Nevertheless the Lord raised up judges, who saved them from those who plundered them.

Judges 2:16 MLB

Gaze into the mirror of My Word—and see yourself there. Like My people Israel, you go round and round in the vicious circle of obedience, rebellion, heartbreak, repentance, forgiveness, fresh start, obedience, rebellion, heartbreak…

Every time you wander after so-called gods, you are disappointed. Everywhere you turn, everything goes wrong. Without God, life falls apart. In your despair, you cry out for heaven’s  deliverance.

Because of My eternal covenant, I have compassion for you. I freed you from sin’s slavery to bring you to the promised land of rich spiritual life. My Word is as good as I am—I will never, in any situation, take back a single word I have said. I will not break My promise. I have always loved you and I always will. My faithful love endures forever. I hold you in omnipotent hands, so no force can wrench you from My care. I am Love—my heart will not let Me give up on you or let you go.

In spite of your recidivism—chronic, habitual relapse into sin—My steadfast love is rock steady. You are changeable and erratic in your devotion to Me; however, I am unvaryingly faithful to you.

Let My unchangeableness inspire you to greater loyalty. Hold your head high, march in step with My Holy Spirit, and live enthusiastically for Me. Continue to trust Me. Persist in serving Me. Rest assured that nothing you do in My Name wastes time.

You are sinful—nevertheless, I am your Savior. When you cry out for pardon, I rescue you from despair. When you acknowledge transgression, I am faithful to cleanse you of every wrong. When I see the trouble you are in, My heart goes out to you and My hand rescues you. My mercy has no boundary. Rebellion does not cancel redemption. In spite of everything you do, I forgive.

You are aware of your corrupt nature. You have experienced My kindness and patience with you. You have learned you can conquer temptation by relying on Me. Let these facts spur you on to aim for Christlikeness. When you wander from My side, listen for your Gentle Shepherd’s voice leading you to return to righteous paths.

Heaven’s nevertheless of grace infinitely exceeds your sin. No matter how you misbehave, My love is never the less.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

devotional based on day 121 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

If you are unwilling to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve.

But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.

Joshua 24:15 NLT

It seems less than desirable to some people to serve Me. Like Ruth’s sister-in-law, they revert to their former gods. I challenge you to be like Ruth, insisting on staying with her mother-in-law in Israel. Live near Me in the holy land of the broken heart. Desire nothing in life more than honoring your Creator in your thoughts, words, and deeds. I am the Holy One—reflect My holiness in all you are.

No matter what idols others may choose, give Me full control—gladly follow Me as your Perfect Tour Guide. Listen carefully to the voice of your Shepherd—tune out voices of contemporary rivals. I am the Ardent God—I brook no rivals. No other Savior exists—false gods of the heart rob Me of the supreme allegiance I alone deserve. Resolutely turn away from idols and give your heart unreservedly to Me, the One and Only True God.

Counterfeit gods of sexual lust, selfish greed, and head-swelling self-importance are evil influences that clamor to take charge of your will. Why be preoccupied with physical gratification and human applause, when I offer you a river of infinite joy? Why wander about in a ghetto of poverty and loneliness, when I have prepared a luxurious mansion for you in My eternal city of hope? Why live beneath your means spiritually?

I repeatedly confirm My affection for you. I demonstrate My faithfulness and power in life’s changing seasons. I reveal My wisdom in My Word. I reach out to

you in friendship and offer to guide you by My Spirit. Toss idols—trust the Infinite. Put away the dearest idols you have known and make the noble choice to serve Me wholeheartedly—today.

Do not waver in opinions about Me—worship Me with conviction. Do not just silently mull over religious ideas—publicly voice your beliefs. Quit dabbling in sin—get serious about holiness. Recommit yourself to love Me, the Living Lord, and leave lesser gods. Rededicate yourself to lead your family and friends to serve Me and set aside tawdry substitutes. Treasure the Eternal, not the ersatz!

Give Me undivided allegiance, and I will sculpt your attitudes and reactions to be Christlike. Stay focused on Jesus, and you will inspire others to energetically run with you in the Faith Marathon. Example is the only way to influence others—by My grace, set the pace.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Devotional based on day 120 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

All the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel came true.

Joshua 21:45 NLT

I promise you My Presence. You can always count on My constant companionship. I accompany you every heartbeat—every hour, every day, your lifetime on earth, every phase of your journey, eternally. In sunshine and in shadow, I am closer to you than your hands and feet, nearer than your breathing. Enjoy the pleasure of My company.

I promise you forgiveness. Acknowledge your sins to Me, and rest assured of My faithfulness and mercy to purify you of every wrong. Admit your personal wrongdoing, and state your sincere intention to turn away from evil. You have been pardoned in response to repentance, time and time again. When you trust in the good works of Jesus on the cross, I transform a depressed dirge into a freedom song. Let your heart sing.

