As soon as trouble comes, they will search for me.
HOSEA 5:15 NLT
Sunshine, lollipops, and roses can create self-dependency.
Feeling you have it made, you feel no need of Me.
Riding high, you assume you can get by without the Most High.
Supremely self-confident, you essentially put prayer on the shelf.
When the sun stops shining and storms roll in, you get serious with Me.
When life turns bittersweet, you earnestly seek My face.
When flowers fade and die, you go back to the eternal Book.
Sensing you cannot survive on your own, you cry out for My assistance.
Experiencing a low point, you try to make sense of it all through faith.
Hurting deeply, you consult the Great Physician.
Sadness can actually be a doorway to ecstasy.
Stoics take it on the chin and go on; Epicureans party and try to forget.
Christians have a unique perspective—trouble is a chance for joy.
When your faith is tested, fortitude has an opportunity to develop.
In a crucible, you learn a valuable lesson—strength is born in weakness.
Insults do not change who you are—I know you, that is all that matters.
Hard times will not destroy you—I care, and that will see you through.
Opposition cannot separate us—I love you, and that will keep us friends.
Calamities cannot kill you—I stand under you, and I will hold you together.
Pressure from all sides will not crush the trusting soul.
Perplexity will not cause the believing heart to drop out of the race.
Getting knocked down will not keep persevering saints down for good.
Life is wonderful—overflowing with blessings all along the journey.
But when there is trouble on the road, I am your Grand Support.
Search for Me with all your heart—it will be worth all the trouble.
Life is sweet and beautiful in many ways—there are many roses.
Yet every rose has a thorn—that hurts, but that too, can be a blessing.
(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 293, Gentle Whispers from Eternity
The people who know their God shall be steadfast and will accomplish notable feats.
DANIEL 11:32 MLB
Wait on Me—be strong.
Still your soul in My Presence, breathe deeply of My Spirit, and relax.
Watch what I do with galaxies—let Me control the orbit of your life.
Rely on Me when life is falling apart—stay calm in heavy traffic.
Wait—soar over mediocrity, run from evil, walk beyond weariness.
Worship Me—be steady.
If faith brings persecution, persist—hard times refine pure gold.
Follow your Great Example, the One called Faithful and True.
In all circumstances be joyful, prayerful, thankful, clay in My hands.
Worship—give Me your heart, and I will give you Mine.
Want My Word—be studious.
Internalize eternal truths; uncompromisingly follow holy principles.
Do not carry around opinions; be carried around by convictions.
Be a true disciple—keep on obeying My teachings over your lifetime.
Treasure the Bible—make it your Textbook for Living.
Work for Me—be sincere.
The insincere lose heart and desert the ranks of My army.
The sincere take heart and remain steadfastly enthused in My service.
Realizing who your Boss is, work diligently—whistle while you work.
Do quality work to please Me, not people—My smile will be your reward.
Watch your step—be successful.
Temptation is a battleground—doggedly persist and we will win.
In your weakness, hold My hand—I will keep you from stumbling.
One day you will be like Christ—make a conscious effort today.
Watch your step—walk in Jesus’ footsteps and truly succeed.
The strategy for victory is profoundly simple—continue.
(c) Pastor Johnny R. Almond
Day 292, Gentle Whispers from Eternity
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
