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Hull's Memorial Baptist Church
 Pastor's Blog 
Wednesday, July 10 2019

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

Psalm 25:1 ESV
 

     I am the Most High God—Ruler of the universe, God above all,   King of kings and Lord of lords. No judge is greater than Me—      when you rest your case in heaven’s supreme court, no lesser court can overturn My ruling. When you sin, My Son pleads your case as your Defense Counsel.  My not guilty verdict is irreversible. 
 

     No commander outranks Me— when you follow My orders, you are following the best strategy to win life’s battles. When dark forces attack, they cannot extinguish the Light. 
 

     No force can overpower Me—so when you depend on My strength, you are energized and encouraged to tackle life’s challenges. Faith transforms impossible situations. Nothing is beyond My power— receive My help and you can do whatever I ask of you.
 

     Lifting up your soul to Me is your most uplifting experience.  In My Presence, you are as high as you can be. When you lift up your soul to Me, I lift you up. Finding Me is an uplifting experience. I am your Vindication—the Beginning of the journey.
 

     Leaning on Me guarantees your triumph. Faith in Me is an uplifting experience. Trust Me and enjoy peace of mind. I am your Victory—   the Beauty of the journey.
            

     Learning from Me educates you in truth. Familiarity with Me is an uplifting experience. Obey Me and I will make Myself real to you. I am your Vision—the Best of the journey.
   

     Loved by Me, you are changed. Forgiveness is an uplifting experience.      I am the Secret of invulnerable joy. Unfailing Love sustains you every heartbeat. Mercy holds you together. I am your Vitality—the Blessing of the journey.   
 

     Lift up your soul to Me—loving God, ruling King, merciful Sacrifice.  Then you will experience life’s highest possible joy!
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond—Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 10:15 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Tuesday, July 02 2019

Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer

and did not withdraw his unfailing love from me.

Psalm 66:20 NLT
 

I have not rejected your prayer—I have responded to you.

When you confess your wrongdoing, I cleanse your soul.

When you cry out in desperation, I pay attention to your pain.

When you plead for help, I do not turn a deaf ear.

Prayer is always a local call—wherever you are, I can hear you.

Praise Me for an audience with the King.
 

I have not restricted your praise—I have released you.

You do not have to hide your faith as a secret disciple—breathe free.

You do not have to stifle your joy—sing My praises for the entire world.

I have made you genuinely rich by giving you a contented mind.

Praise Me for invulnerable joy greater than any earthly happiness.
 

I have not refused your pleas—I have reinforced you.

My awesome miracles on your behalf irrefutably prove My love.

Enemies of your soul, including the evil one, cringe at My power.

Trust in Me—and trouble will not get you down.

Stay close to Me—and the prince of the world will not conquer you.

Praise Me for supernatural assistance.
 

I have not removed your problems—I have refined you.

Adversity is My University—trust Me and pass the tests of your faith.

Low points teach you lessons you would never learn any other way.

The fiery crucible purges filth—trying floodwaters remove debris.

I defend in guilt, comfort in sorrow, and encourage in frustration.

Praise Me for being your Travel Companion on rough roads.
 

I have not renounced My promises—I have redeemed you.

My Son became a Sacrificial Lamb to buy your freedom from sin.

I keep all My promises to you—I am the God of My Word.

With all my heart, I love you—love Me the same way.

Praise Me for the honor of serving the God of Truth and Love.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 217 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 02:50 pm   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, June 24 2019

Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord.

Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.

Psalm 5:3 NLT
 

Good morning! This is a good time for you to praise Me. I watched over you and kept you safe through night’s refreshing sleep. My Spirit sang a lullaby to your heart—now I am your wake-up call. My compassions are new every morning. My faithfulness never fails. My mercy is infinite. In the morning—first thing when you awake—as the last thing you did before you closed your eyes in sleep, celebrate My love. Let prayer be the key to lock the night, and the key to open the morning. Morning is good—worship Me.

 

Good morning! This is a good time for you to petition My throne. Let Me know what troubles your heart, thank Me for answers to prayer, and I will bless you with peace beyond description or analysis or comprehension. Anxiety and doubt melt away on the holy ground beneath your knees. Morning is good—at My throne make all your wants and wishes known.
 

Good morning! This is a good time for you to exercise patience. Wait for Me—hope in My promises. Yearn for My Presence more than security guards long for the morning shift to relieve their tiring watch. Count on My Word. Morning is good—it is My waiting room.
 

Good morning! This is a good time for you to celebrate the sunrise of faith driving away fear’s night. Delightful daybreak drives away scary nightmares and dark depression. Though you weep through a long, dark night of the soul, joy will dawn. You may trudge through shadows of pain now, but you will dance in the glory of paradise in My good time. The return of the King will transform earth’s mourning into eternity’s morning. Morning is good—redefining the word wonderful.
 

Good morning! This is a good time for you to mark the beginning of a new day of your life. Recognize My guiding voice, renew your vow to be loyal to Me, and reshape your vision. In the dewy morning hours, rediscover Me as your Savior, Hiding Place, Song, and Center of Gravity. Morning is good—opening the windows of My love.
 

At daybreak lay your case before Me as your Defense Counsel. Resolve to keep your eyes on Me through every hour of this day. At sunset, you will have no cause to hang your head in shame—instead, you can celebrate the victories that began early in the morning.
 


 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 193 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 02:30 pm   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, June 17 2019

Then Job replied to the Lord:
“I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted.”
Job 42:1-2 NIV
 

The experience classroom is where you learn profound wisdom. The school of hard knocks presents a tough curriculum, but what you learn experientially alters you more than what you learn academically.
 

The first lesson you need to learn is that My power is unlimited. If you treat Me as Lord of your life, nothing I ask will be too hard for you to do. Humanly speaking, some challenges are outside the realm of possibility—     but within My realm of grace everything is possible.
 

Another reality you need to grasp is I have a plan for your life.  I orchestrate a master plan for your good. Death’s terror, life’s problems, demon’s distractions, and the future’s worries cannot kill My love. Pain sculpts you into Christ’s image, if you submit to the Sculptor. Through difficult circumstances, I teach you the principle of trust. In the valley, you learn lessons you would never learn on the mountain.
 

The truth you most need to know is the reality of My Presence. Hearing about Me secondhand is interesting; seeing Me for yourself is transforming.     I am your Travel Companion on the journey of life. My Spirit shines brightly in your darkest night. Follow My lead, and you cannot go wrong. Trust Me, and you will forever be glad you did.
 

You need to learn the value of intercessory prayer. Even after Job’s friends misjudged and harshly criticized him, he prayed for them. When people hurl accusations at you or question your motives, you may not feel like praying for them; but faith demands that you do. Jesus intercedes for you. Follow His example—be thoughtful of others’ needs.
 

Learn day-by-day the riches of My provision. I blessed Job in the autumn of his life more than in the spring. I will do the same for you. Everything you need—in every season of life—I will lavishly provide. Whatever happens, count on Me—everything will be fine.
 

Finally, you will learn the reward of My peace. Like the wine at Cana’s feast, I saved the best for last for Job. Double blessings after his ordeal confirmed My love. He persevered, so I caused a joyful outcome. Endure hard times, and I will bless you with lasting joy. Learn My lessons well—            then graduate from Adversity University with highest honors.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 192 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: AT 11:39 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, June 03 2019

I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one can come to the Father except through me.
John 14:6 NLT
 

I am the only Road that leads to the destination of glory.

Convicted of sin, do a repentant U-turn and travel the King’s Highway.

Challenged by righteousness, set out to be like your Sinless Savior.

Convinced of judgment, make a conscious effort to prepare yourself.

My death on the cross paved the highway to the Father’s future.

My blood on your soul marks you as a child of God He will not disown.

Follow the Way—and be confident of reaching heaven.
 

I am the only Reality that defines goodness.

Lied to by the dark prince, turn a deaf ear to his brainwashing.

Led by the Spirit of truth, listen well and learn life’s greatest lessons.

Loved by the One knowing you best, stay near and enjoy My company.

My light liberates you to sing for joy in the Father’s freedom.

My Spirit in your mind teaches you truth you would not learn otherwise.

Learn the Truth—and be changed for good from the inside out.
 

I am the only Redeemer who distributes grace.

Attacked by the evil one, do not forget that he is a hateful killjoy.

Attracted by the Holy Spirit, surrender and know life in all its fullness.

Approved by the Father, revel in His love and rest assured of heaven.

My promise guarantees the bright tomorrow of the Father’s festival.

My melody in your heart instructs you in faith’s dance of joy.

Celebrate the Life—and be cheerful in all circumstances.
 

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Your search for heaven, significance, and vitality ends in My heart.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 323 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 10:45 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Wednesday, May 29 2019

You are Yahweh, Most High over all the earth, far transcending all gods.

Psalm 97:9 TNJB
 

I am Most High over earth—exalt Me above false gods of the heart.

Idols are low-life—I am the Infinite High God.

Idols are deaf—I pay attention to every prayerful word.

Idols are heartless and insensitive—I care deeply about you.

Idols are blind—I am aware of every agony, attitude, and action.

Take the high road of eminent domain, not the low road of idolatry.

Surrender to My Transcendent Highness!


 

I am Most High over everything—understand that idolatry is insanity.

Decisions built on atheism construct a dead-end road.

Take the high road of enthusiastic devotion, not the low road of irreverence.

Submit in thoughtful homage!
 