I promise you deep and enduring peace of mind—unlike temporary peace the world offers. My Tranquil Spirit will calm your troubled heart in every circumstance, no matter how stressful. Earth life will bring wave after wave of heartache, but you will not drown. You have enjoyed My comfort day after day. Take heart—I still rule the waves on life’s high seas. Your small boat will not sink—I am at the helm. Do not panic—rest in the arms of the Captain. Relax.

I promise to take care of your everyday needs. My Son did not die and rise from the dead so you could just get by. You have enjoyed My lavish hospitality through the years; you have never gone hungry and you never will. Bow your head and say grace. Celebrate.

I promise to strengthen you to face every situation. I will counsel and encourage you. Skies may not always be blue, but I will walk with you through the rain. I will empower you to obey My orders, survive every difficulty, and be ready for whatever happens. You have enjoyed many victories in conflict with spiritual enemies. Every time you have depended on Me to conquer temptation, you have won. Every time you have tried it on your own, you have lost. Success is My way; failure is yours. Seek My strength in prayer, and win against sin.

I promise you heaven. I am preparing a glorious place for you, an environment of untarnished beauty and undying joy. Until then, do not let disappointments throw you—paradise is just around the corner. The future is as bright as My promises. Trust Me—everything will turn out right.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Devotional based on day 119  of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Jesus Calming the Storm by Rembrandt

The Perfect Storm Shelter

By Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Now tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed Moses.

Joshua 20:2

I am your Storm Shelter from guilt—walls of pardon around My city of salvation keep you safe and secure from the Accuser. Despite your best efforts to resist temptation, you sometimes give in and are filled with remorse. Find consolation in Jesus, your Defense Counsel. When the Devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future! Confess your sins to Me—depend on Me to forgive you. Even if your heart condemns you, I will not. In the storm of self-reproach, hide in your Savior.

I am your Storm Shelter from worry—walls of My promises around My city of hope keep you safe and secure from anxiety. Beneath quicksand circumstances, I am the Solid Rock. Life’s roller coaster will not throw you—I am riding right alongside you in all its unpredictable twists and turns, so do not let fear get the best of you. Real trust in Me builds confidence as you encounter time’s vicissitudes on the approach to your eternal destination. Today will not change who I was yesterday; tomorrow I will be the same. I have always loved you—and I always will. In the night of fear, take refuge in faith.

I am your Storm Shelter from temptation—walls of power around My city of grace keep you safe and secure from assault. Be careful that you do not allow false gods of the heart to steal allegiance from Me. Lust for physical gratification, the urge to buy all you desire, conceit based on tangible possessions—the range of temptation—will all ultimately fade into oblivion; but those who live My way will endure eternally. You can only imagine what it will be like when Jesus returns. Until the golden dawn, live purely to prove you are Mine. Battling the evil one, wield a faith shield.

I am your Storm Shelter from doubt—walls of paradise around My city of heaven will keep you safe and secure from Abaddon. Because I live forever, the real you will never die. Because I love you, you are perfectly safe in My arms. I freely care for you, so you can live carefree. I am praying for you, so you can take it easy. You and I are inseparable. In the shadows of uncertainty, take cover in Love. The Mighty Fortress is great enough to protect you whatever happens. Even if you find yourself in the middle of a perfect storm—overwhelmed by a combination of circumstances making your heart palpitate with anxiety—rest assured that heaven is ready for any emergency. However rough the storms may get, seek asylum in My heart and remain inside the walls—enjoy the pleasure of My company.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Devotional based on day 118 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Killing Time—Injuring Eternity

By Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Joshua addressed the People of Israel: “How long are you going to sit around on your hands,

putting off taking possession of the land that GOD, the God of your ancestors, has given you?”

JOSHUA 18:3 THE MESSAGE

Frequently we delay doing the right thing. It is not that we are ignorant of what we should be doing; our sin is procrastination. We keep waiting for “the right time.” Now is the right time! Today is the day of salvation; today is also the day of service. Here and now is all we have. This is a workday—we should not report late!

Putting off tasks that seem overwhelming or disagreeable shows lack of discipline, careless use of time, and disobedience to God. When we are tempted to postpone getting into action by substituting good intentions—we should concentrate on high priority tasks, work as a team with others, and seek encouragement from fellow members of the church.

Our head may be filled with knowledge, but our heart is sometimes slow to act on what we know. Wasting time grieves the heart of God.

I do not think God is impressed by our biblical IQ, if it is not matched by a high spiritual “I do.” Whatever we intend to do for God, we should do it today! It’s time to wake up and follow through on our noble dreams! Here are some practical ways to translate our resolutions into practical deeds—demonstrate love to our family; phone our friends to cheer them up; write a note to someone going through hard times to express concern.

We should not allow our lesser goals to overshadow the kingdom of God—to do so would make us a scatterbrain. After we make sure our ambition and aim are sincere, we must then swiftly obey God’s will. It is high time to passionately, prayerfully, intelligently, and energetically serve our Creator, Redeemer, and Friend. We need to quit staring up the steps and start stepping up the stairs.

Often we allow distractions to hinder our commitment to God. Rather than focusing on claiming our spiritual inheritance, we allow peripheral issues to sidetrack us. Trivial pursuits occupying our time will not matter a century from today. But who we are and what we do for heaven’s sake will matter millenniums from now—and beyond.

Henry David Thoreau was right in Walden—we cannot kill time without injuring eternity.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

devotion based on day 117 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

When Joshua was an old man, the Lord said to him,

“You are growing old, and much land remains to be conquered.”

JOSHUA 13:1 NLT

You have a lot of room to grow in communion with Me. Everything else is rubbish compared to the priceless gain of intimate relationship to Me. You have known Me a long time, but you still do not know Me like I would like you to. If you have prioritized anything above life’s noblest goal, now is the time to reorder your values. Trash all your trivial pursuits, and treasure friendship with your Creator.

You have plenty of room to grow in consecration. You have experienced a victory here and there over the years, but you still need to draw on more of the vitality of Christ’s resurrection in your everyday life. Experiencing His resurrection power will move you beyond easy street, dead-end ideas of your society. Before you can celebrate robust life, you must die to sin. Crucify your evil ways and count on My infinite power to vanquish every entrenched bad habit.

You have much room to grow in Christlikeness. You have followed Me fairly closely along the way, but you still need to concentrate on your supreme ambition—to humbly walk in the footsteps of Jesus in your attitudes and actions. Compare yourself with Me, and you will realize the chasm between your ideal self and the person you actually are. You have good intentions but do not always follow through. You become irritable when things do not go your way. You are sometimes judgmental, self-righteous, woebegone, proud, anxious, and egocentric. I know you like an open book. Yet I still love you, and I still have plans for you. Someday you will be like My Son; until then, follow His example. When you are tempted to quit the struggle, gaze on the mysterious figure on the cross and return to your assigned task. My fondest dream for you is that you become like Christ—I am using every circumstance to sculpt you into a replica of Perfection.

Much land in your life territory remains to be conquered—mountains of conceit, islands of selfishness, valleys of discouragement, rivers of impatience, plateaus of ritualism, and deserts of criticism. Claim all the promised land of the inheritance I have staked out for you!

With the single-mindedness of an Olympic athlete in training, focus on drawing nearer to Jesus. Reflect His likeness as you live out your God-designed identity. Go for the gold.

Do more than grow old—grow up!

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 115 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The following is a list of the kings Joshua and the Israelite armies defeated on the west side of the Jordan, from Baal-gad in the valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which leads up to Seir.

JOSHUA 12:7 NLT

Israel had many kings to conquer, but with the King of kings fighting on their side, they celebrated one victory after another. You, too, have many enemies, but when I reign in your heart you can beat the Devil. He is the god of the world, but he has no claim on Me and mine. My chosen people had many territories to vanquish, and so do you—the hill country of pride, foothills of discouragement, lonely valleys, plateaus of dull routine, wilderness of confusion, and the Negev of desolation.

Fragmentation is conquered in the light of faith. Satan would love to ruin your life by tearing your wholehearted allegiance away from Me. But I have given My word never to desert you, guaranteeing it by My Holy Spirit signature. Your heart is My home—rest assured I will never move away. I reign as Sovereign of your will, holding you together.

Pessimism is conquered in the light of My promises. Though Satan is your greatest foe, he is already defeated by My grand victory over death, hell, and the grave. I will have the last word. I have great plans for tomorrow. Listen for My future melody and dance My faith dance each step of the way. Count on Me, and finish My confidence course.

Selfishness is conquered in the light of sacrifice. The master of evil would love to ruin your relationships, but My love is greater than his disruptive hate. Imitate My loving lifestyle, and find fulfillment.

The Devil is conquered in the Light of the Divine. Do not get overconfident, napping in your castle of pride. Be on the alert for attacks from the evil one. Satan is a roaring lion constantly on the prowl, searching for a victim to shred. Deal decisively with the adversary of your soul, and stay strong in your faith. Remember to hold My hand as you make your way through the jungle. Cage the lion by yielding control of your impulses and emotions to Me. Let the Lion of Judah’s tribe reign as undisputed King of your heart—be a victor, not a victim!

I am Lord of the whole earth, and I give My warriors courage and strength to endure hardship and combat evil. Because I am fighting with you on the front lines, there is no need to be afraid. Whatever foe you may face, I am stronger. Ultimate triumph is Mine—linked to Me by faith, it is yours. Counteract battle fatigue in the energy of My Spirit—march on in heaven’s victory parade!

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Devotional based on day 114 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

S-i-n spells Trouble

They piled a great heap of stones over Achan, which remains to this day.

That is why the place has been called the Valley of Trouble ever since.

Joshua 7:26 NLT

     Covetousness always results in calamity. A Babylonian robe is no match for the robe of My righteousness. Silver and gold rusts away, unlike heavenly treasures. Sin is never worth the price you have to pay—it brings disaster, defeat, destruction, disease, and death.

     How beautiful is the other side of the coin! When people seek Me, I transform the valley of trouble into a gateway of hope. I strengthen all who humbly turn from their sinful nature’s urging to follow My perfect lead.

     Joshua’s advice to Achan is My advice to you—honor Me by telling the truth; own up to sin against Me and quit hiding from My love. I solemnly charge you to be honest with Me. This is no flippant matter. It is painful business.

     If you are truthful, you must admit you are guilty of many sins—particularly greed. Achan-like, you often want things you do not need. You have allowed materialism to get the upper hand in your life. Trivial pursuit is a game you play—a game with no real winners.

     Sin always spells trouble. On the other hand, coming clean with Me spells triumph. Confession is good for your soul. Be open and honest with Me, and I will forgive and cleanse you of all impurity. Toss your transgression on the garbage pile; follow My perfect plan—only then will you experience sweet victory.

     Sin invariably gets you in trouble. You are fooling yourself if you think you can ignore Me and get away with it. You cannot break My law—it breaks you. The rule of the harvest is universal, without exception—you always reap what you sow. Every thought, word, and deed is a boomerang with great accuracy. You can avoid distress if you resist dabbling in sin. You can live triumphantly relying on My sanctifying power.

     You decide how you will live—with predictable results.

     Rebel and experience ruin. Repent and rejoice. Follow a siren song of selfishness and sing the blues. Live in tune with My Spirit and dance the jig of joy. The choice is yours.

Gentle Whispers from Eternity © 2013 by Johnny R. Almond

Book available on Amazon

The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

LUKE 19:10 MLB

I could have saved Myself a lot of trouble, if I had stayed by My Father’s side; instead, I made Myself nothing, donned the garb of a slave, and died a criminal’s death on a Roman cross. Skull Hill was a long way from glory. I went to hell so you would not have to. I became a servant so you could avoid self-destructiveness. I was crucified so you could be changed for the better. I was deserted so you could enjoy the pleasure of My company. I became the Son of Man so you could become a child of God. I died in your place so you could live in Mine. I came to the world not just to challenge you to seek higher goals—I came to offer you My forgiveness and mercy and grace.

I could have saved Myself from physical death had I descended the cross; instead, I saved believers from spiritual death by staying on the cross. I condescended to save you from sin’s penalty, power, and presence. Heartfelt faith in the Savior and public confession of allegiance to Me sets you on the road to heaven. If you have taken this first step of trust in Me, you are free of guilt—no longer on death row, no more condemned to torment! When your old life of sin is buried with Christ, you live a new, free life. One day you will be like Me—this is My dream and your destiny. Salvation is a process I began in your heart—I intend to complete it.

I did not leave heaven to seek smug legalists and self-righteous snobs—but sinners who are painfully aware of their moral failure. If I had saved Myself from humiliation, you could not be saved from hell. My heart goes out to all people—I died for the sins of the entire world. Religionists who think they are good enough have no interest in Me. Humble souls understand My purpose—smart-alecks are clueless.

Glory will fill your soul when you know why heaven visited earth.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 318 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

LUKE 19:10 MLB

I could have saved Myself a lot of trouble, if I had stayed by My Father’s side; instead, I made Myself nothing, donned the garb of a slave, and died a criminal’s death on a Roman cross. Skull Hill was a long way from glory. I went to hell so you would not have to. I became a servant so you could avoid self-destructiveness. I was crucified so you could be changed for the better. I was deserted so you could enjoy the pleasure of My company. I became the Son of Man so you could become a child of God. I died in your place so you could live in Mine. I came to the world not just to challenge you to seek higher goals—I came to offer you My forgiveness and mercy and grace.

I could have saved Myself from physical death had I descended the cross; instead, I saved believers from spiritual death by staying on the cross. I condescended to save you from sin’s penalty, power, and presence. Heartfelt faith in the Savior and public confession of allegiance to Me sets you on the road to heaven. If you have taken this first step of trust in Me, you are free of guilt—no longer on death row, no more condemned to torment! When your old life of sin is buried with Christ, you live a new, free life. One day you will be like Me—this is My dream and your destiny. Salvation is a process I began in your heart—I intend to complete it.

I did not leave heaven to seek smug legalists and self-righteous snobs—but sinners who are painfully aware of their moral failure. If I had saved Myself from humiliation, you could not be saved from hell. My heart goes out to all people—I died for the sins of the entire world. Religionists who think they are good enough have no interest in Me. Humble souls understand My purpose—smart-alecks are clueless.

Glory will fill your soul when you know why heaven visited earth.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 318 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Marching orders

Then he gave orders to the people:

“March around the city, and the armed men will lead the way in front of the Ark of the Lord.”

JOSHUA 6:7 NLT

You sometimes feel like finding an easy chair. The last thing in the world you want is to get involved in a battle with Satan. You are not burned out, but you are getting warm. If you were totally honest with Me, you would admit more than anything you would just like a little R & R.

At other times you are inclined to retreat far from the front line. That can upset you and make you feel guilty. You are afraid of conflict with evil powers. You are frustrated with pressures of too many irons in the fire and mountains of responsibility. You are not quite ready to give up, but you would like to hide in a cave somewhere and be an Essene for a while. Qumran is not far from Jericho.

You cannot be on perpetual vacation and cannot quit the struggle—I have My hand on your shoulder. I commissioned you to serve Me. I am your Commander in Chief, so you must advance. Here are My marching orders for you—Take the message of My love to your world; tell everyone who will listen that Jesus has paid the penalty for sin, and all those who will believe in Him can be forgiven and live fully and forever.

Let My resurrection power keep your faith in motion. Do not rely on personal skill or resolve to do heaven’s serious business—depend on My infinite strength. I give opportunities to share the Good News. This is no time for a nap. Obedience is your job. Results are Mine.

Soldiering is never easy. Combat is no picnic. But I will encourage you day after day. Don My armor to counteract Satan’s strategies. Wear the truth belt in a dishonest, conniving world. Lace up running shoes of eagerness to tell Love’s never-ending story. Raise the faith shield to extinguish fiery arrows of temptation. Keep your mind occupied with My constant saving work in your life. Wield My Spirit Sword to slay evil wherever it rears its ugly head. In every battle, pray as you go.

When your courage disappears, My compassion will sustain you. When you are exhausted, I will reinforce you for the fray. Run confidently in the Hope Marathon.Walk consistently in your daily routines. Fly high courageously in life’s great challenges. The world’s king and his hordes are no match for the King of kings. Before you fight him, claim My power. Then you can celebrate victory even before the battle.

Forward, march!

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 112 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

As Joshua approached the city of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man facing him with sword in hand.

Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you friend or foe?”

“Neither one,” he replied. “I am commander of the Lord’s army.”

JOSHUA 5:13-14 NLT

I am the Omniscient God—I know everything about tomorrow. Nothing is hidden from My eyes. You have no idea what will happen next. You may be on the brink of a vicious conflict. For all you know, you may face a ferocious battle with satanic forces in the hours that are directly ahead of you. Basking in the success of crossing the Jordan, you may not realize that Jericho is your next “impossible” challenge. You are in suspense. Satan would love to defeat you. He is a roaring lion, on the prowl for an unsuspecting victim to shred with his malicious claws. Look around and carefully stay alert for potential combat with evil.

I am the Omnipotent God—I can do everything. Nothing can withstand My power. By My Spirit Sword, I am able to slay every enemy. Open your eyes to see My protective chariots of fire encircling you. Let Me sensitize your conscience to teach you to rely on My Truth. Be encouraged by knowledge that spiritual warriors on the side of right outnumber evil forces on the dark side. When it begins to look like there is no way you can ever win against sin, remember the Holy Spirit reigning in you is greater than the hellacious spirit ruining the world. I am your only hope of conquering evil, but I am enough. I can calm your anxious spirit, quiet your restless heart, and help you placidly navigate the noisy world—if you will just let Me. Be conscientious, not careless. Trust, do not tremble. Be courageous, not cowardly. Sing, do not sigh. Soar, do not sink. Be victorious, not victimized. The time will come when I will stomp Satan under My feet. Let the vision of perfect peace invigorate your heart. Your Savior will conquer sin. Look up and cheerfully be sure of My unlimited power.

I am the Omnipresent God—I am everywhere. I am here. I am for you. I orchestrate every situation for your good. I chose you eons before your birth to ultimately become like My Son. I charmed you to My side and made you Mine forever. Glory will dawn, I promise. Look ahead and confidently anticipate triumph over wrong. I am on your side, so you are on the verge of victory.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 111 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Christmas comes like an avalanche—we’re overwhelmed with a calendar crammed with social events, a long shopping list for family and friends, and a feeling that there’s no way we can get everything done in time. Why does this seem to happen every year? Could it be that we’ve let our American culture’s materialistic focus replace a heartfelt celebration of joy at the thought of God sending us a Savior?

By the time we reach the Christmas Eve candlelight service and sing “all is calm…”, nothing is. Frenetic hectivity has stolen the shalom God offers us. We’re buried under cold impersonal commercialism that focuses on gift-giving without much consideration of giving ourselves. We’re paralyzed by icy individualism that insists we get what we want for Christmas, without much thought at all of what Jesus might want for Christmas.

I don’t mean to come across as a cantankerous Scrooge or a bad-tempered killjoy. I just hope we don’t miss Christmas. If we’re not careful, we can get so busy that that the season passes over us like a plane at night or in the clouds, heard but not really seen. 

Christmas is a season of hope—pointing to the Savior able to give us the contentment we need, sweeter than Santa Claus’ promise to bring us more things we want that will later be tossed in a dumpster. Merchants have practically stolen the season by their message of “Buy, buy, buy”. Even so, this season is about God, who sent His Son into this world so that the world through him might be saved.

We naturally think of this time as a season of receiving. Think of what we can receive from God—salvation from our sins, a sense of belonging to Jesus, a grand purpose that makes life an adventure, and work to do in His Kingdom. All of this is part of the hope that is ours from our relationship with Christ.

We also think of this season as a time of giving. What can we give to God this year to express our faith and obedience? What can we give His church to spread the message about Christ and His love? What about giving our hearts to Christ—better than a shepherd’s lamb or a wise man’s part? In the near future we’ll be purchasing a new church sign to inform drivers of more than 9,000 vehicles driving by this building every day what we’re about as the Lord’s people. Maybe you’d like to make a donation to help raise money for this special project.

Let’s celebrate Christmas God’s way this year—thanking heaven for eternal hope, expressing love to our friends on this journey of faith, and giving sincere praise to God.  Paul’s prayer in Romans 15:3 is my prayer for you—I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

If we celebrate Christmas properly, it will not feel like an avalanche, but a gentle snowfall—reflecting hope from beyond the stars, echoing peace we have from our relationship with Jesus, and sparkling joy like the pleasure of the company of Christ, the perfect gift.

Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Thanks Living

By Pastor Johnny R. Almond

If you present your peace offering as a thanksgiving offering ...

Leviticus 7:12 NLT

I give you faith. I charm you to Myself and I take great pleasure in lavishing kindness on you. Faith is the key that started My powerful grace engine in your life. I know your egocentricity, judgmentalism, pessimism, and impatience—yet I still love you unconditionally. With your first step of childlike faith, I made you everlastingly Mine. Be eternally grateful. Give Me credit for all the good in your life. Do more than give thanks—live thanks.

I give you Myself. I engineer circumstances in your best interest. You can count on My Invariable Presence. I am your Permanent Address and the Solution to your greatest needs. I am All You Ever Really Need in Life. Here is My formula for incomprehensible peace—pray about everything, tell Me your needs, say thanks for all I do; peace flooding your mind and heart, relax.

I give you family. To counteract loneliness, I give you a home. Husband, wife, son, daughter, mother, father, brother, sister—all are My idea. Unique personalities enrich life. Celebrate Love by loving.

I give you friends. Friends are two bodies with one soul; the church of Christ is composed of millions of individuals with one heart. Offer thanks by being loyal to teammates in fair and foul weather.

I give you joy. Marvel at beauty. Treasure My Eternal Word. Pay attention to human voices. Relish food. Dance to the rhythm of Life. Smell the wake-up call of coffee. Feel friendly hugs of love. Let My Holy Spirit control your instincts. Make heart music for My listening enjoyment. Sing grateful hymns for companions to hear. Enjoy!

I give you purpose to be here after. You are My work of art. Focus on honoring your Master, and experience life’s highest significance.

I set your table with daily bread. I give you all you need from day to day as you prioritize My kingdom. Bow your head—say grace.

I give you forever. The Power that raised Jesus from the grave guarantees your beautiful and bright destiny. No artist can paint heaven; no composer can write its lovely symphony. I give you hints of glory—sunrises, flowers, butterflies, and springs. If a dove feather-brushed Earth on round trips to the nearest star until the planet you call home wore away to nothing, eternity would just be dawning—so would your carol of praise.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 63 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

God over All

The LORD your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below.
JOSHUA 2:11 NLT

God is God of all. He is the Transcendent God of the highest heavens, incalculably and unimaginably distant from the planet you call home. He is also the Immanent, down-to-Earth God, intimately closer to us than our hands and feet and breath. He is the God of the abstract and of the concrete. Wisdom rethinks the philosophical and accomplishes the practical.

God is God in all. He is God of eternity and the hereafter. He is also God of time and the here and now. Faith counts on the glorious hereafter He plans for you—and pauses to ponder what we are here after.

God is God through all. He is God of our ecstatic highs and of our agonizing lows. He is God of our mountaintop celebrations and our valley heartbreaks. Hope clings to God as we ride life’s roller coaster taking us through our days toward our destiny.

God is God after all. He is God of heavenly worship above and of earthly worry and weariness below. Humility reverences God as the Absolute Sovereign of the universe.

God is God to all. He is God of his holy angels and of our human associates. He directs cherubim and seraphim; He brings the right people into our lives to help and encourage us. Obedience responds in service in angelic fashion, faithfully and kindly ministering to people of faith.

God is God above all. He is God of incomprehensible mystery and of infinite meaning. We are not totally, irrevocably responsible for everything—that is God’s job. Uncommon sense resigns as general manager of the universe.

God is God for all. He is God of orbiting planets and of ordinary people. He directs traffic patterns of constellations and holds together trusting human hearts. Kindness relates to people in their divinely designed orbits.

God is God over all. He is God of intergalactic stars and of imperfect saints. Love permits the One who breathed galaxies into existence to reign over all the kingdoms of our life. Believing God is in charge, saints struggle on.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 110 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

A Prayer for Election Day

By Pastor Johnny Almond

Lord of the nations,

After a long and tiring presidential race with vicious contention, intense debate and sad divisiveness;    with election day approaching in only a few hours — we approach You, Almighty God, with a heartfelt prayer for the nation we love, the country of our birth.  

Wondering what turnaround it might take to restore peace and quiet, justice and kindness to our land, we recall a verse from a very old Book we’ve read and heard quoted countless times—

If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways,then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land. [2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV]

Could this if-then formula, conscientiously practiced by people of faith, make America great—and good—again?

Are these ancient words powerful enough to transform society by changing hearts submissive to your Holy Spirit?

Would widespread application of this verse help us be better neighbors, cancel selfishness with sacrifice, and make us stronger together by replacing the love of power with the power of love?

Lord Jesus Christ, called by your name we search our souls and ask ourselves personal questions—Are we willing to humbly dismount our high horse of judgmentalism and realize we’re not God? Are we sincerely hoping for your will to be done in the results of this national election? Are we seeking your face, or just trying to save our own? Are we convicted of our own wrongdoing and shortcomings, and willing to repent of evil in our lives?

Heavenly Father, please hear our prayer and bless us by forgiving our sins and restoring our land to be

a nation of citizens free from fear, free from want, free to speak our mind, and free to worship our God.

In the name of the One on whose shoulders rests the government of the universe, the Prince of Peace, Amen.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Moses was 120 years old when he died,

yet his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever.

Deuteronomy 34:7 NLT

The number of our years is increasing. Gray hairs are multiplying, and bodily aches humiliate more often. It is wise to pause now and then to deeply consider the meaning of our life. With heaven’s help, we can grow older gracefully.

Though our physical eyesight may deteriorate, our vision of eternal realities can grow more perceptive day by day. It is life’s noblest goal to know God more intimately—to develop closer familiarity with Christ, so our vigor will not weaken and our spiritual eyesight will not dim. We cannot see our Savior now, yet we love and trust him. His Presence in our life brings laughter and singing. Life is imperfectly focused now, but the day will come when we will see with perfect clarity. Until that glorious time of total redemption, we should pray to see the Lord more clearly with each passing day.

Time subtracts from physical stamina as our birthdays add up, but emotional muscles need not atrophy. Relying on God’s unlimited power reinforces us for future challenges. When we encounter aggravation, we should keep in mind that trying times are parentheses in the sentence of life. Adversity is God’s university—we should not withdraw. Time educates for eternity. Trouble is temporary. Heaven’s support is as certain as sunrise. God’s grace is more than enough to see us through the aging process.

God will be our Hiding Place, whatever the threat or trauma. He inspires nocturnal melodies, calms our anxious heart, and strengthens our weary arms when we feel like walking away from heavy responsibilities. When our natural strength is gone, supernatural strength is available. When hard times push us to our knees, we should pray harder. Holding God’s hand, we can walk with a spring in our step.

To live joyfully, we must open the eyes of our heart to see the beauties of the world and God’s loving Providence in our circumstances. To catch a glimpse of the bright tomorrow God has planned, we must let Light beyond light flood our inner being. To accomplish what God placed his hand on our shoulder to do, we must flex our spiritual muscles.

God gives us ambition to implement his commands. He gives us energy and ability to obey his orders. He raised Christ from the grave, and He is able to renew our resolve to please our Creator—never mind our age! As we grow older, with God’s help we can grow bolder.

Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity -- book available on Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 108 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

 Image

 Equilibrium Equation

Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.

Deuteronomy 33:25 KJV

When everything in our world is falling to pieces, if we turn to God we can stay unshakably calm. Life can hurt. Circumstances are sometimes painfully difficult. On earth we will fight many battles—but we can take heart, because we share triumph with Jesus. We are not the first the world ever mistreated; it hated its Creator! We should not be surprised when skeptics misunderstand and ostracize us. In spite of scorn and abuse, we are challenged to remain Christ’s willing subject. The King of hearts reigns mercifully. God is our Eternal Refuge—all is well.

When situations unravel and we feel we’re about to come apart at the seams, we can turn to God and be unflaggingly courageous. Undergirding life’s chaos and confusion are the everlasting arms, so we can let all our worries evaporate in the sunlight of His love. Our Father encircles us with unfailing care, so we are safe and secure. Whatever happens, God will always hold you together.

When our days become a daze, and there are more projects and problems and puzzles than we can handle, we can turn to God and find unlimited capability to carry on. Our life’s highest quest it to walk in Jesus’ steps. Whatever shoes we need, God will provide. He gives running shoes for the faith race so we can keep on when we feel like dropping out, and outrun the tempter. He furnishes steel-toed shoes for heavy construction work to protect us in arduous challenges. He dresses us in dancing shoes so we can worship with exhilaration. He gives us combat boots for spiritual warfare to ensure victory. He outfits us with hiking shoes to climb “impossible” mountains. God works best through us when we sense our weakness. When we rely on him, we find that his grace is all we need.

