically, he said, “Just as I expected.”

When we pray, we must pray expecting an answer, not like the man in the story.

(James 1:6-8), “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.”  vs.7 “For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;” vs.8 “he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”

We need to encourage ourselves to believe that the Lord cares about the smallest things in our life—even two, tiny washers.  Jesus wants us to ask God, in faith believing, for the things we have need of.

(John 14:13-14), “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son”  vs.14 “If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.”

When we let faith arise, we will be amazed at the closeness we feel to our heavenly Father.  We will experience His love as He pours blessing after blessing into our heart.  He indeed wants us to experience an abundant life through His Son, Jesus.  This comes as we walk by faith.

(John 7:38), “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

(Luke 11:9-13), “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”  vs.10 “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”  vs.11 “If a son asks for bread from any father among  you, will he give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?  vs.12 “Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?”  vs.13 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” 

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

Self Assessment

On occasion, I take my wife to a nearby facility where she works out to stay healthy.  I don’t mind waiting in the car, because it gives me time to put a few thoughts on paper that I can share with you and others. 

It is always exciting to explore my mind to see what God is saying.  I never know what I am going to write about until the moment I allow my consciousness to discover new, perspective insight.  It is nice to relax and reflect upon God and His goodness in the quietness of thoughts without the intrusion of hustle and bustle living.

I parked in front of a tutoring center and spotted a sign in the window, “Free Diagnostic Assessment.”  I immediately began to assess my relationship with God and concluded that it could be better, comparing my current level of enthusiasm to when I first became a Christian. 

I considered and remembered well the affection I had for God and hurting people after having a born-again experience.  I would often say aloud, “You and Me, right God,” while looking upward, and in my heart I would sense the words, “That’s right son, you and Me.”

I love God and have made up my mind to serve Him, but like other Christians that have been in the way for any length of time, it is easy to get caught up in hobbies and non-essential activities that waste time.  It’s like wasting precious water washing down a driveway or sidewalk.  Once it runs to the street it’s impossible to regain the loss.

Not using time wisely also reminds me of flushing an outdated, 5 gallon toilet; wasting water with each flush rather than switching to an improved, low flow, 1.5 gallon toilet. 

Not wasting natural resources, like water, is important to our physical wellbeing just as spiritual health is derived from godly living and not wasting time. 

Careless use of water is reflected in the bill that a person must pay each month for unrestrained usage.  Likewise, when we waste time with trivial, unimportant activities rather than being involved with the things of God, this casual disregard is revealed in one’s behavior, the manner in which they treat others, and a dilatory attitude relative to God’s work. 

If a person neglects spending time in God’s Word or praying, tiredness of motivation sets in.  It is not long before a lax, non-involved attitude develops.  The passion they once had when they first met the Lord begins to wean.  But meditating on God’s grace and mercy, while helping others, keep our spirit fresh and alive.

Wasting time is like a person that drives erratically on the freeway.   “Peddle to the metal” was a term used by teenagers in my youth.  Flooring the accelerator peddle to get around one more car is silly and childish, not only for safety reasons, but wasting gas is foolish with the high cost of fuel these days.

Humanity is given a limited amount of time to develop good habits and accomplish something for the kingdom of God.  My desire is to hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” when I enter heaven.

The aging process is somewhat humorous if you think about it.  An adolescent can hardly wait until adulthood, which seems afar off on the horizon to them.  I know this, because I thought it would never arrive when I was a lad.  Now that it has, I cannot believe how quickly my life has zipped by when reflecting on past experiences.

I can remember my dad saying, “It seems the older I get the faster the years go.”  How true it is.  When I assess earlier periods of involvement in matters relating to Christ, I am reminded of the importance of being connected with other Christians of like faith, and maintaining a shinning testimony so that those looking for peace and contentment can see the Lord in my words and deeds.

Witnessing to those that need the Lord, involvement in church activities and outreaches, raising children in a godly environment, treating a spouse with love and respect, doing unto others as we expect to be treated, and loving God with all our heart are just a few examples that take place through the born-again experience.  I want others to possess the same joy I have.  Jesus Christ is the answer.

Age is just a number.  No matter how old a person is does not negate the need to assess their relationship with God the Father.  Everything else finds its rightful place when God is placed before all things.  He should be first on the list of desires and relationships.

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

The definition of assessment is: “the evaluation or estimation of the nature, quality, or ability of someone or something”

Looking at my reflection in a mirror and asking, “How do I stack up,” opens my eyes as to what is needed to draw closer to God.  A willingness to change habits and routines opens a channel, a strait that allows God to help me grow in Him. 

When a person truly wants God’s will in their life, things have a way of working out for them.  God opens doors that no one can shut, and closes doors that cannot be opened.  Trusting in the Lord brings calmness and peace to one’s soul.

My father-in-law believed that we are in God’s will when we accept Jesus as Lord, and then finding direction comes through prayer.  Prayer opens the doors of every kind of opportunity, which is revealed as we seek God’s will for our life.  If a door closes, God opens another one more suitable to meet the need.

Are you looking for an open door to step through?  Seek God’s face with this prayer, “Not my will Lord, but Your will be done.”  You will be overjoyed at what God does. 

If you are unhappy with your present status at work, for example, the Lord can give you contentment where you are, or He may choose to open doors that no man or woman can close, if another job is your aspiration.  The solution is this; make sure it is God’s will that you step through the door, because His perfect will is what we should be asking for, not our own.

God is able to change situations and/or people at your present employment to bring harmony and contentment in the workplace if that is what’s needed.  Opening our hands and allowing God the Father to work out the problem, rather than leaning upon our own understanding of things, brings resolutions.

God desires the very best for His children and will act accordingly if we don’t get ahead of Him.  His timing is perfect in all things.  The sooner a person realizes this, less stress is manifested.  There is rest in the Lord when we learn not to get ahead of His plan for our life.

Things may not always be as bad as we assess them to be.  I am thankful that God is still on the throne, because I was having problems with a couple of other employees, while working at this certain firm.  They were unbearable to work with.  I remember complaining to my dad about the situation, and I recall his exact words… “Perhaps it’s you.”

I didn’t want to hear this, but nevertheless, I did a self-assessment and found that he was right.  My personality was flawed.  I was strong willed and headstrong—my way or the highway.

Being a new Christian, I still had some rough edges that the Holy Spirit was helping me overcome.  With His intervention and prayer, I did some soul searching and changed my attitude.  Things leveled out at work and happiness prevailed.  It was a great learning experience how to trust God. 

(Jeremiah 29:11-13), “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.”  vs.12 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”  vs.13 “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd