The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
                                                     Romans 6:23  NLT

When you’re dead to sin, you can be devoted to the Savior.

     Identified with Christ’s death through baptism, you have died to sin—

          a corpse does not sin, so consider yourself unresponsive to evil.

     As Christ was resurrected from the dead by My glorious power,

          so you are enabled by My Spirit to rise above the world’s selfishness.

     Decisively treat carnal desires and devilish lures of your human nature

          as if they were dead—only then can you learn how to really live.

     Bury your dark lifestyle—let Me resurrect you to a light-filled world. 

     Crucify your rotten nature—let Me adjust attitudes in fresh directions.

     You have a new focus—heaven dominates your thoughts.

When you’re delivered from addiction, sing doxologies to the Almighty. 

     By My power, you can be unshackled from harsh slavery to the evil one.

     Captured by grace and captivated by Christ, you are indeed free.

     By My omnipotence, you can be liberated from old degrading habits.

     Yielded joyfully to Christ, you discover far nobler ways to live.

     A non-conformist to the world, you are transformed by My Holy Spirit.

     Serve Me not in boring letter of the law, but creative ways of My Spirit. 

     Tossing slave’s rags and donning saint’s clothes, you sport a new wardrobe—

          tenderheartedness, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

     When you trust Me, I do not turn you into a robot—I let you choose.

     You have new freedom—deciding for My purpose is a grand lifestyle.

When you leave Satan’s dead-end trail, you can travel the King’s Highway.

     Live only for self-gratification and you will ruin your life and wind up dead.

     Live for My honor and you will ultimately reach My home and see My smile. 

     It is impossible to remain neutral; here is the choice you must make—

          surrender to My mastery and be blessed, or yield to sin and be cursed.

     Those rejecting Me have hell to pay; those trusting Me have heaven to enjoy.

     Hell and heaven are eternal opposites—

          painful darkness or perpetual light, cold hate or heart-warming love,

          despondent hopelessness or delightful joy, awful punishment or paradise.

     Do not be duped by Satan’s temptations—his party has an eternal hangover.       

     Satan offers happiness but it is only transient—I am saving the best for last. 

     Walking in My steps is not easy, but the destination will thrill you forever. 

     You have a new future—a perspective helping you march forward in hope. 
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                                    Gentle Whispers from Eternity

                            We know how dearly God loves us, 

because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

                                      Romans 5:5 NLT

Faith is the key to heaven’s infinite resources—

     unlocking a treasure chest enriching the depths of your innermost being. 

Kneeling in repentance and trust, you enter a place of highest privilege—

     ruled by the King of kings, loved and cared for as the apple of God’s eye,

     inseparably united to the Sovereign of the universe.

Explore these deep treasures I have placed in your heart—and celebrate.

Hope in My promises is a powerful antidote to the poison of despair.

Looking around can be discouraging, but looking forward lifts your spirit.     

Rest assured I will keep My Word—the future is as bright as My promises. 

Listen to My future melody—cheerfully laugh in anticipation of heaven.

In the meantime, until glory materializes—dance to My jig of joy.

The Bright Morning Star shines in your heart—live confidently.

Joy in problems is a precious alleviation for the pain of despondency. 

Adversity University teaches valuable lessons you’d never learn otherwise.

Hang in there—character-building experiences draw you nearer Me.

My Spirit cascades through your personality bringing out-of-this-world joy. 

I intend to finish what I started in your life—enjoy the divine process.

The Mighty God energizes your heart—live delightfully

Peace in perplexity is a practical answer to the puzzle of distress.

Pressure will not crush you; perplexity will not make you give up and quit;

     getting knocked down will not stop your forward progress,  

     if you use My recipe for peace—pray about all; thank Me for answers;

          in response I will guard your mind and heart by thoughts of My Son. 

When perplexing cares crowd your inmost self, I am near to cheer your soul. 

The Prince of Peace reigns in your heart—live calmly.

Love in My Presence is priceless assurance in the pressures of doubt. 

I have marked you as belonging to Me by placing My Spirit in your heart.

Adam’s family line brings death, but Christ’s family line brings life.

Celebrate your identity, call Me Father, and count on your Greatest Friend.         

The name of the eternal city is The Lord Is There—that is why it is heaven. 

The Everlasting Father lives in your heart—live optimistically. 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                         

                                         Gentle Whispers from Eternity

           Remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.

                                               Matthew 28:20 NTME

I was with you yesterday—

     In your naiveté, I guided you perfectly.

     In your sincerity, I blessed you abundantly.

     In your trouble, I sustained you gracefully.

     In your rebellion, I convicted you mercifully.

     In your doubts, I reassured you tenderly.

     In your sickness, I healed you miraculously.

     In your worry, I watched over you closely.

I am with you today—

     In your sin, I forgive you compassionately.

     In your discouragement, I buoy you helpfully.

     In your sadness, I cheer you nearly.

     In your responsibilities, I empower you supernaturally.

     In your frustrations, I calm you peacefully.

     In your loneliness, I accompany you lovingly.

I will always be there for you—

     When the night depresses, I will be your Bright Morning Star.

     When the morning dawns, I will still be with you—faithful as sunrise.

     I will never leave you on your own, to your own devices.

     I rose from the dead—I can help you with your big and little problems.

     I triumphed over the tomb—I can give you victory over bad habits.

     Every heartbeat, breath, step, hour, day, season—I will stand by you.

     Until the end of the present earth—and beyond—I am by your side.

     I am your Travel Guide—follow My directions carefully.

     I am your Greatest Friend—enjoy the pleasure of My company.

No force can ever cancel My love for you—I guarantee it.

     In sunshine and shadow, pain and pleasure, doubt and confidence,

          you can be absolutely sure I am there for you—I promise.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond             Day 312, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind—no one could tell where it came from.
It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks 
and they started speaking in a number of different languages s the Spirit prompted them. 
                                           Acts 2:2-4 THE MESSAGE

Let My Divine Wind blow through your life and cleanse you of iniquity.

     I sweep away moral trash if you turn your heart in My direction.

     I move you toward My will if you turn your heart away from all evil.

     I flood you with light if you firmly refuse to walk in perverse darkness. 

     I purify you if you let My holy hurricane roar through your inner being.

     I burn away all undesirable elements if you let Me baptize you with fire.

     I reassure you of My love if you nestle near My heart and detest sin.

     I give you joy too wonderful for words if you trust My omniscient mind.

Let My Vitalizing Breath ignite your passion and set your soul aflame.

     I resurrect you to new life if you desert your egocentric deadness.

     I soak you with My Spirit rain if you grow tired of emotional drought.

     I help the young envision a brighter future if you believe My promises.

     I help the old dream of a painless, tearless, deathless day if you trust Me.

     I let you find life’s noblest purpose if you serve Me wholeheartedly.

     I embolden you to live courageously if you hold My omnipotent hand.

Let My Holy Spirit change you from inside out and revolutionize your life.

     I cheer your heart if you become intoxicated with heaven’s sweet wine.

     I lead you to know the truth if you turn a deaf ear to Satan’s propaganda.

     I help you speak My native tongue if you are weary of the evil one’s dialect.

     I teach you to speak beautiful languages if you want to learn them—

       sacrificial love, not selfish talk; invulnerable joy, not ungrateful whining;

       calm peace, not restless chatter; lasting patience, not ignorant criticism;

       kindness, not insensitive small talk; lavish generosity, not stingy self-talk;

       dutiful loyalty, not dropout talk; angelic gentleness, not rude sarcasm;

       supernatural self-control, not indulgent devilspeak.

     I inspire spontaneous creativity if you do not extinguish My eternal flame.

     I energize you to do what pleases Me if you rely on My unlimited grace.

     I empower you to accomplish all I ask if you trust My almighty power.

     I grant you pleasure of my company if you seek My omnipresent Spirit.

I am able to do infinitely more than you could ever ask, wish, or imagine.   

     Pray your highest prayer—I will answer by sculpting you into My image. 

     Share your fondest dream with Me—I will make it come true in My time.

     I am your Center of Gravity—be sure you never stifle My Holy Spirit.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                                Gentle Whispers from Eternity

               Advancing God’s Kingdom

     When the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power

                    and will tell people about me everywhere—

in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

                                      Acts 1:8 NLT
 

My Kingdom is not a nation or territory protected by military forces.

It is not a government established and governed by political processes.

My reign is neither visible nor earthly—it is spiritual and heavenly.

I rule an eternal Empire of Love in believing human hearts.

I give you the honor of serving Me—work with enthusiasm. 

The Book of Acts is not a story of passive spectators, but active servants.

Carry on the unfinished task of zealously sharing My glorious gospel.

Worship Me, do not just admire Me; follow Me, do not merely be a fan.

Standing around staring at the sky waiting for My return? Get busy!

My business is the most serious you could ever possibly engage in.

I made you a Kingdom Advance Ambassador—make a conscious effort!

I am your Boss—work hard for Me, and do not try to impress people.

Avoid apathy—prove you sincerely love Me by passionate intensity.

I bless you with the help of My Spirit—wait for empowerment.

Want to soar above the world’s mediocrity? Rely on Almighty power. 

I can do infinitely more than your highest thoughts, wishes, or dreams.

Nothing is too hard for Me—grace turns impossibilities into miracles. 

I am your Counselor guiding you through life’s perplexing labyrinth.

I am your Helper enabling you to celebrate victory over the Adversary.

I am your Intercessor praying for you in life’s tiring and trying times. 

I am your Defense Counsel taking your side against the Accuser.

I am your Strengthener readying you for all the world may throw at you.

I am your Standby accompanying you every heartbeat, day and season.

You are powerless without Me, unproductive on your own.

Honor Me—succeed in My eyes and turn your world upside down.

Overcome weakness—never forget the critical importance of prayer.

I call you to tell the world of the hope of the Savior—witness to everyone.

I am the King of trusting hearts; I am the Sovereign of obedient minds.

Do your part to contribute to the ever-widening circle of My message of love. 

Time is in My hands and so is eternity—I will return in judgment.

Life is no dress rehearsal—repent while you can; advise others to do the same.

Conquer despair—spread news far and wide of My promised bright future.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                     Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master.

Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are.

                                           1 Peter 3:15  THE MESSAGE

In a superficial world, heart-beauty is the meaning of character.

The madness of appearance is more concerned with looks than real life.

Ego can be senseless.

Practice the regimen of grace and be changed from the inside out.

     Value character above cosmetics—beauty is more than skin-deep.

     Be gentle and quiet—qualities I find more attractive than gold.

     Trust Me at all times—faith is lovelier than any face-lift.   

In a selfish world, helpfulness is the meaning of compassion.

The madness of apathy enthrones self and leaves no room for others.

Egotism is stupid.

Travel the boulevard of blessing.

     Seek unity and enjoy peace.

     Be courteous and increase your influence.

     Be kind to your enemies and demonstrate maturity I am looking for.

In a sinful world, holiness is the meaning of Christlikeness.

The madness of arrogance is self-centered and off-centered.

Egocentricity is sinful. 

Make a conscious effort to live a holy lifestyle.

     Run for all you are worth from anything that stimulates evil desires.

     Concentrate on anything that encourages you to do right. 

     Focus on faith, love and peace—avoid worry, hatred and discord.

In a scared world, hallelujah is the meaning of calm.

The madness of alarm is beside itself over personal safety.

Egomania is scared.

Discover the secret of My peace.

     Stay composed in the eye of the storm—unafraid of circumstances.

     Remain tranquil in chaos—unintimidated by terrorists.

     Trust Me in trouble—unruffled by adversity.

In a skeptical world, hope is the meaning of confidence.

The madness of atheism results in complete despair.

Ego trips are one-way, dead-end roads to hell. 

Avoid becoming a road worrier.

     I will have the last word—what I say goes.

     I will win the last war—what I do counts.

     I will have your lasting worship—who I am endures.

I am your Meaning in the madness—seek My wisdom for each day.

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                                Gentle Whispers from Eternity

                                                    My times are in your hands.

                                                          Psalm 31:15 NIV
 

I am the Timeless God—holiness to cancel yesterday’s sins.

     My grace transforms your down-on-yourself guilt into upbeat gladness.

     I have not rejected you—I have given you Christ’s righteousness.

     You are a sinner by nature—you do not deserve or merit My love.

     My Son is perfect—He did not deserve what happened to Him at Calvary.

     Like Barabbas, it should have been you; instead, you are free.

     I am your forgiveness.

I am the Enough God—Hiding Place to calm today’s sorrows.

     I shelter you from accusing tongues, sustain you through distress,

          and save you from the addictive power of sin.

     I am your Time-out from the rat race and Anchor on high seas.

     When your daily schedule gets crazy and hectic, take a deep breath—

          breathe out worry about possibilities, breathe in worship;

          breathe out fear of contingencies; breathe in faith in My power.

     I am your Fortress.

I am the Unchanging God—hope to celebrate tomorrow’s surprises.

     In all the universe, I alone will always be who I have always been.

     I made promises I intend to keep—My faithfulness will not fail.

     Anticipate the ultimate fulfillment of My perfect plan—

          believe the overcast unknown will brighten in My time.

     Whatever change comes your way, rest assured I will keep My word.

     For the time being, rely on Me to lead you in honorable paths,

          rescue you from the evil one’s malicious strategies,

          and reinforce you to bravely move ahead.

     In your darkest times, keep believing in Light beyond light—

          follow your Guide across the fearful ravine to Tranquility Meadow.

     I am your future.

Count on My unchanging love to absolve your embarrassing past,

     accompany you on your present journey, and guarantee your heavenly home.  Place yesterday, today and tomorrow in My hands—

     then you can enjoy the time of your life!

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                        Day 204, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

         The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. 

                                           Psalm 23:1
 

     I lovingly embrace you and faithfully carry you close to My heart. What difference does it really make? All the difference in the world!  When you follow Me as your Shepherd, l take good care of you.
 

     Hungry? I alone can satisfy your heart’s deepest hunger. Like a sheep after a satisfying meal, you lie down in a green meadow to take a nap—content.

     Falling apart under stress? Take My hand—I will lead you by peaceful streams where you will not be frightened and you can enjoy My poise.

     Tottering? Look to Me and find strength for life’s challenges—soar higher than mediocrity, run faster than temptation, and walk farther than lethargy.  Find renewed energy in the pleasure of My company.

     Yearning to be holy? My paths are right and honorable—walk on them and grow in My likeness.
 

     Troubled at the thought of dying? Do not fear—I am with you. I will protect and comfort you as you cross the dark valley to the city of light.

     Encircled by foes? Take a seat at My table—enjoy a meal with Me.

     Hurting? Divine hospitality cures your headache and heartache.

     Unhappy? Look around—then look up and thank Me for the overflowing blessings in your life. I do not just hang one star in the sky—I spangle your nights with countless awesome constellations. I do not plant only a single         flower for your viewing enjoyment—I arrange whole fields. I do more than toss an occasional blessing—blessings cascade from My heart to yours day after day.

     Feeling unloved in an uncaring world? Nestle near My heart, and My goodness and unfailing love will warm yours. It can be a cold, cruel world—as I learned firsthand when I visited your tilted planet—but I am the heartwarming God.

     Longing for permanence? Heaven on earth will bring you an unchanging address. Better than hope-so, maybe-so, guess-so talk—know-so confidence faces forever with unflinching faith in your Shepherd. I am your Center of Gravity—everything you need in time and in eternity. Follow Me—I will get you home.

(c)  Pastor Johnny R. Almond                       Day 200, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Were not our hearts greatly moved and burning within us  while He was talking with us on the road
as He opened and explained to us the sense of the Scriptures?
Luke 24:32 THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE
 

Saddened by emptiness?

     Obey Me, and I will make Myself real to you.

     Trade a long face for a smile—be a good advertisement for the gospel.

     I am your Source of Music—sing out for the entire world to hear.

Entombed by loneliness?

     You are never alone—I walk alongside you on every road you travel.

     When perplexing cares crowd your heart, I console and cheer you.

     I am your Greatest Friend—you have not lost Me, so dance for joy.

Afraid of death?

     Hear My reassuring voice and overcome Satan-coaxed anxiety.

     Death Valley terror disappears as you realize shadows mean Light.

     I am your Life—I will defeat all enemies, so count on ultimate victory.

Losing hope?

     Open the eyes of your heart and envision My promised bright future.

     Wait patiently for My new world to materialize—be brave-hearted.

     I am your Center of Gravity—hide in Me and unflinchingly trust.

Perplexed by despair?

     Guilt, death, hopelessness, angst, and gloom burden your heart.

     Grace, vitality, hope, faith, mercy, and freedom bless your heart.

     I am your Redeemer—hang on for dear life—all is well.

Walk life’s road with Me—and I will change dejection to delight,

     skepticism to optimism, despair to hope, restlessness to tranquility,   

     depression to ecstasy, self-pity to praise, and doubt to worship.

     I am your God—rest assured.

                                         

(c)  Pastor Johnny R. Almond                            Day 319, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

             The 

                                                   Peace be with you.

                                                            John 20:19

I give you poise in earth’s scary situations.

     There is no need to be intimidated by people—they are all mortals. 

     Do not tremble before human beings—fear Me and nothing else.

     I am your omnipotent Helper, so do not let fear get the best of you. 

          There is no need to lock doors—I am your omnipotent Protector.

     I whispered stars into existence—I know their names and yours too.   

          I direct intergalactic traffic patterns—I orchestrate details of life. 

     I will never leave you—My Presence is your failsafe security system. 

          Every heartbeat, step, and season of your life—I am with you.

     I give you tough shoes for hard roads—I am your equilibrium equation. 

          I will always love you—My care is your unflinching courage. 

     Rely on the Almighty to see you through trouble—find true serenity.

I give you pardon in your guilty struggles.

     Religious ceremonies are futile—My blood is your way to forgiveness.

          My grace is your only hope of removing guilt’s oppressive burden. 

     Self-talk does not ease doubt—My Spirit is your assurance of heaven. 

          When I make Myself at home in your heart, you can rest easy. 

     Let Me calm your heart—experience the tranquility of inner-stances. 

I give you My promise all will be well in your uncertain tomorrows.

     I walk ahead of you into the future—

          I live in the eternal now—I am who I have been and who I will be.

     Call Me Rabboni—your very own Teacher—follow Me into tomorrow. 

          My heart is your unassailable fortress, a home where you can rest.

     Heaven on earth is not too good to be true; nor is it too good to last.

          After smoke clears in the battle of good and evil, you’ll enjoy victory. 

          A new earth will replace an evil world—I guarantee it.  

     Trust My Word—know supernatural composure facing eternity.  

     Keep faith in your Invisible Means of Support—be an eternal optimist.

          You cannot know how faith in an unseen One brings ecstasy,

               but do not let your lack of understanding stifle your enthusiasm.

          My close friendship is your joy too wonderful for words. 

     There is no need to go around wringing your hands—

          take My wounded hand; you can trust Me. 

     Focus on Me and I will bless you with peace nothing can disturb. 

          My supernatural gift is your peace of mind.

`

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond                               Gentle Whispers from Eternity