When daily demands are a balancing act between job, family, exercise, others’ expectations, bill paying, car repairs, unknown future, unexpected emergencies, and a hundred details emerging from our to do list, we can turn to God and know unequaled cheer. Whatever demands and pressures life brings, He is our Strength, so there’s no need to let fear or frustration get the best of us. God gives us what we need right when we need it. We do not have to be overwhelmed by circumstances, when we revel in inner-stances.

Celebrating God’s Presence with every heartbeat—we prayerfully maintain an attitude of gratitude, refuse to extinguish the Spirit Flame, scrupulously avoid evil, learn to really live, and march in step with heaven’s drumbeat.

Counting on God’s guarantee of ultimate victory, we relax.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—book available on Amazon

This devotional based on day 107 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD is the one who goes before you.

He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:8 NLT

We step into the future confidently, knowing there is no surprise to God. God is our Vanguard—so there’s no need to worry about the future. He is already there; He knows what is coming. When tomorrow arrives, He will be there for us.

The Good Shepherd faithfully walks ahead—we listen for My voice and follow His lead. Jesus precedes us, so we can be certain that sunrise will bring strength for all of life’s challenges. He walks ahead of us and shows us the way, one step at a time. We give Christ control of each moment as it comes by deciding to obey Him. We rest in green meadows and by quiet streams by trusting Him unquestioningly even in dark valleys. Whatever the emergency coming our way, heaven is ready.

We step into the future capably, realizing there is no real success without God. God is our Vitality—Center of Gravity in all seasons, Song in sad times, Solid Rock when everything nailed down comes loose, Physician when we are sin-sick, Creator who perfectly understands us, and Almighty God who stands under us.

There’s no need to let shadows intimidate us or let fear unnerve us. Our Father’s eyes watch over sparrows and supervise our journey beyond the stars. In hope, we smile through our tears; by faith, we dance through our troubles.

We step into the future courageously, believing there is no superior force above God. God is our Valor—injecting adrenaline into our timid soul, encouraging us in our nagging doubt. Because of His Presence with us, we can live without terror, cowardice, flinching, dismay, or despondency. All the demons in hell cannot conquer our heart—it is sacred territory, God’s home. We can do all our Master orders through the invigorating power of Christ. We can defeat any spiritual enemy by the protective

love of Jesus, our Shield. Hiding in Ultimate Reality, we sing eternity’s song even when we feel like crying. Focused on the cross, we keep running Faith Marathon even when tempted to drop out.

We step into the future cheerfully, understanding there is no song without God. God is our Vision—Sovereign holding tomorrow in His hands, Meaning behind life’s mysteries, and Highest Dream of our heart. He is the God of Abraham’s moving experiences, Isaac’s laughter, and Jacob’s struggles. He is our Stability in transition, Best Answer to prayer, and Truest Riches. Love blesses us with all we need today and all we will need tomorrow—counting on God’s promises coming true, we keep believing in a bright future.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity – book available from Amazon

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 106 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses.

I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make.

Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live!

Choose to love the Lord your God and to obey him

and commit yourself to him, for he is your life.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT

All the natural laws God instituted, in every part of the universe He created, preach the same sermon and reinforce the same truth—there are inevitable consequences for the personal choices we make. Death inevitably derives from disobedience. Curses accompany carnality. Blessings result from belief. Life cascades from love.

Moral decisions affect emotional, physical, and spiritual health. They impact our future and the welfare of our family. They are critical, not inconsequential. Time and eternity will be colored by what we choose day by day.

If we are obedient, we will choose the Way—walking with Christ in humility and habits. We are challenged to live a life of unselfish love—following Jesus’ example of sacrificial living, not trying to impress but meekly considering others better than us.

If we are wise, we will choose the Truth—walking with Christ in honesty and holiness. We are challenged to live with moral integrity, avoiding evil no matter how it is packaged.

If we are trusting, we will choose the Life—walking with Christ in hope and heaven. We are challenged to celebrate buoyant and eternal life in relationship to God’s Son—purposefully motivated, optimistically anticipating paradise restored, enthusiastically serving, singing the song of hope through long nights, and relying on supernatural strength to see us through every difficulty. Living this way, we do not just exist—we exult!

Is our mind genuinely open and receptive to the Holy Spirit? Are we willing to let the Lord cleanse our soul and teach us to love Him with all our personality and intellect? Can we clearly hear the message of ultimate truth echoing in our heart?

If we turn away from God, there is only bitterness and death. If we obey Him, life in all its fullness is ours.

God never twists our arm; but if we take His hand and hold on for dear life, He will teach us how to live life in all its fullness day after day, year after year—the choice is ours.

Johnny R. Almond

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church - Friends on a Journey of Faith

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity—Scripture Personalized

http://GentleWhispersFromEternity--ScripturePersonalized.com/

This devotional based on day 105 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity