Johnny R. Almond's Posts

Jesus Saves

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on January 19, 2022 at 12:41

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has appointed me to preach Good News to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,

that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors,

and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.

Luke 4:18-19 NLT

Jesus’ plan will include a new earth for the meek.

Saints are ignored by big shots now, but one day they’ll be on the front row.

The Great Reversal will turn everything around and right side up.

Big wheels rule the world now, but God’s favorites will reign in paradise.

When the Lord lives with the humble-hearted, crying and pain will disappear.

When God makes his home on earth, death and evil will be forever history.

The world mistreats God’s children now, but He will save us from oppression.

Jesus’ peace will bring elation to the believing.

The Day of all days will make heaven’s blessings evident to the universe.

Glory will cascade ecstasy through the heart of every trusting soul.

The beauty of heaven will replace the ashes of earth’s disappointments.

The joy of Jesus’ company will transcend heartache of earth’s discouragement.

The praise of his love will cancel loneliness of earth’s despair.

The world breaks hearts of his disciples now, but He will save us from sadness.

Jesus’ Presence encourages the desperate.

Can’t get it all together? Ready to give up the noble quest? About to quit?

Seek his face and listen to his voice and you will find strength to go on.

Listen to God’s future melody and you can dance by faith here and now.

When perplexities crowd our heart, his consolations cheer our soul.

Just when we need him the most, He is there for us.

With Jesus on our side, we’re richer than we think—He saves us from poverty.

Jesus’ power extricates the shackled.

Jesus is the key to freedom—He alone can emancipate us from sin.

A lifestyle of rebellion imprisons the soul—a lifestyle of obedience frees.

Fettered in a dark cell? Let his sunshine set you free and you’ll leap with joy.

Resolve and dogged determination only go so far—He saves us from addiction.

Jesus’ promise opens the eyes of the blind.

Without seeing him, we follow him by faith—one day we’ll meet face to face.

Eyes of the heart see things as they will be, not as they are now.

Faith is an eye-opening experience, giving confidence of ultimate victory.

Believing we’ll at last see him motivates us to purify our heart to get ready.

The world will go up in smoke, then the New Jerusalem will materialize.

Painting a mural of heaven on condemned building? Jesus saves from despair.

The Purpose of Christ's Church

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on January 10, 2022 at 13:16

There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving.

A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church.

1 Corinthians 12:5, 7 NLT

Christ’s church exists to worship Him.

He is glorified when his children sing his praises wholeheartedly.

Humbling ourselves in his Presence—

we acknowledge that God is our Creator and Master;

we submit to his guidance and sincerely follow his lead;

we thank him for rich blessings He showers on us day by day;

we honor his name in our words, thoughts, and actions.

We exalt Christ above everything, avoiding false gods of the heart.

Christ’s church is designed to provide fellowship for his family.

No saint should declare emotional independence from other saints.

Every member needs help from other members—no one is an island.

Jesus’ sheep flock together—love for him unifies and cheers our hearts.

God blesses his people with a kaleidoscope of gifts to build each other up.

We encourage others, showing sincere and loving interest in them.

Christ’s church is a school for his students.

Disciples have different experiences, personalities and abilities;

but we share one common need—to grow up in faith and grace.

Studying God’s’ Word, we try to live by the Book in our everyday lives.

Walking in God’s Light, we take one step at a time in life’s journey.

Reflecting on God’s Law, we obey his orders and set the pace for others.

We educate all who enroll in Jesus University—there’s a lot to learn.

Christ’s church is commissioned to share the best news every announced.

Jesus died for the world’s sins so people wouldn’t have to experience hell.

He rose again from the grave so people could be free from fear of dying.

Sowing Gospel seed in tears, we celebrate the harvest in joyful triumph.

We evangelize the world with a sense of urgency—time is ticking away.

Christ’s church is called to minister to others in his name.

Our mission field is the world—compassion for others marks his servants.

Heartless service is useless service—love alone makes the difference.

Shouldering our cross in the shadows of our Master, we serve the world.

We love beyond stained-glass windows—Christianity is made for the road.

Pastor, Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church

In the Beginning

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on December 20, 2021 at 12:59

Hubble Telescope image - March 15, 2021

US and European officials have announced December 24th, 7:20 A.M. EST for the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope. A $10 billion successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, it is scheduled to lift-off from French Guiana. This observatory is designed to look deeper into the universe than its predecessor, detecting events occurring further back in time--more than 13.5 billion years ago. Scientists also want to use its capabilities to study atmospheres of distant planets in the hope that signs of life might be detected.

Few have ever experienced total darkness. At the bottom of a cave, or in a basement when the power shuts off perhaps. But there's typically a faint glow coming from somewhere. Even the night sky never seems truly black, because there's usually a star or two twinkling in the distance.

So it’s hard to imagine a time when all that existed was darkness, when you could travel in any direction for millions of years and still see absolutely nothing. This is the story scientists tell us of the "dark ages" that gripped the universe before the first stars ignited. They intend to show us how the cosmos ultimately became filled with light. They'll do it using the biggest telescope ever placed beyond the Earth.

The Webb telescope is on a mission to look deeper into the universe - and therefore further back in time - than even the legendary Hubble Space Telescope, which it succeeds. Equipped with a 21foot mirror and four super-sensitive instruments,
it will stare for days at a very narrow spot in the sky to detect light that’s been travelling through the immensity of space for more than 13.5 billion years.

Scientists think there should be stars, or galaxies, or black holes maybe beginning at 100 million years after the Big Bang. There may not be many to find at that time, but the telescope can see them if they are there.

Reasoning that since light travels at a finite speed in a vast and expanding cosmos, scientists say that if we keep probing deeper and deeper, we should eventually retrieve the light from the pioneer stars as they group together into the first galaxies.

   This massive telescope must get past 344 hurdles to do what it’s designed to do—deploying a solar panel and radio antenna minutes after launch, opening wings of the primary mirror, unfurling a tennis court-sized shield to keep it cool and protect its vision from the glare of the sun.

Webb is complicated. According to BBC, key hardware includes 140 release mechanisms, 70 hinge assemblies, eight deployment motors, 400 pulleys and 90 cables totaling 1,312ft.

Why go to all this trouble? Why spend 10 years conceiving and another twenty years building a $10 billion machine to detect some faint, red blobs in the sky? Perhaps it is in search of an answer to the most fundamental of questions—Where do we come from?

Here’s the scientists’ explanations. When the universe was formed in the Big Bang, it contained only hydrogen, helium and a little lithium. Nothing else. All the heavier chemical elements in the Periodic Table were forged in stars. Carbon making up living things, nitrogen in Earth's atmosphere, and silicon in rocks were manufactured in nuclear reactions that make stars shine and in mighty explosions ending their existence. We're only here because first stars and their descendants seeded the universe with the material to make stuff.

Here’s the Bible’s explanation—In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. The Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Then God said, "Let there be light. Let lights appear in the sky to separate the day from the night. Let these lights in the sky shine down on the earth. God made two great lights--the larger one to govern the day, and the smaller one to govern the night. He also made the stars. Then God said, "Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us." By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God's command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen.  (Genesis 1:1-3a, 14-18, 26, 27; Hebrews 11:3 NLT)

Several years ago, an anonymous author wrote--"Hundreds of top scientists worked together to build the ultimate computer, a master brain with the intellect to answer all the questions and solve all the mysteries of the world. Finally it was completed and ready for its first question. With trembling hands, one of the scientists fed in the question: 'How did the world start?' Lights flashed, wheels whirred, tumblers clicked. Finally the machine answered: 'See Genesis.'"

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond

Future Perfect Tense

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on October 4, 2021 at 11:33

As my vision continued that night,
I saw someone who looked like a man coming with the clouds of heaven.
He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence.
He was given authority, honor, and royal power over all the nations of the world,
so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him.
His rule is eternal--it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.
DANIEL 7:13-14 NLT

In the future the Son of Man will be revealed as the Son of God—
My Right-hand Man, returning on the clouds of heaven.
When His full character is unveiled, believers will breathe a sigh of relief.
When His unquestionable authority is revealed, saints will leap for joy.

The Lamb turned Lion will be an awful revelation to an incredulous world.
His piercing eyes will see right through all pretense and hypocrisy.
His almighty feet will walk all over enemies of righteousness.
His divine voice will thunder out proclamations of justice and truth.
His authoritative arm will wield a sharp sword to cut away falsehood.
His victorious hands will hold the keys of death and the grave.
Gentle Jesus will shock people who forgot accountability to Him as Judge.

Worldly warring kingdoms will become the Messiah’s peaceful kingdom.
Memories of chaos, anxiety, and turmoil will never haunt the redeemed.
Cemeteries and hospitals will no longer be needed by the glorified.
Loneliness will disappear in the fellowship of celebrative hearts.
Millions will worship Him and sing His praises with liberated hearts.
My servants will worship and serve Me with joyful hearts.

Current events disturb you, but the future perfect tense will delight you.
Believer, you are destined to be part of Christ’s indestructible kingdom!
Live gratefully, humbly, and reverently until earth’s nightmare is over.
Jesus will reign over the new earth—heaven’s dream will come true.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 291, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The Transforming Presence

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 27, 2021 at 10:49

From that day the name of the city will be “The LORD Is There.”

EZEKIEL 48:35 NLT

When you are unsure which way to turn, I am there to direct you.
When you are feeling gloomy and despondent, I am there to cheer you up.
When you are worn out and exhausted, I am there to give you rest.
When you are frazzled, I am there to give you peace of mind.
When you are wringing your hands, I am there to settle your nerves.
When you are battling the evil one, I am there to guarantee your victory.
When you are frustrated by changing situations, I am there to stabilize you.
When you are on stormy seas, I am there to keep you on an even keel.
When you are experiencing earth’s chaos, I am there to calm your heart.
When you are on the verge of falling apart, I am there to hold you together.
When you are weak and overwhelmed, I am there to renew your strength.
When you are afraid, I am there to hold your hand and encourage you.
When you are going through deep waters, I am there to keep you afloat.
When you are experiencing fiery trials, I am there to shield you from harm.
|When you are surrounded by trouble, I am there as your Hiding Place.
When you are feeling life is too hard, I am there to help you succeed.
When you are stumbling in the dark, I am there to light your way.
When you are feeling guilty, I am there to forgive and take your sins away.
When you are wondering what is next, I am there to give you a bright future.
When you are dragging your feet, I am there to teach you how to dance.
When you are feeling no one loves you, I am there to hold you near Me.
When you are in a sad valley, I am there to give you a vision of hope.
When you are on an ecstatic mountaintop, I am there to celebrate with you.
When you are in a deep pit of depression, I am there to lift you up.
When you are visiting the world’s other side, I am there to travel with you.
When you are on cloud nine, I am there to be the Life of your party.
When you are overshadowed by clouds, I am there to shine joy in your soul.
When you are singing the blues, I am there to give you a new praise song.
When you are sleepless after a hard day, I am there to sing you a lullaby.
When you are opening your eyes at dawn, I am there as your wake-up call.
When you are struggling to navigate life’s maze, I am there to lead you.
When you are moving from time into eternity, I am there to make it heaven.
I am your Greatest Blessing—whatever you need, I am there for you.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 290, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Honestly, Now . . .

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 20, 2021 at 10:56

Use honest scales -- honest weights and measures. Every pound must have sixteen ounces. Every gallon must measure four quarts.
Your coins must be honest -- no wooden nickels! EZEKIEL 45:10-12 THE MESSAGE

I am the Way of Love—walk My paths today and be happy.
Be honest with yourself, frankly assessing your nature and worth.
Learn well My lessons in love.
  Work at loving—keep at it through all seasons.
  Remember love’s Source—use heaven’s gift for earth’s good.
  Do not focus on your wavering love—see real love at the cross.
  Follow My Son’s example—love other people sacrificially.
  Compassionately care for others—experience the helper’s high.
Honestly, now . . . there is no better way to serve.

I am the Truth of Law—obey My principles today and be helpful.
Be honest with others—truthful in everything you say and do.
In a me-first society, do what is just and right for a change.
Worship Me above all else; care for others like you do yourself—
  and two things will be transformed—your heart and neighborhood.
Honestly, now . . . there is no better way to live.

I am the Life of Liberty—seek My Presence today and be holy.
Be honest to God—transparent before the One seeing through you.
Satan promises you freedom, but all he gives you is handcuffs.
Only Christ can unshackle you from addictive self-destructive habits.
Travel Holiness Highway and revel in the pleasure of My company.
Honestly, now . . . there is no better way to rejoice.

Honesty is the best policy because I said so—and that is not negotiable.
To translate abstract justice and righteousness into practical holiness,
  it is imperative that you be genuinely honest.
You have often thought about the critical importance of honesty.
Honestly, now . . . don’t you think it is about time for you to LIVE IT?

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 289, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The Folly of Egocentricity

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 13, 2021 at 11:39

black hole - Hubble Telescope image

They think the whole world revolves around them!
EZEKIEL 38:12 NLT

Rabbi Hillel asked a good question in Ethics of the Fathers:
“If I am only for myself, who am I?”
Selfishness runs counter to My will, and isolates you from others.

The earth is not the center of the universe—the Eternal One is.
Earthly-mindedness is limiting and worrisome.
Go about your business, ignoring Mine, and you will go spiritually bankrupt.

The sun is not the center of the universe—the Son of God is.
The Light of the World illuminates the Way to the Truth of Life.
The Sun of Righteousness holds everything together, including you.

The north star is not the center of the universe—the Bright Morning Star is.
The Creator of the cosmos directs the traffic patterns of the galaxies.
The Star-Maker inspires hope in the darkest night of your soul.

You are not the center of the universe—I am.
Self-centeredness is laughable and sinful.
Egocentricity breeds lust, impurity, greed, idolatry, anger, and slander.
Egomaniacs eventually self-destruct—they love themselves to death.
Arrogant enough to take a do-it-yourself approach to life?
Self-righteous to the point of taking center stage and claiming holiness?
Convinced you are strong enough to handle any problem you may face?
Smart enough to figure out all the enigmas of the world?
Bragging you have it made, the world wrapped around your finger?

Christ-centeredness alone is eternally significant.
Find a nobler purpose—honoring your Savior in all you do.
Enjoy greater pleasure—celebrating the joy of His company.
Experience higher power—surviving difficulties by His grace.
Celebrate greater purity—thinking your Master’s thoughts.

Live His way—beyond yourself.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 288, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The Folly of Egocentricity

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 13, 2021 at 11:20

black hole - Hubble Telescope image

They think the whole world revolves around them!
EZEKIEL 38:12 NLT

Rabbi Hillel asked a good question in Ethics of the Fathers:
“If I am only for myself, who am I?”
Selfishness runs counter to My will, and isolates you from others.

The earth is not the center of the universe—the Eternal One is.
Earthly-mindedness is limiting and worrisome.
Go about your business, ignoring Mine, and you will go spiritually bankrupt.

The sun is not the center of the universe—the Son of God is.
The Light of the World illuminates the Way to the Truth of Life.
The Sun of Righteousness holds everything together, including you.

The north star is not the center of the universe—the Bright Morning Star is.
The Creator of the cosmos directs the traffic patterns of the galaxies.
The Star-Maker inspires hope in the darkest night of your soul.

You are not the center of the universe—I am.
Self-centeredness is laughable and sinful.
Egocentricity breeds lust, impurity, greed, idolatry, anger, and slander.
Egomaniacs eventually self-destruct—they love themselves to death.
Arrogant enough to take a do-it-yourself approach to life?
Self-righteous to the point of taking center stage and claiming holiness?
Convinced you are strong enough to handle any problem you may face?
Smart enough to figure out all the enigmas of the world?
Bragging you have it made, the world wrapped around your finger?

Christ-centeredness alone is eternally significant.
Find a nobler purpose—honoring your Savior in all you do.
Enjoy greater pleasure—celebrating the joy of His company.
Experience higher power—surviving difficulties by His grace.
Celebrate greater purity—thinking your Master’s thoughts.

Live His way—beyond yourself.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 288, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Bragging Rights

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 7, 2021 at 12:44

You boasted proudly against me, and I have heard it all!
               EZEKIEL 35:13 NLT

When you talk big, you think small.
Are you actually arrogant enough to claim that—
by your power you have accomplished great feats?
by your wisdom you have figured out the riddle of the universe?
by your intelligence and strategy you have conquered the evil one?
by your hard work you have built a financial nest egg?
by your rebellion you have found your own way?

Are you really insolent enough to pit yourself against the Almighty?
Are you conceited enough to feel stronger than the Omnipotent Creator?
Are you egocentric to the point of believing you can do-it-yourself?

The essence of sin is attempting to live independently of Me.
Unchecked pride will cause you to foolishly repeat Lucifer’s folly—
  exalting yourself and claiming to be greater than the Creator;
trusting your ingenuity instead of the Sustainer of the universe;
  feeling stronger than the One who whispered stars into existence.
If you strut, you will stumble—if you brag, you will blush—
  if you carry on, you will get carried away.

I am in heaven and you are on earth—keep your words to a minimum.
Do not multiply words—be quiet and realize that I am God.
Avoid high-sounding speeches, designed to impress others—
  they do not impress Me!

Thank Me for My unfailing love—My mercy that forgives sin,
My grace that helps you endure, My patience that encourages faith.
Worship Me all the time—sing My praises in sunshine and shadow.
Honor Me with all you are—boast only of the cross of My Son.

If you want to brag, brag about the great things I have done for you.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 287, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Bragging Rights

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on September 7, 2021 at 12:26

You boasted proudly against me, and I have heard it all!
EZEKIEL 35:13 NLT

When you talk big, you think small.
Are you actually arrogant enough to claim that—
by your power you have accomplished great feats?
by your wisdom you have figured out the riddle of the universe?
by your intelligence and strategy you have conquered the evil one?
by your hard work you have built a financial nest egg?
by your rebellion you have found your own way?

Are you really insolent enough to pit yourself against the Almighty?
Are you conceited enough to feel stronger than the Omnipotent Creator?
Are you egocentric to the point of believing you can do-it-yourself?

The essence of sin is attempting to live independently of Me.
Unchecked pride will cause you to foolishly repeat Lucifer’s folly—
  exalting yourself and claiming to be greater than the Creator;
trusting your ingenuity instead of the Sustainer of the universe;
  feeling stronger than the One who whispered stars into existence.
If you strut, you will stumble—if you brag, you will blush—
  if you carry on, you will get carried away.

I am in heaven and you are on earth—keep your words to a minimum.
Do not multiply words—be quiet and realize that I am God.
Avoid high-sounding speeches, designed to impress others—
  they do not impress Me!

Thank Me for My unfailing love—My mercy that forgives sin,
My grace that helps you endure, My patience that encourages faith.
Worship Me all the time—sing My praises in sunshine and shadow.
Honor Me with all you are—boast only of the cross of My Son.

If you want to brag, brag about the great things I have done for you.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 287, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Someone You Can Fully Trust

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 30, 2021 at 12:03

Warner Sallman Head of Christ

All the people of Egypt will discover that I am the LORD, for you collapsed like a reed when Israel looked to you for help and leaned on you. Like a cracked staff you splintered and stabbed her in the armpit. She put her weight on you, you gave way, her back was thrown out of joint.
EZEKIEL 29:6-7 NLT

Who or what do you trust?

The world?
Egypt was once magnificent and powerful—
  superpowers are succeeded by others more powerful.

Sinful pleasure?
It is never worth the hangover and the heartache.

Prestige?
Human praise is empty—it can never satisfy your deepest longing.

Possessions?
Making payments on what you call your own is a long treadmill.

People?
Place your confidence in mortals and they can disappoint you.

Military forces?
Aircraft carriers, tanks, infantry, stealth bombers, cruise missiles—
  all are useless means of defense without heaven's shield of blessing.

Riches?
Obsess over money and someday you will meet someone who has not—
  then you will realize how poor you have grown.

God?
Every other staff will break and pierce your hand and heart.
I am the Only Completely Trustable Spot in the entire universe.
Lean your whole weight on My everlasting arms—relax.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 286, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Someone You Can Fully Trust

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 30, 2021 at 11:32

Warner Sallman Head of Christ

All the people of Egypt will discover that I am the LORD, for you collapsed like a reed
when Israel looked to you for help and leaned on you.
Like a cracked staff you splintered and stabbed her in the armpit.
She put her weight on you, you gave way, her back was thrown out of joint.
EZEKIEL 29:6-7 NLT

Who or what do you trust?

The world?
Egypt was once magnificent and powerful—
  superpowers are succeeded by others more powerful.

Sinful pleasure?
It is never worth the hangover and the heartache.

Prestige?
Human praise is empty—it can never satisfy your deepest longing.

Possessions?
Making payments on what you call your own is a long treadmill.

People?
Place your confidence in mortals and they can disappoint you.

Military forces?
Aircraft carriers, tanks, infantry, stealth bombers, cruise missiles—
  all are useless means of defense without heaven's shield of blessing.

Riches?
Obsess over money and someday you will meet someone who has not—
  then you will realize how poor you have grown.

God?
Every other staff will break and pierce your hand and heart.
I am the Only Completely Trustable Spot in the entire universe.
Lean your whole weight on My everlasting arms—relax.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 286, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Why Nations Crumble

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 23, 2021 at 11:56

Look! Your oarsmen are rowing your ship of state into a hurricane!

Your mighty vessel flounders in the heavy eastern gale.

You are shipwrecked in the heart of the sea!

EZEKIEL 27:26 NLT

Babylon became great—but boasted of its greatness, and perished.
Greece grew strong—but trusted its strength, and disappeared.
Rome conquered the world—but worshiped itself, and toppled.
Tyre thought it had it made—international trade made it rich—
then arrogance swelled their head and shriveled their heart.
Their ship of state was a magnificent vessel—the envy of the world.
But that ship of state wrecked on the rocks of self-reliance.
Any nation that acknowledges My lordship will be blessed—
any nation that refuses to bow the knee will be cursed.

Your own nation may be known as a superpower,
but all the nations are a drop in the bucket compared to My power.
Your country may have a reputation for technological sophistication,
but all nations are less than nothing to Me—froth on the sea of life.

An autopsy of a failed nation always reveals the growth of pride.
Hubris in the heart of a nation is a wrecking ball that will destroy it.
Strutting on the stage of history is a sure way to trip and fall.
Carrying on business without God results in moral bankruptcy.

It all begins with you.
Do not imagine you can do wrong without weakening your country.
Do not downgrade the positive effect you can have by a noble example.
Do not think you have no influence over your nation—you certainly do!
If you obey My commands, you will set the pace for your family.
If your home reflects My love, you will encourage your neighborhood.
If your community honors My law, they will model fairness for your city.
If your city respects My ways, they will inspire your state.
If your state aims for justice, your nation will grow in righteousness.
If your nation is righteous, your world will take notice of a better way.
It all begins with you.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 285, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

The Great Reversal

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 16, 2021 at 13:11

God says, “Take your royal crown off your head. No more ‘business as usual.’
The underdog will be promoted and the top dog will be demoted.” EZEKIEL 21:26 THE MESSAGE

Some people will tell you that nothing in the world will ever change.
They are badly mistaken—everything will change someday!
The old order will give way when My Son rules paradise restored.
Old earth will disappear when the new one flourishes.
Old heaven will be history when I erase memory of Lucifer’s rebellion.
Death will be reversed by the Life—old age will be a thing of the past.
Tears will be reversed by the Truth—heartache will be obsolete.
Pain will be reversed by the Way—hospitals will be unnecessary.
The old world and its evils will be reversed by Christ’s new world.

The first now will be last then—those who think they have it made do not.
Haughty egotists will eventually be put in their place.
Those at the end of the line will move to the front—rewarded at last.

I bless the poor in spirit—I will enrich them with the kingdom of heaven.
I bless the brokenhearted—I will comfort them with My grace.
I bless the gentle and lowly—I will give them new earth real estate.
I bless the hungry and thirsty—I will give them a full measure of justice.
I bless the kind and merciful—I will show them abundant mercy.
I bless the pure—I will let them see My face.
I bless the peacemakers—I will call them My sons and daughters.
I bless the persecuted—I will welcome them to My peaceful kingdom.

What will it take to change an old world into a new one? Christ’s return!
The Wonderful Counselor will reverse confusion by unerring guidance.
The Mighty God will reverse defeat by overwhelming victory.
The Everlasting Father will reverse chaos by undisturbed stability.
The Prince of Peace will reverse war by indestructible tranquility.

Joy will fill the earth when I bring about the great reversal.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 284, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Prime Examples

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 9, 2021 at 12:21

Albrecht Durer Praying Hands

Even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were there,
their righteousness would save no one but themselves,
declares the Sovereign LORD.
EZEKIEL 14:14 NLT

Noah preached to a needy world, though the majority ignored him.
He kept at the task I gave him, despite sneers and sarcasm.
Crowds scorned his message and laughed at his boat-building project;
  nevertheless, he hammered away and kept telling My story.
For over a century, Noah warned rebels—with little visible results.
I want you to keep preaching My Word, whether or not people believe.
Stand on My promises and fasten on the belt of timeless Truth.
  Wield the Spirit Sword to counter propaganda of the evil one.
  Whatever the response—herald My Word.

Daniel prayed in a dangerous world, though government threatened him.
Leaders could not keep him off his knees facing the Temple.
  With windows open toward Jerusalem, he prayed three times a day.
  Lions could not kill his steadfast loyalty to Almighty God.
  He worshiped Me continually, so I protected him constantly.
  No matter how antagonistic life gets, hold My hand.
  Whatever the circumstances or the situation—keep hoping.

Job persevered in a short-sighted world, though friends misunderstood him.
On the edge of despair, he held on by his finger-nails and trusted Me.
  Life can be difficult—the lark does not always sing in an April sky.
  Life can be discouraging—futility sometimes clouds the horizon.
  Life can be tiring—apparent pointlessness weakens motivation.
  Life is not a 100-yard dash, but a marathon—run to the finish line.
  Consider your life as time to honor Me, and purpose will energize you.
  When you see your Savior, your efforts will all seem worthwhile.
    Whatever happens—hang on.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 283, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Countdown to Doomsday

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 2, 2021 at 12:14

The end has come! It has finally arrived! Your final doom is waiting!
EZEKIEL 7:6-7a NLT

Ten…
Do you sometimes think life will always be as it is now? Think again!
Things will radically change someday, whether you believe it or not.

Nine…
Do you doubt that My Son will ever return to earth? Depend on it!
When the King puts His foot down, heaven will materialize.

Eight…
Convinced you can do wrong and get away with it? Do not kid yourself!
Every thought, word, and deed is an accurate boomerang.

Seven…
Feel you have unlimited time to straighten out your behavior? No way!
When the trumpet sounds, time is up.

Six…
Strutting in self-righteous splendor? Time to change your wardrobe!
Do not lull yourself to sleep comparing yourself with “inferior” people.

Five…
Looking down on other believers? Dismount your high horse!
Don't be angry you can't change others—you can't even change yourself.

Four…
Judging others for their sinful ways? Take a long look in the mirror!
Everyone—you included—will stand before Christ to be judged.

Three…
Wondering if justice will ever prevail? I will balance the books.
My holy holocaust will incinerate evil—purify your heart before the end.

Two…
Wavering in enthusiasm in My service? Trust My Spirit and keep at it.
Nothing you do for My glory wastes time; inspired work is never useless.

One…
Still trying to please people? They are not your Boss—I am!
Aim to please Me—My smile will be reward enough.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 282, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Countdown to Doomsday

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on August 2, 2021 at 12:14

The end has come! It has finally arrived! Your final doom is waiting!
EZEKIEL 7:6-7a NLT

Ten…
Do you sometimes think life will always be as it is now? Think again!
Things will radically change someday, whether you believe it or not.

Nine…
Do you doubt that My Son will ever return to earth? Depend on it!
When the King puts His foot down, heaven will materialize.

Eight…
Convinced you can do wrong and get away with it? Do not kid yourself!
Every thought, word, and deed is an accurate boomerang.

Seven…
Feel you have unlimited time to straighten out your behavior? No way!
When the trumpet sounds, time is up.

Six…
Strutting in self-righteous splendor? Time to change your wardrobe!
Do not lull yourself to sleep comparing yourself with “inferior” people.

Five…
Looking down on other believers? Dismount your high horse!
Don't be angry you can't change others—you can't even change yourself.

Four…
Judging others for their sinful ways? Take a long look in the mirror!
Everyone—you included—will stand before Christ to be judged.

Three…
Wondering if justice will ever prevail? I will balance the books.
My holy holocaust will incinerate evil—purify your heart before the end.

Two…
Wavering in enthusiasm in My service? Trust My Spirit and keep at it.
Nothing you do for My glory wastes time; inspired work is never useless.

One…
Still trying to please people? They are not your Boss—I am!
Aim to please Me—My smile will be reward enough.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 282, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

God's Gyroscope

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on July 26, 2021 at 14:00

Hubble Telescope image March 15, 2021

As I watched the four creatures, I saw something that looked like a wheel on the ground beside each of the four-faced creatures. The wheels were identical, sparkling like diamonds in the sun. It looked like wheels within wheels, like a gyroscope. EZEKIEL 1:15-16 THE MESSAGE

Creatures in Ezekiel’s vision parallel the gospel portraits of Jesus—
the lion previews Matthew’s King, the ox Mark’s Servant,
the man Luke’s humanity, the eagle John’s God.

As the wheel of time has turned through the generations,
I have been the Home of every believer—their Center of Gravity.
I am without beginning or end, a Circle of infinite power.
I am the Eternal God Who Will Always Be Who I Have Been.

From your heart outwards, let your relationship to Me influence all.
Let every concentric circle in your life be ruled by My love.
Do not think you are a big wheel just because you go around in circles.
Find a valuable life purpose and stick with it through thick and thin.

When you look at the sun, think of the Sun of Righteousness—
permit His healing rays to transform your life into holy health.
When you look at the moon, think of the Light of the world—
reflect His kind nature to everyone around you.
When you look at the constellations, think of the Bright Morning Star—
whistle in the dark as you worship Him and learn His song.
When you look at the earth, think of Almighty God—
trust Me to see you through the years, as I do the orbiting planet.

One day the universe will come full circle—restored to pristine beauty.
Until then count on My Spirit to guide you, My power to stabilize you,
My love to encompass you, and My Presence to encircle you.
You could never find a better gyroscope for your soul.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 281, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Thinking Ahead

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on July 19, 2021 at 11:39

She played fast and loose with life, she never considered tomorrow,
and now she’s crashed royally, with no one to hold her hand.
“Look at my pain, O God! And how the enemy cruelly struts.”
LAMENTATIONS 1:9 THE MESSAGE

After getting burned playing with fire, you say, “I just wasn’t thinking.”
You should have been!
Flirting with temptation starts you on a toboggan ride toward disaster.
Sin’s slippery slope is difficult to exit—it is easier to avoid altogether.
It is foolhardy to only consider the consequences after they hit.
Impulsive choices typically land you in trouble.
Human nature chooses the easy way, and that is usually wrong.

Think back—learn from history that you cannot sin without painful effects.
Reflect on how unpleasant your life became when you acted badly.
Reconsider how complicated relationships got when you misbehaved.

Think ahead—anticipate the awful effects of sin—turn away from it.
Keep in mind the consequences of guilt and grief—avoid doing wrong.
Reflect on how pleasant your life is when you trust and obey Me.

Jerusalem, city of peace, was exiled to heart-wrenching loneliness.
Jerusalem, city of the Great King, was shackled by cruel tyrants.
Jerusalem, the holy city, was orphaned from the Promised Land.
If they had only thought ahead, they could have avoided disaster.

Now it is your turn.
Repent and walk humbly with Me, and I will help you live correctly.
Hold My nail-scarred hand, and I will guide you on a glorious path—
a path of peace and joy, not chaos and heartache.

Want to celebrate victory—not defeat—at sunset?
Then, at sunrise, think ahead!

(c)  Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 280,  Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Who Do You Trust?

Posted by Johnny R. Almond on July 12, 2021 at 11:44

Thus says the LORD of hosts:
“Look! I will break the bow of Elam, the main element of their strength.”
JEREMIAH 49:35 MLB

I destroyed Elam’s “atomic bomb”—the thing they trusted in most.
They felt invulnerable, immune to being hurt—they were dead wrong.
It is the same with all nations—strutting across history’s stage leads to a fall.
I hate pride more than anything else; My fury targets and attacks it.
Self-sufficiency inevitably fails—I am the Only Reliable Homeland Security.

Trusting in military might?
I took Elam’s weapon of choice and broke it over My knee.
I will snap spears in two and burn chariots with fire,
  bringing an end to all combat ravaging the earth.
Strategies of superpowers will not succeed without My blessing.
Nations depending on armies to save them are misplacing their trust—
  only God of the Angel Armies can offer true protection.

Trusting in your own wisdom?
That is not wise because human scholarship is flawed and limited.
Smart-alecks have more to learn than they can possibly imagine.
To mature in understanding, mine the timeless wisdom found in Christ.

Trusting in your physical strength?
I alone never faint or tire; I alone can energize the worn out.
Even young athletes become exhausted and quit the race;
  but those who seek Me discover fresh strength to continue.
In My grace, you can accomplish what self-sufficiency never can—
  soar higher than mediocrity, run faster than temptation,
  and walk farther than faintheartedness.

Trusting in your riches?
If you are not banking on eternal wealth, you will go bankrupt.
If you are not investing in spiritual treasures, you will miss heaven’s best.
At death, you will leave all behind except the wealth of your character.

America says it trusts God; here is the critical question—do you?
You cannot speak for all the country, but you can get a word in for Me.
You cannot choose for the entire nation, but you can decide for Me.
You can depend on Me—so never declare your independence from Me.

(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 279, Gentle Whispers from Eternity