Sin breaks God’s heart.

In the wilderness, Israel’s rebellion “grieved” God (Psalm 78:40). In Ezekiel, Israel’s idolatry caused God to be broken (Ezekiel 6:9). He is the loving Father who taught his children to walk, who led them, carried them, fed them, yet they rebelled (Hosea 11:1-8).

Sin breaks God’s heart because he knows that sin promises so much and only takes everything. Sin deteriorates and demolishes, debases and destroys. Yet God does not give up. He is the Father who waits eagerly for his spiritually dead son to return (Luke 15:11-32).

What do we do when we have sinned? Do we dismiss it as something trivial? Do we delay repentance to another day? Do we become demoralized thinking there is no hope?

Dismissal, delaying, demoralization, those are not God’s wishes for us.

What can Israel and her most successful king teach us about dealing with sin?

Throughout scripture we find the practice of rending garments. Reuben and Jacob tore their clothes at the loss of Joseph (Genesis 37:29, 34). When Israel was defeated at Ai, Joshua tore his clothes (Joshua 7:6). When David heard of the death of Saul and Jonathan, the anointed king tore his clothes (2 Samuel 1:11). Josiah tore his clothes when the book of the Law was found and read (2 Kings 22:11). It was a display of grief over loss, a demonstration of humility, and a recognition of sin.

God responded to Josiah’s actions with mercy,

“Because your heart was penitent, and you humbled yourself before the LORD, when you hear how I spoke against this place and against its inhabitants, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and you have torn your clothes and wept before me, I also have heard you, declares the LORD” (2 Kings 22:19).

Because of Josiah’s reaction, God would not allow this good king to see the destruction he would bring upon Judah.

Yet this rending of garments could be merely a show, a superficial display lacking any depth. The prophet Joel spoke God’s words to a people soon to experience God’s punishment. But there was still hope.

“’Yet even now,’” declares the LORD, “’return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.’” Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster” (Joel 2:12, 13).

God did not want a mere outward show of repentance. The tearing of the clothes was to represent the torn heart, not replace it.

David understood this well. After giving in to temptation, walking deep into its clutches, and committing horrendous sins, David was confronted by Nathan. When convicted of his sin, we see why this man is described as a man after God’s own heart. His heart is broken by his sin. In agony he crawls to God confessing his sin and seeking forgiveness (Psalm 51:1-5).

“Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart” (Psalm 51:6).

“Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:9, 10).

David understood that burnt sacrifices without a changed heart were worthless. Torn clothes without a torn heart are futile.

“For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burn offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:16, 17).

When we sin, we break God’s heart. When we come back to God with a broken heart, both are healed.

by Lee Parish

It is common for many people to go into a church building on Sunday and listen to a sermon that sounds very similar to one they’ve heard many times before. The introductions may be different, but the main statements and lessons may seem very similar. This is a common occurrence with preaching the truth.

Jeremiah preached to Judah for 40 years and those people heard the same lesson over and over again. Judah was to face the destruction of their city and their freedom. They needed to repent and obey God.

It is difficult to tell people bad news like this when they don’t really want to hear it. Jeremiah didn’t really want to give people news like this. But God wanted them to know what was about to happen to them, so he told them.

God has a message for our age. This message is similar to the one Jeremiah relayed. God wants us to know the world will end and everyone who has ever lived on it will face judgment (Acts 17:31). Each person who has ever lived will receive an eternal destination of either heaven or punishment for sin (Matthew 25:31-46).

The people that heard Jeremiah didn’t believe what he said. Then, the Babylonians took them into 70 years of captivity. Many people will hear the words of Jesus in Matthew 25 and will not believe what he said either. But just as Judah learned Jeremiah’s words were true, one day many people will come to the same inescapable conclusion.

We live in a world that fills our senses and occupies our minds each day with the message that this world is all there is and there is no other. That message is not the truth. Reality is quite different. This world will end. It is not permanent.

You have a choice. You may choose God and obey the gospel, or you may choose to ignore the message of the gospel. What will it be?

John Henson

In view of Solomon’s warning in 12:13, 14 to “fear God and keep His commandments,” it seems prudent for us to consider what responsibilities he has given man throughout the book.