I am Most High over ethics—live as a child of the Light.

Avoid shadows—do not scurry like a cockroach in dark corners.

Stay close to My heart and make Me the Tour Guide on your journey,

     then you will not be down-in-the-mouth for fear of being found out.

Take the high road of excellent determination, not the low road of iniquity.

Struggle on in My transforming holiness!
 

I am Most High over eternity—feel for people who are joyless.

Let your heart go out to those who do not worship Me—

     people who will one day sadly experience My wrath firsthand.

The other side of mercy’s coin has a cutting edge—there is hell to pay!

Take the high road of expectant deliverance, not the low road of incredulity.

See the terrifying hereafter!
 

I am Most High over ecstasy—honor My reign as King of the cosmos.

I am Lord of the universe—so all will ultimately be right with the world.

With very little to celebrate in your unbalanced world,

     here is a great reason to rejoice—I am redeeming you from sin.

Someday it will become crystal clear that I am absolutely right—

     and that I am earth’s Rightful Ruler.

Take the high road of exultant delight, not the low road of indifference.

Sing in triumphant happiness!
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 230 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 09:01 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, May 21 2019

Come into the Light by Glenn Gemmel
 

The Way to the Truth of Life
 

I am the way, the truth, and the life.  John 14:6 NLT
 

I am the only Road that leads to the destination of glory.

Convicted of sin, do a repentant U-turn and travel the King’s Highway.

Challenged by righteousness, set out to be like your Sinless Savior.

Convinced of judgment, make a conscious effort to prepare yourself.

My death on the cross paved the highway to the Father’s future.

My blood on your soul marks you as a child of God He will not disown.

Follow the Way—and be confident of reaching heaven.
 

I am the only Reality that defines goodness.

Lied to by the dark prince, turn a deaf ear to his brainwashing.

Led by the Spirit of truth, listen well and learn life’s greatest lessons.

Loved by the One knowing you best, stay near and enjoy My company.

My light liberates you to sing for joy in the Father’s freedom.

My Spirit in your mind teaches you truth you would not learn otherwise.

Learn the Truth—and be changed for good from the inside out.
 

I am the only Redeemer who distributes grace.

Attacked by the evil one, do not forget that he is a hateful killjoy.

Attracted by the Holy Spirit, surrender and know life in all its fullness.

Approved by the Father, revel in His love and rest assured of heaven.

My promise guarantees the bright tomorrow of the Father’s festival.

My melody in your heart instructs you in faith’s dance of joy.

Celebrate the Life—and be cheerful in all circumstances.
 

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Your search for heaven, significance, and vitality ends in My heart.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 323 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 11:26 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, May 13 2019

You know these things—now do them! That is the path of blessing.
John 13:17 NLT
 

Reverence My path of authority—know and understand that I am Lord.

     My Father gave Me dominion over everything—I am Sovereign over all.

          I Am Who I Am—I Will Always Be Who I Have Always Been.

          I am Alpha and Omega, God’s Holy Alphabet—First Light, Last Word.

          To receive My blessing of peace, surrender to My absolute control.

     I came down from heaven to save the world—I am the Son of God.      

          I have always loved you and I always will—there is no greater comfort. 

          I am the Way to Truth of Life—the key to reality, wisdom, and eternity.

          To receive My blessing of optimism, believe I am who I say I am. 
 

Walk My path of action—practice daily the way of Life I teach you.

     I condescended to become a human being—and to live as a servant.

          Earthlings are intent on upward mobility—I model downward mobility. 

          The way up is down—Servant Path winds through neighborhood pain. 

          I went around doing good, so be careful that you do not just go around.

          Christianity is made for the road, not just for the church building.

          To receive My blessing of friendship, obey Me unquestioningly.

     I change you from inside out into My holy image—sanctifying your life

          Focus more on holiness than hygiene; value character above reputation.   

          Let Me wash your hands—let everything you do in your body honor Me.

          Let Me wash your head—let all you think with your mind please Me.

          Let Me wash your feet—let everywhere you go bless your soul.

          Stay on the path of everlasting life—avoid self-destructive detours.

          I give you a clear conscience, a joyful melody, and a buoyant step. 

          To receive My blessing of purity, plead for mercy and count on My love. 
 

Follow My path of affection—demonstrate to the world that I am Love. 

     By example I have shown you to be sympathetic

          The law to love equally is old—the order to love sacrificially is new.

          Loving neighbors is Old Testament—loving saints is New Testament. 

          Cry tears with the brokenhearted—let your heart care like I do.

          I proved My love on Skull Hill; now prove yours wherever you live.       

          To receive My blessing of fulfillment, learn to really care for others.

     Love people in My church—give the world a sign you are My disciple. 

          Don’t say you love the invisible God, if you don’t love visible humans. 

          The mark of genuine discipleship is love for those who walk in My steps.  

          To receive My blessing of purpose, help those walking the way with you. 
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond;  Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 11:09 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, May 06 2019

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.
John 10:10 NLT

I am the good Shepherd who faithfully leads you into tomorrow.

I x-ray your heart—I understand your habits, hang-ups, and hurts.

I know your geographical, emotional and spiritual coordinates. 

I walk ahead of you into the future—I already know what’s ahead.   

When you step into tomorrow, you will find Me there, as I am today. 
I live in the eternal now, and My love for you never changes.

Nestle near My heart and learn to recognize My voice.

Trust Me and your cup will be brimming with blessing after blessing.

Use My map and discover beautiful, peace-and-quiet locations.                       

Wait for Me and receive strength to persevere through difficulty.

Hold My hand and experience poise even in Death Valley.

Depend on My security system and be safe and sound whatever happens. 

Enjoy the pleasure of My company and sing every heartbeat. 

Celebrate My unfailing love and rest assured, however you feel. 

Follow Me and find My way home.
 

I am the gracious Savior who loves you unconditionally.

How much do I love you?  I died to pay the penalty for your sins. 

No one forced Me to carry the cross to Skull Hill—I did it willingly.

No one killed Me—I voluntarily surrendered My spirit to My Father.    

My feet were pierced to forgive you of walking where you shouldn’t.

My hands were nailed to a cross to cleanse you of your evil deeds. 

I did not ride in a royal chariot—I trudged up a rough road.

I had no purple robe to wear—executioners gambled for My clothes. 

I had no golden scepter—I was beaten on the head with a stick. 

I received no homage—soldiers dropped to their knees in mock worship. 

Through it all, I loved you—I always have and I always will.
 

I am the great Sovereign who lives to give you abundant and eternal life.

You are in My hands—no force can take you away from Me.

You’ve given Me your heart and I’ve given you Mine—we’re inseparable.

The Devil is a vicious wolf out to kill your joy—avoid his detours.

Satan is a roaring lion trying to destroy your influence—be careful.

The Adversary is a liar bent on stealing your enthusiasm—stay zealous. 

Life in its fullness—better than you can dream—is something only I give.

I am the Way to the Truth of Life.

Without Me you can’t go to heaven, know reality, or really live!

With Me you can celebrate undying life, experience invulnerable joy,

     grow in courage and hope, and experience ecstatic freedom!
 


 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 10:09 am   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email
Monday, April 29 2019

Then Hezekiah encouraged them with this address:

“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid of the king of Assyria or his mighty army.

There is a power far greater on our side! He has a great army, but they are just men.

We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!”

These words greatly encouraged the people.

2 Chronicles 32:6b-8 NLT
 

            Encircled by invisible armies, the Greatest Power is on your side. Stand proudly with spineless wimps turned into steel-backboned warriors. Feeling powerless, recall the truth not by force nor by strength, but by My Spirit. Feeling weak-kneed, trustingly don My armor.
 

            Sometimes you feel “where never is heard a discouraging word” is only a dreamy Utopia. Despair and pessimism are rampant. Bad news is all you ever hear. Futurists have little optimistic to predict.
 

            Tired of negativism? Bow before the plus sign of the cross. When it seems discouraging words are all you ever hear, turn to My Word. Take a walk through the New Testament and revel in transforming truths.
 

           I am your Travel Companion. Earth’s saddest day and gladdest day were just three days apart. My story captivates you and cheers you on. My Spirit brings peace in pandemonium. Christ’s return gives reason for living until paradise is restored. In the darkness, dawn approaches. You are a victor, not a victim. You enjoy freedom, not shackles. Your Heavenly Father cares for you, His child. Prayer opens the window to   infinite resources. Christ unlocks the secret to surviving every situation. Unimaginable glory is waiting just around the corner. I am the Eternal Optimist—you can be too.    My Son came to planet Earth to solve your biggest problem—guilt. I grant power for living, love for your relationships, and self-discipline for spiritual development. I am your Blessed Hope. Active sharing of faith’s perspective helps you to grow up in Christ. At the throne of prayer, find mercy for your sins and grace for your struggles. A humble attitude ensures help from the Almighty. Trust causes joy beyond words. Internalizing My Word purifies you from moral filth. In Jesus, there is certainty in all circumstances. Count on Unchanging Truth. Enjoy the pleasure of My company 24/7. I am your Source of eternal security. The United Kingdom is on the way.
 

            Take this walk often—My Encouraging Word will lift your spirit.
 

© Pastor Johnny R. Almond, Day 175 Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Posted by: Pastor Almond AT 03:18 pm   |  Permalink   |  0 Comments  |  Email

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    Hull's Memorial Baptist Church
    420 Enon Road | Fredericksburg, VA 22406 | PH: 540.371.4124