As I was walking along I saw your many altars.

   One had this inscription on it—“To an Unknown God.”

You have been worshiping him without knowing who he is,

                 and now I wish to tell you about him.

                               Acts 17:23 NLT

I am not a founder of a religion—I am the Redeemer.

     On the altar of Calvary, believe Me and know complete salvation.

I am not a teacher of a philosophy—I am the Prince of Peace.

     On the altar of reverence, seek Me and know indefinable serenity.

I am not a charlatan—I am the Wonderful Counselor.

     On the altar of faith, follow Me and know unflinching assurance.

I am not an abstraction—I am the Almighty.

     On the altar of expectation, depend on Me and know graceful strength.

I am not a security blanket—I am the Savior.

     On the altar of repentance, receive Me and know unfailing love.

I am not a concept—I am the Creator.

     On the altar of humility, recognize Me and know ultimate meaning.

I am not a hallucination—I am your Helper.

     On the altar of trust, rely on Me and know unflappable equanimity.

I am not a superstition—I am the Sovereign.

     On the altar of wisdom, learn of Me and know infinite worth.

I am not a fabrication—I am your Friend.

     On the altar of truth, walk with Me and know heavenly compassion.

I am not a lunatic—I am Lord of all.

     On the altar of surrender, give Me your heart and know total freedom.

I am not a creed—I am the Christ.

     On the altar of sincerity, obey Me and know perfect reality.

  © Pastor Johnny R. Almond                

Day 330, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Just as the lightning flashes from the east and shines and is seen   

   as far as the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.     

        Watch [be cautious and active] for you do not know

              in what kind of a day your Lord is coming.

                  Matthew 24:27, 42  AMPLIFIED BIBLE

My return will be evident to skeptics—the end of the world for atheists.  

   Those who thought it would never happen will be convinced—too late.    

   My Presence will be as obvious as lightning lighting up the entire sky.      

   The Second Coming is more than a doctrine—it will really happen.  

   You can count on it—you have My Word.

   The King’s return will be unmistakable.

My return will be exciting to saints—the ecstasy of worship for believers.  

   The King of kings will unite unsettled nations and rule the universe.

   The surprise and shock will be more than many people can bear.

   The Second Coming will bring the future perfect tense I have promised.

   Everything will be transformed for the better when I put My foot down.

   The King’s return will be unimaginably beautiful.

My return will be enlightening to the sincere—

   the encouragement of wonder for the redeemed.

   The triumph of righteousness will obliterate the darkness of evil.

   Constellations will fade in the light of the Bright Morning Star.

   To the lost, My return will mean tragedy—outer darkness with no exit.  

   To the saved, My Second Coming will mean triumph—eternal light.

   The King’s return will bring unending celebration.

My return will be embarrassing to the slothful—

   the exposing of waste to the lazy.

   The unprepared will blush with shame—and cry tears of futile regret.

   The King’s return, to them, will be uncomfortable—to say the least.

Are you surrendered to Me as your King? Then be subject to change!

Are you convinced I am actually going to return? Then live like it!

Are you persuaded you have an interview with Me? Then get ready!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond           

Day 311, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

 This message was kept secret for centuries and generations past,

     but now it has been revealed to his own holy people. 

For it has pleased God to tell his people that

     the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too.  

For this is the secret: Christ lives in you,

     and this is your assurance that you will share in his glory.

     Colossians 1:26-27 NLT

Christ’s promise in your mind is your hope of an eternal destiny of joy.

Christ’s love in your heart is your absolute guarantee of a heavenly home.

Christ’s Spirit in your soul is your personal security you are bound for glory. 

Christ’s presence in your life is your foretaste of glory divine. 

The entire universe with its innumerable galaxies cannot contain God—

     yet God has taken up residence in the hearts of all who welcome His Son.

Because Christ lives in you—

     you can count on inheriting the blessing of sharing in His glorious reign; 

     you have been rescued from the dark side, and live as a child of the Light;

     you have been made a privileged citizen of His eternal Kingdom;

     you have been freed from sin’s addiction and destructiveness;

     you have been forgiven of sin’s guilt, and can face eternity fearlessly.

Certainty of eternal life is not based on doubtful faith, but trusting reliance. 

Promised glory is not mere wishful thinking—God’s promises will materialize. 

Your ultimate destination is a land beyond time, change and decay.

     Heaven on earth will be a deathless, tearless, painless, sinless place.

Looking forward to the ecstasy of infinite glory—

     you are motivated by a changed purpose—Christ, not yourself;

     you anticipate a changed destiny—heaven, not hell;

     you demonstrate a changed lifestyle—holiness, not wickedness.

Identified with Christ, you are victorious over sin and death now;

     and you are destined for unimaginable glory someday—

     more beautiful than any painting can picture,

     more joyous than any symphony can convey,

     more magnificent than any literature can describe.  

Roman generals returning from victory were greeted by a great procession

     lining streets and cheering, vanquished troops marching in chains,

     strange animals brought from subjugated lands, musicians and singers    

    celebrating conquests, his children robed in white riding trace horses,

     a slave riding with him in his chariot holding a crown for him

     and whispering in his ear, “All glory is fleeting.” And so it is. 

The one exception is Christ’s glory awaiting you—it is not too good to last.

An eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison will reward your faith. 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                               

Gentle Whispers from Eternity

                              The Lord God is my strength and my song;

                                            he has given me victory.  

                                                  Isaiah 12:2 NLT

How can you go on when you feel like giving up?

     How can you face another day if you don’t want to get out of bed?    

          My power is the answer to your problem of weakness.

You can be stronger than you feel achievable—if you let Me carry you.

You can accomplish everything I ask of you if you rely on My grace.

You can survive harrowing situations if you trust Me.

You can be ready for anything the future holds if you lean hard on Me.

You can be victorious over evil habits if you depend on My Holy Spirit.

You can avoid self-pitying quicksand if you stand on the Rock of Ages.

You can hang in there when you are bone-tired and weary if you pray.

You can persevere until the finish line if you stay focused on the cross.

How can you celebrate when the world is falling apart?

     How can you rejoice even in the midst of discouraging circumstances?   

          My peace is the answer to your problem of woe.

You can be happier than you think possible—if you let Me comfort you.

You can be optimistic about a bright future if you believe My promises.

You can learn to dance for joy even on cloudy days if you follow My lead.

You can have cascading joy in a sad world if you drink of My Spirit.

You can get over singing the blues if you listen to My toe-tapping jazz.

You can know peace in pandemonium if you keep your mind on Me.

How can you find real significance in a society playing trivial pursuit?

     How can you make God’s dream for your life come true?

          My purpose is the answer to your problem of wandering.

You can be nobler than you deem attainable—if you let Me control you

You can find an exciting reason for living if you honor the King of kings.

You can be resurrected above narcissistic culture if you bury your self.

You can aim for goals death cannot kill if you think vertically.

© Johnny R. Almond                          

Day 265, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Thus saith the Lord of hosts: Yet once, it is a little while,

and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land.

And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come,

and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts.

Haggai 2:6-7 KJV

You have an extraordinarily wonderful event to look forward to—

     the return of your Savior Jesus, the awesome reign of the Messiah. 

You can be absolutely certain it will happen—you have My Word on it.

     My Holy Spirit in your heart convicts you of realities as yet unseen.

There is joy too wonderful for words ahead—heaven is just around the corner.

Though you go through agonizing nights now, ecstasy will soon dawn. 

You live in a humiliating body—limited, weak, subject to disease, mortal. 

When Jesus returns, He will resurrect dust into an immortal and vibrant body. 

You have heard about Christ’s return and read My promises many times.

But you cannot imagine the transformation that will occur when He descends.   

I am planning a celebration greater than anything you have ever experienced.

The redeemed from all nations will join millions of angels singing My praises. 

Nations rise and fall . . . superpowers fade into oblivion . . .

     countries prosper and die . . . conquerors are in turn conquered.

     But My Kingdom will last forever—it is not too good to last.

Nebuchadnezzar’s dream will come true—

     I will inaugurate an indestructible, invincible Kingdom.

     The Rock will shatter all governments and wield unquestionable authority.

My dream will come true—you will ultimately become like My Son.

The noblest dreams of the saints of all ages will come true. 

The universe is infinitely larger and grander than you can fathom—so am I.

It is impossible for you to write a check too big for heaven’s bank to honor.

There will be peace at last—wars history, nations united, earth resting.

I will make My home with you—a down-to-earth God you can enjoy forever.

I will turn everything upside down and start over—

     I will overthrow tyrants and dismantle weapons of mass destruction.

Stars will fall, heads will roll, hearts will fail, tears will flow, knees will bend.

The King of kings—God-of-the-Angel-Armies—will marshal troops of heaven,

     strike godless nations, and vanquish the evil one.

Keep this dream alive!  Skeptics may call you a dreamer, but do not worry—

     your faith will be vindicated; your prayers will be answered;

     your hopes will materialize; your dream will come true.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                       

Gentle Whispers from Eternity

        He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus,a

          sking their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way.

              He wanted to bring them back to Jerusalem in chains.

                                               Acts 9:2 NLT

I am the Way to God.

     All roads do not lead to Rome; neither do they lead to glory.

     Be My follower—travel Holiness Highway by faith,

          and someday you will arrive at the glorious destination of heaven.

I am the Key to truth.

     I am the Embodiment of Unfailing Love and Unvarying Faithfulness.

     All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in My heart.

     Be My student—learn My way and relax in My grace.

I am the Secret of Life.

     I invite you to open your personality to My Presence.

     Be My guest—accept My hospitality, take a seat at My table,

          then feast on My abundant provisions for your soul.

I am the King of hearts.

     I ask from you what a bride asks of her spouse, a father of his children,

          or a philosopher of his friends—your heart.

     Be My disciple—follow My orders, and I will make Myself real to you.

I am the Unifier of believers.

     I am Love, and I command all who love Me to love others who do.

     Be My saint—be affectionate toward your spiritual siblings,

          and enjoy the pleasure of the company of My eternal family.

I am the Goal of faith.

     Believe in Me, though you cannot see Me, and walk in My light.

     Be certain one day you will see Me—purify yourself for that eventuality.

     Be My worshipper—and I will coach you to the finish line.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                   

Day 327. Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Now turn from your sins and turn to God, so you can be cleansed of your sins.

Then wonderful times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord,

and he will send Jesus your Messiah to you again.

Acts 3:19-20 NLT

Searching for a clean heart? I justify you by My pardon.

     Here is the path to a clear conscience—turn from sin, then turn to Me.

     Fall to your knees in repentance, and stand tall by grace.

     Do an about-face from evil, and march in My direction.

     Change your mind about Me, and I will change you from inside out.

     The Pure and Holy One is your only solution for inner cleansing.

     The Just One who died for the unjust is your means of forgiveness.

     I know the skeletons in your closet, but I choose to bury them forever.

     I am aware of your dark past, but I remove your guilt—walk in My light.

Yearning for a celebrative heart? I make you joyful in My Presence.

     Here is the path to ecstasy—obey Me, and I will make Myself real to you.

     To know invulnerable joy, live in the holy land of the broken heart.

     I am the Source and Author of life—enjoy the pleasure of My company.

     I am your Travel Companion—stay close to My side and sing for joy.

     Satan is a killjoy—I am the Key to real life in all its richness.

     I am the Prince of Peace—I calm your heart in life’s pandemonium.

     I am the God of peace—I grant you My peace in life’s combat zone.

     I know life is difficult, but I graciously help you—hold My hand.

Wanting a confident heart? Journey with Me toward paradise.

     Here is the path to hope—Christ in you, you are certain of immortality.

     Heaven is your ultimate home—look ahead, not just around.

     When you worship Me in heaven on earth, you will dance for joy.

     A deathless, tearless, painless, sinless world will replace the old one.

     You can depend on it—I have given you My trustworthy and true Word.    

     God’s Son, the Man from heaven, condescended to be your Savior.

     God’s Servant, the Messiah from heaven, has become your Sovereign.

     I understand your anxieties, but I promise to get you home—trust Me.

 © Johnny R. Almond                                Day 326, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

All Scripture is inspired by God  and is useful to teach us what is true,

and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.

It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.

It is God’s way of preparing us in every way,

fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.

                               2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

Teaching of Scripture gives you vision in a despairing world.

Positive about ultimate reality, look above and beyond perishing things.

Do not pin your hopes on political promises and government plans.

Trust My plan—it is more significant and absolutely certain to happen. 

Your destiny hinges on My trustworthiness—so do not wring your hands.

Knowing everything seen has a destroyer, invest in eternal treasures. 

Believing the future will be as beautiful as My promises, wait patiently.

Anticipating the dawn of the bright morning star, whistle in the dark.

Reviewing My eternal blueprint, look forward to heaven’s open house.

You have My Word—believe My promises and rest assured of glory.

Reproof of the Holy Bible teaches you virtue in a depraved world.

Pure in thought, word and deed, enjoy a good conscience.

To avoid sinning, internalize and treasure My Word in your heart.

To be a person I can use, keep your mind clean and your heart childlike. 

When you realize you have gone wrong, exit that devilish detour.

Learn from your mistakes—stay out of the devil’s dark, dingy places.

Live as a child of the Light—shine like a diamond on black velvet. 

I want you to be My work of art—yield to My Spirit and honor Me. 

Correction of My Word brings you victory in a deceitful world.

Passionate about right behavior, avoid hellacious propaganda.

Satan’s native language is lying—stay in line with the Truth. 

Stay off crooked dead-end roads—travel the straight and narrow.

Run from all lustful stimuli—run toward everything that promotes love. 

Want to win battles against the evil one?  Then follow My Field Manual.

Instruction of the Book from Heaven gives vitality in a dying world.

Productive in good works by staying near Me, revel in a fruitful life.

Independently, you can do nothing worthwhile—you are weak.

Dependently, you can do everything I ask of you—I am your Strength. 

Searching the Scriptures to find eternal life?  I am your Savior. 

Want to prove your love?  Do as I say and I will make Myself real to you.

Yearn to know Me better?  Then live by the Book.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                         Gentle Whispers from Eternity

God has not given us a spirit of cowardice, but of power and love and self-control.

                                          2 Timothy 1:7 MLB

Trust Me and you will have courage to face any enemy that attacks.

Afraid you cannot engage the evil one and win?  You cannot, without Me.

Spinelessness is out of character for one who trusts the Mighty God.

Fear is out of place in hearts abandoned to the Captain of heaven’s hosts.   

Paralysis in the face of death betrays a lack of faith in the risen Lord. 

Do not face the future cowering in fear—face tomorrow fearlessly in faith. 

Do not be agitated by earth’s troubles—enjoy heaven’s gift of peace of mind.

My Spirit is stronger than any opposing force—victory is guaranteed.

March on—I am beside you fighting on your behalf. 

Count on Me and you will have capability to complete God-given tasks.  

Afraid you cannot do what I ask?  You cannot, without My grace.

Without Me you can do nothing—with Me impossibilities evaporate. 

Without Me you are powerless—with Me you are strong. 

Afraid of people?  Intimidation neutralizes your effectiveness for Me. 

The Almighty walks with you, so do not tremble before mere mortals.

My Spirit gives lasting patience, tenacious loyalty and undying constancy.   

Walk on water—I am in your soul energizing and enabling you.

Follow Me and you will have compassion to care for others.

Afraid you cannot care as I expect you to?  You cannot, without My mercy. 

My Son went around doing good—do more than just go around.

You are blessed to be a blessing, helped to be helpful, loved to be loving. 

Love in your heart is not put there to stay—it is not love, till you give it away. 

My Spirit prompts sacrificial love, lavish giving and Christlike gentleness. 

Care more than others think wise—I am in your heart inspiring you. 

Think about Me and you will have composure to stand strain and stress.

Afraid you cannot keep from going crazy?  You cannot, without My peace.

When I exorcised demons, people sat at My feet in their right mind.

When I calm your inner storms, you can think clearly under pressure. 

My Spirit grants incomprehensible peace and supernatural self-control.

Resign as Universe General Manager—I am in your mind calming you.

Lean on Me and you will confidence to boldly step into tomorrow.

Afraid you cannot keep your chin up?  You cannot, without My Spirit.

I promise to make the future bright—trust without doubt. 

I promise to be your Night Light—live without fear.    

I promise to help you win—fight without trembling.

Look forward to a glorious destiny—I am in your life cheering you on.

© Johnny R. Almond           Gentle Whispers from Eternity

 True godliness with contentment is itself great wealth.

             After all, we brought nothing with us

                   when we came into the world,

and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it.

So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.

               1 Timothy 6:6-8 NLT

Avoid the curse of greed.

Avarice triggers all kinds of evil—marital discord, theft, marred friendship.

If your bank account grows, do not make it the center of your life.

Joy is not measured by investment portfolios or square footage of a house. 

It is impossible to divide allegiance between God and money—do not try.

If you have lots of money, do not trust it – you’ll leave it all behind one day.

Moths consume the finest threads;  rust destroys the most expensive cars; 

     thieves find a way to break in to mansions—watch your priorities.

Depending on dollars will bankrupt your heart—value Me above all else.

Rudyard Kipling correctly observed:

     “Do not care overly much for wealth or power or fame,

         or one day you will meet someone who cares for none of these things,

         and you will realize how poor you have become.”

Treasure the contentment of God.

A satisfied mind is a great blessing—one very few people truly enjoy.

Bank accounts diminish and stock markets crash, but I never fail you.   

Find comfort in Me and you can learn to be content with much or little.

Let Me satisfy your soul’s hunger and gourmet restaurants will not matter.   

Let Me clothe you with righteousness and designer wardrobes will not lure.

I give your mind faith, your heart love, and your will perseverance. 

I bless your life with purpose, and your future with heaven. 

I am more precious than silver, costlier than gold, and brighter than jewels.   

Nothing you yearn for can compare with the pleasure of My company.

Practice the celebration of good works.

I have told you to love people and use money—never turn this around.

I have freely given you great resources—I expect you to give freely.

I proved My love by My cross—shoulder your cross and walk in My steps.

I went around doing good—be sure you do not merely go around.

I lived a life filled with love for others—see that you do the same.

I have blessed you with My Spirit to help you survive—lean on Me.

I have promised to do more than you can imagine—pray as you go.

I have offered heaven’s armor to help you survive earth’s battles—don it.

I have guaranteed ultimate victory over sin and death—count on it.

I have designed good things I want you to do for Me in life—stay busy.

© Johnny R. Almond                                        Gentle Whispers from Eternity

There is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and people.

He is the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone.

                                                 1 Timothy 2:5-6a NLT

Rebellion troubles.
     Sin brings a temporary thrill—its only lasting result is frustration.
     Iniquity leads to condemnation and chaos—nothing good comes from bad.   
     All people miss the mark of perfection—you are no exception to the rule.
     Rebellion pays in the coin of heartbreak—guilt and death are sad wages. 
     Transgression estranges human hearts from the Creator—the gap is wide.

Repentance turns.     
     I permit U-turns—all who do an about-face find faith a nobler direction.   
     All who travel Holiness Highway find it better than a dead end road to hell.     
     Want to walk tall? Get on your knees and you can get to your feet again.     
     Want to sing for joy? Exit hellacious detours and travel Heaven Boulevard.       
     Want to really live? Then reverse evil.

Redemption transforms.     
     When humanity was at its worst, I was at My best—I sent My Beloved Son.
     If you got what you deserve, justice would land you in hell.     
     If you just did not get what you deserve, mercy would keep you out of hell.     
     Grace can give you better than you deserve—exuberant, eternal life.     
     Christ swapped with you at Skull Hill—believe and never be the same.

Reconciliation triumphs.
     All who accept My grace are at ease in My Presence—eternally friends. 
     I reside in hearts surrendered to Christ—friends of His are friends of Mine.
     Whatever you may face in the future, I will enable you to survive—and sing.       
     Jesus plus any problem equals victory—don My armor and win your battle.     
     By nail-scarred hands, Jesus holds My hand in holiness and yours in love.
     Clasp His hand and walk over turbulent waters of regret and guilt,
          to a tranquil place of grace built by My Son—
               the Bridge over troubled water and the Bridge to heaven.

        © Pastor Johnny R. Almond                       
Day 350, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Mine is a kingdom of sacrificial love—an empire of unselfish souls.

     I knew what would happen on Skull Hill—I could have avoided it.

     I chose to suffer isolation from My Father so you and I could be friends.

     Those who came to arrest Me did not need to handcuff Me—

          I voluntarily laid down My life for the transgressions of the world.

     In an uncaring world, I am the Highest Example of Tenderheartedness.  

     Follow My lead—live a life filled with love for others.

Mine is a kingdom of absolute truth—a domain of unchanging reality.

     Pilate asked, “What is truth?” unaware of Truth in his presence.

     My Word gives clear answers—My Spirit sensitizes your conscience.

     I am the Embodiment of All Truth—scientific, philosophical, spiritual.

     Believe My Book—live a life in line with holy principles.

Mine is a kingdom of total justice—a realm of undeniable fairness.

     My judgment is not clouded by appearance, false evidence, or hearsay.

     At the end of the day, the King of kings will abolish all inequity.

     Trust My promises—live a life of unflinching hope that right will win.

Mine is a kingdom of peace—a territory of undisturbed serenity.

     Ultimately all unsheathed swords will be hammered into plowshares.

     Spears will make good pruning hooks in a fruitful restored paradise.

     After all human solutions fail, I will bring tranquility to an uneasy world.

     Relax—live a life of unflappable equanimity anticipating peace at last.

Mine is a kingdom of universal authority—a rule of unrivaled power.

     When I identified Myself to soldiers and Temple guards with I Am,

          they lurched backward to the ground.

     When I ascend My throne to reign over nations, every knee will bow—

          angels, humans, and demons will all recognize My right to rule.

     At the dawn of eternity, I will triumph over all enemies of righteousness.

          Worship Me—live a life of faith that I Will Always Be Who I Am.

         © Johnny R. Almond                                  

Day 324, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

If you want to be my follower you must love me more than

your father, mother, wife, children, brothers and sisters—

yes, more than your own life.  

You cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me.  

Count the cost. 

No one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.                                                                                         

Luke 14:26-28a, 33 NLT

Sanctify your heart—consecrate your inner being to Me.

     In grateful response to My mercy, love Me wholeheartedly.

     Live passionately—prioritize My cause above earth’s trivial pursuits.

     Live thoughtfully—ponder behavior, and reside in the moral highlands.

     Live energetically—serve Me with all your strength and health.

     Live creatively—allow Me to work through your unique personality.

     Live loyally—make Me your Center of Gravity.

     Live lovingly—adore Me with sincere affection nothing can kill.

Shoulder your cross—carry responsibilities willingly, without griping.

     No difficulty or frustration begins to match the cross I carried for you.

     Do not run from suffering—it is part of the landscape of obedience.

     I endured excruciating pain for you—it is your turn to hang in there for Me.      

     There is only one way you can bear the cross I give you—grace.

     Live unselfishly—put aside egocentric ambition and focus on others.

     Live courageously—splinters from the cross should not surprise you.

     Live nobly—follow my example; walk in My steps.

Surrender your life—count the cost of being My disciple.

     Live for my glory—never seek your own.

     Hold nothing back—renounce the idea of ownership.

     Recognize My sovereignty—acknowledge that I rule and overrule all.

     Be totally sincere in working for Me—take My business seriously.

     Live humbly—do not be self-assertive;  remember your place.

     Live hopefully—practice downward mobility and I will promote you.

     Live carefully—calculate the cost of obeying, and the higher cost of rebelling.

     Live radically—give up everything for Me and finish the Faith Marathon.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                           Day 317, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

 Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant;

           whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.

                           Mark 10:43b, 44 LNT

Think you are somebody really important, do you? Better think again.

     VIPs are forgotten in history’s dust storm—mists of time erase their names.     

     You are no better than anyone else—you are made of dust, like all humans.

     You are not totally, eternally, irrevocably responsible for everything—I am!

     Learn this well—I am God, in charge; you are a subject, under orders.

Been throwing your weight around lately? Step on scales of reality.

     Your house of cards will topple in winds of change—Mine is eternal.

     You are not strong enough to hold the earth on your shoulders—I am.

     You do not reign on the throne of the universe—I govern all nations.

     You are not wise enough to direct traffic patterns of galaxies—get real!

     Serve Me, not yourself; advance My Kingdom, and do not build your own.

Letting power go to your head? Do not turn into a Tyrannosaurus Rex!

     Held hostage by ego? Enslaved to ambition? There is a nobler way.

     Prioritize My cause—copy Christ’s attitude of downward mobility.

     I am absolute Lord of the universe, Master of surrendered hearts.

     Submit to My sovereignty, and I will help you make sense of your life.

Lording it over ones you deem beneath you? Dismount your high horse!

     Do not be a smart-aleck! Do not overprice yourself!

     I condescended to wash dirty feet—you are not too good for slave labor!      

     Heads swollen with conceit explode trying to maintain inflated self-images.

     Hearts living in the holy land of trust and obedience persevere by grace.

Want to be truly great by heaven’s definition? Learn to serve like Jesus.

     Do not expect the world to wait on you hand and foot—wait on them!

     If you want to rank high in My estimation, take a low position of humility.

     Conquer selfishness with service, rise above narrow views of success,

          and remember that self-worth does not result from resumes—

          then you will see heaven’s approval reflected in My eyes.

     © Pastor Johnny R. Almond                    

Day 315, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Jesus went up on a mountain and called the ones he wanted to go with him.

He selected twelve of them to be his regular companions, calling them apostles.

He sent them out to preach, and he gave them authority to cast out demons.

                                    Mark 3:13-15 NLT

            Leonardo DaVinci    The Last Supper 

Are you like Peter—vocal in resolve, denying Me by Satan’s fireside?

Are you like James, Zebedee’s son—thunderously short-tempered?

Are you like John—deeply in love with the Lover of your soul?

Are you like Andrew—enthused about inviting others to meet Me?

Are you like Philip—wondering how I can take care of huge problems?

Are you like Bartholomew—honest and straightforward with Me?

Are you like Matthew—giving up corruption and taking up My cause?

Are you like Thomas—tentative, then worshiping Me as your God?

Are you like James, Alphaeus’ son—a behind-the-scenes follower?

Are you like Thaddaeus—obeying without knowing details of My plan?

Are you like Simon the Zealot—fiercely patriotic, and a heavenly citizen?

Are you like Judas Iscariot—a treacherous turncoat?

Like the apostles, you are an ordinary person—human, limited, mortal.

     But if you follow Me, I will change you into an extraordinary influencer.

Similar to My original inner circle, you are privileged to be very near Me.

     Trust My heart and obey My voice, and know Me as a near and dear Friend.

You did not choose Me—I chose you and tasked you to produce fruit.

     I called you to be My ambassador—will you represent Me honorably?

Energized by My Holy Spirit, you are My ally in the battle against evil.

     I challenge you to stand up to the Devil—will you fight the good fight?

You are My associate in life’s most serious business—evangelism.

     I commissioned you to preach—will you speak up faithfully?

If you were merely My servant, I would not share My heart with you.

     You are one of My friends—will you keep company with Me today?

                                          

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond            

Day 314, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

                        Sallman  Head of Christ

    Someone is coming soon who is far greater than I am—

  so much greater that I am not even worthy to be his slave.

                                    Mark 1:7 NLT                                                                                          

I am a Greater King—infinitely more authoritative than all earthly rulers.

   As Savior, I was Servant King;  as Judge, I will be Sovereign King of kings.

   You are unworthy to be My subject. By My mercy, you are—be thankful.

   Be subject to change.

I am a Greater God—infinitely more awesome than all false gods of the heart.

   Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—I alone deserve your wholehearted allegiance.    

   You are unworthy to be My creation. By My choice, you are—be reverent.

   Know your place.

I have a greater message—infinitely more significant than any of your own ideas.

   Truthful language in the Book from Heaven is greater than political correctness.    

   You are unworthy to be My messenger. By My will, you are—be enthusiastic.

   Preach My Word.

I extend a greater calling—infinitely more truthful than hell’s propaganda.

   Ready for action? Willing to move out of your comfort zone to serve Me?

   You are unworthy to be My evangelist. By My grace, you are—be loving.

   Tell My story.

I offer greater teaching—infinitely more transforming than human philosophy.

   Apply My teaching, and call Me Rabboni—your very own Teacher.

   You are unworthy to be My disciple. By My love, you are—be studious.

   Keep in mind what I have to say.

I have greater power—infinitely more effective than any other force.

   I exorcise demons—erasing guilt, tumbling pride, ending vendettas.

   You are unworthy to be My ambassador. By My Spirit, you are—be confident.

   Take My hand.

I demonstrate a greater attitude—infinitely more noble than your petty ambition.

   I practiced downward mobility to show the secret of greatness—servanthood.  

   You are unworthy to be My servant. By My example, you are—be faithful.

   Walk in My steps.

         © Pastor Johnny R. Almond                 

Day 313, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

 The Invisible Christ

It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.

He chose to share oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying fleeting pleasures of sin.

He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than own treasures of Egypt,

for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.

It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king.

Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.

                                                     Hebrews 11:24-27 NLT

Motivated by an unseen face,  leave the sinful world behind you.

You have never seen Me, but trust Me anyway and you will be blessed.

Thrill of physical pleasure, comfort of things, and pride of ownership

     cannot match the joy of My company and the reward of My approval. 

Professing faith in Me, you are under obligation to live like Me—

     Christlikeness is a moral imperative, not just an ethical ideal.

When I return to reign over the earth, you will see Me as I really am.

     If you really believe this, make a conscious effort to be ready. 

Like Enoch, walk in habitual fellowship with Me.

You live in two worlds—one visible, one unseen except with heart eyes.  

Radically hoping for a better life on the other side of resurrection,

     rest assured you will see your living Redeemer with your own eyes.

Looking forward to a tearless, deathless, painless, sinless place,

     anticipate unimaginable surprises and eternal ecstasy.

Live honorably—uncompromisingly purify your heart. 

Worshiping an invisible King,  refuse to be intimidated by Earth’s ruler. 

The snake that sank hateful fangs into My body was pulverized at the cross. 

The spirit at work in unbelieving hearts will be defeated by My Holy Spirit.

Your Accuser will ultimately lose his battle against your Advocate. 

You have never seen your Defense Counsel, yet I take your side faithfully. 

When you stand before Me acquitted, you will celebrate like never before.

Until then, draw near Me and experience joy too wonderful for words. 

At My return, every eye will see Me—in the meantime, continue.

Like David, be a person who develops a heart like Mine.

Like Noah, hammer away until you finish the task I assigned you.

Like Sarah, learn that nothing is too hard for Me, then laugh for joy.

Like Abraham, move out in confidence and find I take good care of you.

Live courageously—unflinchingly persevere in following My orders.

Serving the behind-the-scenes God,  keep Me first until you see My face. 

Live by faith, not by sight—remember the truly essential is invisible. 

Allow nothing to take the first place in your heart I alone deserve. 

Make My cause your focus—make My grace your survival technique.       

Like Abraham, look forward to a promised land beyond what you can see. 

Live purposefully—untiringly proclaim My story until you see My smile.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond             Gentle Whispers from Eternity     

                                                              I trust in God’s unfailing love forever and ever.

                                                      I will praise you forever, O God, for what you have done.

                                                    I will wait for your mercies in the presence of your people.

                                                                                   Psalm 52:8b-9 NLT

    You are liberated from yesterday’s guilt by my unfailing love. 

     Praise My Son forever what He has done!  Condescending from an eternal throne to earthly trouble, He became a human being.  Caring about how you live your life, He came to show you the best way.  Carrying your sins on his shoulders, He was crucified in your place. Conquering death and evil, He came back to life. 

     Jesus is your pardon for the past.  He forgives all your sins and heals all your soul’s dis-eases.  I am merciful and get angry very slowly.  I do not treat you as you deserve, or you would last no longer than a dandelion in a windstorm. I remove your rebellious deeds infinitely away from My mind.    

     Look forward to tomorrow’s glory in My unfailing love.

     I am the one and only God—I alone deserve your total allegiance.  Joining the bandwagon of naïve reliance on sophisticated technology will only make you feel hollow. Becoming part of the masquerade at the shrine of self-glorification will lead you to see something’s missing and unreal about that lifestyle.  I alone satisfy your heart.

     Jesus is your promise for the future. The current multiplicity of gods will someday give way to the one true God.  False gods of the heart will be forgotten when Christ reigns as King over the new creation. 