First, Solomon has instructed man to enjoy life. While many today have a “it’s all about me” and a “go for the gusto” philosophy, Solomon offers a legitimate reason to find joy in one’s life. There is much to enjoy: food, companionship, work – but all based upon a positive relationship with God. This theme occurs seven times in the book: 2:24-26; 3:12-13, 22; 5:18-20; 8:15; 9:7-9; 11:8-9. This joy cannot be hedonism, because it is given by God.

Second, Solomon has instructed man to be wise. There are some definite negatives to wisdom (1:18; 2:12; 4:13-16; 9:13-16; 10:1). However, there are numerous advantages. Wisdom itself is good (2:26), it improves the quality of life (7:11-12) and gives strength (7:19). It even can help one in a difficult situation (8:1). It is important to wise men that they help others to become wise (12: 9-12).

Third, Solomon has instructed men to worship God acceptably. Men throughout the centuries have foolishly approached God in a way that was unacceptable (Lev. 10:1, 2; Is. 1:10-17; Micah 6:6-8; Matt. 15:8-9; John 4:23, 24). Proper worship involves a recognition of God’s presence (5:1-2). It also includes careful consideration of one’s words and promises (5:4-6).

Fourth, Solomon has instructed men to remember God. He specifically noted that God should be remembered as judge (11:9; 12:13-14) and creator (12:1). These terms establish God’s power and authority, and demand more than a simple mental acknowledgement. They demand action and genuine devotion (12:13).

Fifth, Solomon has instructed men to have a good work ethic. In a world filled with laziness and gluttony, this message still applies today (9:10; 10:17-18; 11:4-6). It is God’s plan that man work, and work hard. Those who are looking for a “free ride” will not be able to fully appreciate God’s plan for his life and will ultimately destroy himself (4:5). However, it is possible for one to be a “workaholic” and fail to have the kind of balance God desires (4:6).

Sixth, Solomon has instructed men to fear God. This concept is central in all of the wisdom literature (Job 28:28; Ps 111:10; Prov 1:7; 9:10), and is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes (3:14; 5:7; 7:18; 8:12-13; 12:13). This admonition calls upon men to have a healthy view of God’s awesome power and authority, in contrast with man’s weakness and helplessness. It includes more than respect, but a terror of facing an angry God in the Day of Judgment (Heb. 10:31).

Seventh, Solomon has instructed men to recognize their limitations. Far too often men become arrogant and self-sufficient. Such entails the thinking of fools. Rather, Solomon has demonstrated that there are many things that men do not know (11:2, 5-6) or understand (11:5). Equally, there are many events that are beyond man’s ability to control (8:8).

Denny Petrillo

I heard about a farmer who was detained for questioning about an election scandal.   The attorney asked him, “Did you sell your vote?”

The farmer said, “No sir, not me.  I voted for that there fella ’cause I liked him.”

The attorney said, “Come, now, I have evidence that he gave you fifty dollars for a vote.”

The farmer said, “Well, now, it’s plain common sense that when a fella gives you fifty dollars you like him.”

I suppose that’s one way to define a friend.  In fact, Solomon said, “Many entreat the favor of the nobility, and every man is a friend to one who gives gifts.” (Proverbs 19:6).

But, a true friend involves a depth of relationship.  It’s someone you enjoy doing things with, someone you enjoy talking with, someone you wouldn’t hesitate to turn to in times of need.  Solomon lets us know how important friends are in the difficult times of life:

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.  For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.  But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.  Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone?  Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.  And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Eccl. 4:9-12).

Give thanks to God for the friends who are a blessing in your life.  And let those friends know how special they are to you.

Have a great day and a great weekend!

Alan Smith

Elijah is known as one of the greatest prophets. We’re introduced to him in 1 Kings 17 and God is preparing him to accomplish great things. As God leads him he begins to grow in faith while following His lead. Ahab wears the crown after his father Omri, but he is significantly more wicked. In fact, he’s more wicked than all before him. It’s fitting that during such a terrible time someone like Elijah makes his appearance.

There’s an interesting event that takes place while the prophet shelters by a brook that God had led him to. Ravens fly in with bread and meat to keep him sustained. The raven was an unclean animal, yet God is helping Elijah grow in several ways during this period. He’s leading, and Elijah follows in faith. He could not deny that God sent him the ravens, yet it went against his upbringing. Even so, he still ate.

One lesson we can pull from this account is that God can use the unclean for His purposes. God can use the evil people and nations to accomplish His will. An unfaithful Christian can share the gospel and a sinful man can make good and godly decisions, all the while remaining unclean. That’s a humbling lesson. We can act faithful, but we can remain filthy. We don’t want that! It’s my prayer that today we can make a fresh commitment to be faithful to God in all things. He can lead us through even the darkest times, if we have the faith to follow.

Dale Pollard

     With the recent warmer weather comes thoughts of springtime. Springtime is planting time. We all are planting seeds of some sort. Some of us may be planting seeds in the minds of our children. Others may be planting seeds in the minds of Bible students. Whatever kind of seeds we plant; there are some general principles that apply. Let us make some observations about the planting the Word of God.

First, the seed must be the right seed. So much seed is sown today wrongly labeled as “God’s seed.” The true seed, however, is the Word of God. (Luke 8:11) We have all of God’s word we need. (2 Pet. 1:3) We are not to alter, change, or modify it. (Gal. 1:6-10; Rev. 22:18, 19) This seed is described as incorruptible. (1 Pet. 1:23) When God’s pure seed is sown on good ground, only good results will come. Is your heart ready for the pure seed of God’s word? Faith is produced by the word of God. (Rom. 10:17) Faith does not come from emotions or feelings, but in obedience and in compliance with the Word and the Will of God.

Second, seed must be planted in the right soil. If the soil is not right even the best seed won’t germinate correctly. Spiritually, we must have our hearts willing and ready to receive the Word. Those Peter preached to “gladly received the word.” (Acts 2:41) The word is to be implanted within us. (James. 1:21)

Third, the seed must be watered and nurtured. Sometimes seed is planted but nothing more happens. Paul explains how the process is to work. Paul planted seed. He stated, “I planted, Apollos watered, and God gave the increase.” (1 Cor. 3:6) Some people today might be seed planters. Others are good at watering, but let us always let God provide the increase. Paul writes to fathers to bring up children in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Eph. 6:4, KJV) Throughout the coming years those seeds will need to be watered so that the plants will develop. Further nurturing will need to be done before harvest in the fall. In the Bible, the seed is the Word of God. (Luke 8:11)

The word of God must be planted in the heart and mind in order to save a person. Jesus told his apostles to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15, 16) The Bible tells us, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:47, NKJV)

By Bill Brandstatter

·       Ours is the society of the drive through.  We can remain in the quiet comforts of our vehicle and still pick up our laundry, carry out our banking, grab our lunch, and buy our over-priced Starbucks latte.

·       Ours is the environment of speed.  We wield on-demand cable TV, 5G wireless service, and high-performance internet access.

Hurry has become our most beloved deity.

Waiting has become the cardinal sin – an abomination of the worst order.

The devil is no longer a spirit entity who attacks our faith, but anything that causes us delay.

To be left in the waiting room is anathema.

These shifts in our cultural thinking and practice have impacted, not only our lives, but our views of the Almighty (Psa. 50:21).  He too must hustle and rush at the same frantic pace of humanity.  Since He transcends time, He ought to bring about prompt deliverance.

In essence, God ought to be instant.

Someone we can pick up at the drive through – and faster than a speeding bullet.

The problem is – God isn’t in a hurry (2 Pet. 3:8).  Ever.  You could say He cooks like Grandma used to – without the luxury of a modern microwave.

Jehovah often allows His children to simmer in the crock pot of patient endurance (Jas. 1:3-4).  His divine recipe for our spiritual health and maturity includes nothing more dramatic than letting us wait for His perfect will to unfold (2 Cor. 6:4; Col. 1:11).

You see, He knows that real faith is refined in the oven of days, months, years and even decades, and not in the quick setting of an Insta-Pot.

Think about it.

·       When Abram and Sarai were sure it was far too late to start a family, God allowed the couple to sauté yet another quarter-century before blessing them with Isaac.

·       When Isaac and Rebekah wanted children to grace their home, God let this husband and wife swelter the heat of perseverance for 20 years before answering their prayers.

·       When Joseph was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, God allowed twenty-two years to elapse before the siblings were finally brought together and reconciled.

·       When Moses was ready to lead the Hebrews out of Egyptian bondage, God left the future deliverer in the oven of Midian for another forty years.

These Bible folks grace the sacred pages of Hebrews chapter eleven because they waited on God (Psa. 27:14; 37:9, 34; Isa. 40:31) and learned to submit to His protracted plan.  In so doing, they not only increased their faith, but gave Jehovah glory.

Dear reader, are you ever impatient with God?

Are you tired of waiting?

It is quite possible that you are in the crock pot – right where the Almighty wants you to be.

“God loves you and I love you and that’s the way it’s gonna be!” 

–Mike Benson

When I was in junior high school, my dad was discouraged in his preaching and had quit for a few months, maybe a year. We lived in north Georgia at the time; we worshipped at one congregation on Sunday morning and another congregation on Wednesday evening.

    In the Bible class room in our Wednesday night Bible class, there was this poster on the wall that read: “I know I’m somebody ‘cause God don’t make no junk!” It was an important reminder to young teenagers that we are all important in the eyes of God. A similar aphorism that you have seen over the years says: “Be patient. God’s not finished with me yet.” 

    You and I cannot give up on ourselves when we fall into sin and temptation. When we do not perform as Christians as well as we know we could and should. Paul did not want the Philippian Christians to give up before they reached spiritual maturity. He challenged them to keep walking, keep growing, keep climbing until they reached their potential in Christ Jesus. There are four things in our text that are needed if we are to keep maturing in our Christianity.

    Let’s feed on God’s word together…

ENCOURAGEMENT – 3:15-16:

    Some translations translate “perfect” as “mature.” In verse 12, Paul used a verb form in the perfect tense, which denotes absolute spiritual maturity; you might even say “sinless perfection.” In this verse (ver. 15), it refers to spiritual maturity. It’s the type of “completeness” in maturity level that we see contrasted between an adult and a baby.

    The gospel got us to this point of maturity. The gospel is what brought us from unbeliever to believer, from being in sin to being in Christ. We cannot and should not allow other teachings or other principles or other people to change the way we approach the Christian life and Christian maturity.

EXAMPLES – 3:17:

    Literally, Paul says, “be fellow-imitators of me.” The Greek word gives us the English word mimic. As Paul mimicked Christ, he says Christians should mimic him.

    Notice also at the end of the verse, Paul writes Christians should observe those “who walk according to the pattern you have in us.” First, as to the “pattern…” The word refers to a piece of metal imprinting its image into something else, like coins. Paul followed Christ as closely as possible and, in doing so, he gave a pattern for other people to follow as well. In 1 Timothy 1:16, Paul wrote to Timothy: “Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.”

    It is not possible to overemphasize how important a godly example is to each one of us. I need to hear how you are living your Christian faith at work. That’s why fellowship is so important for us. Your example, your pattern of faithfulness inspires and encourages me. I need that. 

    I don’t remember a whole lot from my world history class in the 8th grade in Hiawassee, GA, but I certainly remember the impact Mr. Flanagan had on me.

ENEMIES AWAY – 3:18-19:

    Paul had already written in Philippians, in 3:2, about avoiding “dogs and evil workers.” These were wolves in sheep’s clothing. They were those who “perverted the gospel of Christ” (Gal. 1:7). They look like friends and sound like friends but in actuality, they are not teaching the gospel of Christ correctly, so they are enemies of the cross. Paul mourned as he talked about them.

    Let us observe their description:

    The goal: “Their end is destruction.”

    Their god: “their god is their appetite.” “Appetite” is literally “belly.” They pander to themselves, like those in 2 Timothy 4:3, whom Paul described as wanting to have their “ears tickled.” To that purpose, they sought out religious teachers who would tell them what they wanted to hear. 

    Their glory: “is in their shame.”

    Their perspective: “they set their mind on earthly things.”

    To become spiritually mature, we need to avoid godless enemies around us.

EXPECTATIONS – 3:20-21:

    The apostle Paul had set his past behind him and was determined to leave it in the past. He had a clear view of his future and he kept it in front of him. Stephen Covey wrote in The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People that effective people stay focused by keeping the end, the purpose, in mind.

    Paul’s “hope” was confident expectation! But it wasn’t only for the coming of Christ but also for the redemption of his body! Notice that Paul writes that when Jesus returns, He will “transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory” (ver. 21). My fleshly body is what causes me often to sin. But one day, this body with its passions is going to be changed and my spirit will no longer follow the desires of the flesh! What about that!?

    To enjoy spiritual maturity family, we need: great encouragement within us, godly examples around us, godless enemies away from us, and grand expectations before us. With this information in front of us, what are we to do?

    “Stand firm in the Lord, beloved!” (Phil. 4:1). This is how you will reach spiritual maturity. 

If you asked me to belay the fears of those worried about climate change quickly, I would do so by citing one Scripture. Granted, this would only work for a minority of people who 1) believe in God and 2) accept the Bible as His infallible revelation to humanity. Nevertheless, I would still begin with God’s words to Noah.

“As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.” (Genesis 8.22 NLT)

If you are a person of faith, that is all you need to hear. It does not matter what computer models claim. Behind the climate change hype, one notes that, typically, politicians are trying to seize more money and control through industry regulation and carbon taxes. I realize that it feels empowering to think the task of saving the planet is yours to undertake. I imagine it gives a sense of purpose. Yet, a person of faith sees that this ability to “save the planet” exceeds his or her grasp. God told the patriarch Job that He alone could bring the sword to His creation (Job 40.15ff).

Lastly, people of faith will likewise acknowledge that Holy Writ reveals a history of periods of extreme weather. In particular, one notes the seven years of feast and famine foreseen by the pharaoh and interpreted by Joseph via God’s Spirit (Genesis 41.29-31). That dearth of food, brought on by drought, was bad enough that it impacted even Joseph’s brothers living many miles away (Genesis 41.57-52.2). The foretold famine of Genesis 41 was not the only drought depicted in Scripture. The conditions leading to famine understood as drought, caused the patriarchs Abraham (then Abram) and Isaac and Naomi and her husband to take refuge where they could find food (Genesis 12.10; 26.1; Ruth 1.1).

Drought was not limited to the Old Testament. For example, in Acts 11.28, the prophet Agabus foresaw a “great dearth” (KJV) that would occur during the reign of Claudius Caesar. Though people have repeatedly undertaken the challenge of disproving the veracity of Luke’s scholarship, Luke has always proven true. There were, in total, four famines noted in secular history during the reign of Claudius Caesar. One such famine centered in Judea and served as the impetus for Paul’s missionary journeys (Acts 11.29-30). At this point, hopefully, the person of faith has had his or her fears about “climate change” assuaged. But what about those who do not accept the existence of God or the inspiration of Scripture?

Well, let’s play devil’s advocate. The late comedian, George Carlin, had a great point about “saving the planet” within one of his stand-up routines for those embracing evolutionary dogma. He mentioned that the planet has allegedly been here for billions of years by evolutionary timetables. In comparison, humans have supposedly only been here for a couple of hundred thousand years. Even then, humanity has only engaged in heavy industrialization for about 200 years. Yet, species of flora and fauna have come and gone whether “we” have done anything or not. Carlin says that nature takes care of itself.1 (By the way, Christians agree somewhat with this sentiment since we accept that Christ sustains His creation—Colossians 1.15-17; Hebrews 1.3.)

Meanwhile, the evidence touted by academics promoting today’s climate change hysteria points to such things as more significant amounts of greenhouse gases in earth’s remote past “before man.” (These scientists said that our current greenhouse gases, purported to be thanks to human activity, now matched what they observed in that distant past.)2

Other factors impacting weather and climate have nothing to do with man. For example, thanks to volcanic activity, our world entered a mini-ice age persisting for several centuries, despite the birth of industrialization, into the late nineteenth century.3 And there are likewise such factors as orbital changes (i.e., Milankovitch cycles) and sunspot activity influencing the weather. Regarding the impact of sunspots, scientists note the Maunder minimum that persisted for over twenty years between the latter seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. It added bitterness to the already cold mini-ice age.4

The weather is going to change. It always has and always will. Though the climate is different from weather, one notes climate is the weather record over a protracted period. And when was the last time your weatherman gave you an accurate weather forecast for a month into the future? Of course, they cannot do that, can they? No, they are constantly observing the computer models and giving you their best guess from their resources’ data. A forecast can drastically change within a day.

Computer programmers have a mantra as old as modern computing: “Garbage in, garbage out.” In other words, a program is only as good as the data entered into it. Therefore, if you have bias, the results of your programming will reflect that bias. Those crying “climate change” benefit from computer modeling that paints an apocalyptic future picture. Fear is a great motivator. Unscrupulous people will use unfounded fear to get you to go along with the message they are peddling.

Does this absolve us of our role as God’s caretakers (Genesis 1.26-28)? No, we ought to be good stewards. Therefore, we accept as a principle what Paul said of man’s stewardship of the Gospel: God must find us faithful (1 Corinthians 4.2). If God has given us stewardship of the planet, we ought not to pollute or abuse it. The Dust Bowl and Georgia’s Providence Canyon reveal what happens from poor farming practices that rob the earth of the protective soil: severe erosion. In like manner, belching industrial smokestacks and burning fires wreak havoc on the lungs of the asthmatic. Without rushing headlong into a hysteria that ultimately doubts God’s power or fails to accept His promise, we can grasp these truths.

I will close as I began, with those words God spoke in the presence of Noah to all of humanity.
“As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.” (Genesis 8.22 NLT)

Sources Consulted
1 Carlin, George. “‘Saving the Planet,’ by George Carlin.” Wheelersburg Local School District, Wheelersburg Local School District, www.wheelersburg.net/Downloads/GeorgeCarlin.pdf.
2 Freedman, Andrew. “The Last Time CO2 Was This High, Humans Didn’t Exist.” Climate Central, Climate Central, 3 May 2013, www.climatecentral.org/news/the-last-time-co2-was-this-high-humans-didnt-exist-15938.
3 Parry, Wynne. “Volcanoes May Have Sparked Little Ice Age.” LiveScience, Future US, Inc., 30 Jan. 2012, www.livescience.com/18205-ice-age-volcanoes-sea-ice.html.
4 “Maunder Minimum.” Edited by Erik Gregersen, Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 25 Feb. 2011, www.britannica.com/science/Maunder-minimum

Brent Pollard

A number of years ago I came across an article by the late Batsell Barrett Baxter that was directed toward practical suggestions for prayer.  The points that he noted in that article are worth considering especially when we all seem to be going in a hundred different directions at once.  The fifteen points that he noted are as follows and worth considering.

1. Pray immediately upon arising.  In what better way can we begin the new day than by thanking God for His protection and care during the night and by asking His guidance and help during the coming day?
2. Pray before every meal.  God has provided our every need in such a bountiful manner!
3. Pray at set times.  The ancient Jews, and others, found it helpful to reserve certain periods of the day for prayer.  We may find it helpful, too.
4. Pray at odd times—whenever you feel the desire.
5. Pray with your whole family.  There is something particularly wonderful about a prayer in which both children and parents have a part.
6. Pray immediately before retiring.  After the cares and toils of the day the child of God especially needs to talk with his Heavenly Father.
7. Pray when you feel discouraged.  Most of us need a little encouragement to pray when we feel discouraged or when we face some special problem.  It is a great comfort to know that God listens to our prayers in time of crisis.
8. Pray when you are happy.  It is easy to pray in time of crisis and equally easy to forget to pray when the affairs of life are going especially well.
9. Pray on your knees when possible.  The Scriptures contain no rigid commands concerning the physical posture to be taken while praying.  Nevertheless some postures, such as the bowed head, closed eyes, and bent knee are conducive to effective prayer.
10. Pray aloud.  Normally our prayers should be spoken audibly.  There is something about praying “out loud” that makes the prayer more real—we are really talking to our Heavenly Father.
11. Pray silently.  There are many situations in which an audible prayer would be hardly possible.  In a crowded restaurant or on a bus or train, for example.
12. Pray simply and naturally.  Prayers are not to be measured by their elegance or erudition.  They are to be simple, heart-felt petitions from the children of God to their Father.
13. Pray fervently.  James says, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much in its workings” (James 5: 16).
14. Pray until prayer becomes a habit.  It must not become “a mere habit” or “just a habit” but it ought to be something we do as regularly as we eat or sleep or breathe.
15. Pray at least ten minutes a day.  A highly regarded preacher of our time often says “I can guarantee that anyone who prays as much as ten minutes each day will be saved.”  On what basis can such a rash-sounding statement be made?  The man who spends ten minutes a day in prayer will be the kind of a Christian who will do all the other things the Lord requires.