     Live gladly today by My unfailing love.

     Stand in the free air I give you to breathe, with your feet on My free turf, and thank your Creator for the gift of physical existence.  Gratefulness toward heaven is the most nearly perfect way to pray.  Praise Me in company with My faithful friends.  Sing your heart out to Me with songs I give you in the night and daytime melodies I inspire. 

     Jesus is your power for the present.  March forward in Christ’s triumphant procession, keeping in step with the Spirit cadence and holding your head high on your way home.  I will always be who I have always been—I have always loved you and I always will. Whatever I ask of you, I enable you to accomplish. In the strength I infuse into your innermost being, you are ready for anything life brings. 

© 2022 Johnny R. Almond                                                                                            Gentle Whispers from Eternity

       Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this:

    ‘Hear, O Israel!  The Lord our God is the one and only Lord.

       And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart,

             all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’

                      The second is equally important:

                      ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

             No other commandment is greater than these.”

                              Mark 12:29-31 NLT

So many things seem important to you, you get confused and frustrated.

Keeping all those plates spinning can be exhausting—

     so many critical projects demanding your immediate attention,

     so many people expecting so many things of you,

     so many tasks appearing on your to-do list.

How in the world can you ever hope to find the time to get it all done?

How can you decide which priorities deserve immediate, closest attention?

Listen to My voice—hear well the orders from your Commander.

There is nothing more important in your life than loving your Creator.

There is nothing more critical to do than worshipping your Redeemer.

There is nothing more significant than staying in step with your Sanctifier.

Love Me wholeheartedly—divided allegiance produces mediocrity. 

Love Me with all your emotions—be sincere in your feelings. 

Gaze at Skull Hill and see proof of My love, then love Me more.

Walk with Me joyfully—enjoy the pleasure of My company.

Love Me with all your ego—be serious in your faith.

Creatively serve Me—love Me through your unique personality.

Honor Me supremely, above all else—avoid false gods of the heart.

Love Me with all your energy—be strong in your focus.

Go beyond announcing affection—demonstrate it by everyday actions.

Obey Me conscientiously and passionately—walk in My steps faithfully.

Love Me with all your education—be sharp in your fact-finding.

Ennoble your mind by daily intake of Scripture—intelligently serve Me.

Change the way you think and you will change the way you live.

Let Me be more than just words to you—let Me be your First Love.

You do not get near My heart by traveling, but by loving.

Fall in love and stay in love with the Lover of your soul.

Whatever you plan today, do not overlook orders from Higher Headquarters.

   © Johnny R. Almond                                       Gentle Whispers from Eternity

     The Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details!

                   There is really only one thing worth being concerned about.

                    Mary has discovered it—and I won’t take it away from her.”

                                                 Luke 10:41-42 NLT

Distracted by trivial pursuits? My Kingdom is life’s noblest quest.

     Beside yourself? You are better off beside Me.

     Falling apart? Fall on your knees.

     Wringing your hands? Take My hand and I will take good care of you.

     Worried sick? Follow My prescription for excellent health.

Give careful attention to My words—wiser than Satan’s propaganda.

     Rest in green meadows of trust—calmer than the world’s rat race.

     Relax beside peaceful streams—better than the comfort of noise. 

     Walk obedient paths—more honorable than rebellious detours.

     Live fearlessly, even in death’s shadow—bolder than bravado.

     Enjoy the pleasure of My company—sweeter than sin’s temporary thrill.

Stay close to My heart and avoid the stranger from hell out to hurt you.

     The evil one wants to steal enthusiasm, kill joy, and destroy influence.

     I want to give you high purpose, invulnerable joy, and eternal impact.

Sit at My feet—let Me settle down and be at home in your heart.

     I am your Most Honored Guest—give Me your undivided attention.

     Do not fret over the work you must do, turning life into a long rush hour.

Worship begins with silence—hush so you can hear My voice.

     If you ever hope to really get to know Me, you will have to slow down.

     If you yearn to find deep rest, I can teach you how to relax.

More than self-confidence, you need faith in your Savior.

     More than Scripture memorization, you need devotion to the Living Word.

     More than assent to My claims, you need intimacy with your Master.

     More than regimented obedience, your need genuine love for your Lord.

     More than zealous hectivity, you need heartfelt loyalty to your heart’s King.

     More than dead-end legalism, you need to walk the high road with Christ.

To-do list impossible? Fragmented? Going in circles, getting nowhere?  

     I can calm your restlessness and give you proper direction.

     Let Me vector your mind and heart in the direction of the cross—

          only then will you make spiritual headway.

     Concern yourself with one absolute essential—relationship with Me—

          only then will your life make sense. 

         (c)  Johnny R. Almond 

Gentle Whispers from Eternity