The points that are made should be considered by each of us this very hour as we consider our everyday Christian walk.  May we be a people of prayer.

Dave Chamberlin

“So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of the month Elul, in fifty-two days.” (Nehemiah 6:15 NASB2020)

At first glance perhaps this doesn’t have much impact on us. But when we consider what they were doing, we realize what a great achievement this statement represents. In under two months the Jews who had returned from exile to Jerusalem had rebuilt the wall that surrounded the city.

This was not a one-stone wide wall. For me, one of the impressive sights in the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem today is seeing the foundation of the wall that Hezekiah had built for Jerusalem’s defense. It is seven meters (23 feet) thick and at places preserved to a height of 3.3 meters (almost 11 feet). It is thought that its real height was around 8 meters (26 feet). It may be that this stretch of wall is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:8-9. That is not a wall that could be built in a day or very quickly! It wasn’t just this one section but a rebuilding of the wall that surrounded the entire city of Jerusalem.

This was accomplished through what seems to have been almost constant opposition and threats from those who lived in the area. They tried any means they could to get Nehemiah and the Jews to stop work on the wall – and all without success. Nehemiah was not to be dissuaded from the task before him.

How did a group of people who had been exiles manage to accomplish such a Herculean feat in such a short time? The answer to this question is simple and applicable to us today. This is what was recorded as they were working on the wall.

“So we rebuilt the wall, and the entire wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.” (Nehemiah 4:6)

Much can be accomplished when a group of people decide to work together to get it done. I’ve witnessed this over the past week as we moved out of our house. Our house sold much more rapidly than we anticipated (we did not even advertise). The problem we had was that the buyer needed to get out of his house and our new house is not completed. From the offer to purchase to moving out was around four weeks. How were we going to accomplish all that needed to be sorted through, packed, stored, and the house cleaned in such a short time? We had a group of people helping us who had a mind to work. After cleaning years of accumulation, packers came in and packed everything is just over a day. They then moved our belongings to a storage facility in a day. Then a group of Christian friends came to help us and we cleaned the house from top to bottom in a day.

Within a congregation this is what needs to be happening as well. If people have a mind to work much can be accomplished.

From my observation there are at least three types of people in a congregation.

• There are those who complain that nothing is being done – and they are also doing nothing (it is always someone else’s responsibility!).
• There are those who do something but think everyone should be doing exactly what they are doing.
• Then there are those who are willing to use the abilities with which God has blessed them to complement the abilities of others.

It is this latter group that gets the work done. Like those in Nehemiah’s day, all worked but everyone did what they could do best. Like those helping us move, all didn’t do the same thing but by all working together the job was done.

As Solomon looked back over his life when he was old, he reached this conclusion: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). If we would only learn this simple message and develop a mind to work, to do what we can in the Lord’s service, more could be accomplished.

Jon Galloway

It’s been said that there are more stars in the known universe than all of the sand on earth combined. That being said, in just one grain of sand there are more atoms than all of the stars. That’s pretty amazing. Our planet is but a speck in the grandeur of space. Countless stars, planets, galaxies, light years and somehow God is well aware of the happenings of people. Have you stood on the mountain tops? Have you observed the power of the oceans as the waves crash on the shore? Has your heart almost stopped after the vibrating sensation of a thunder clap resonates in your chest? The might of the Creator is everywhere in the world around us and at times it just demands to be noticed.

A section of scripture that is mysterious and fascinating is found in 1 Kings 19:11-13. The Lord of hosts is about to show Himself to a depressed and exhausted Elijah, but in a way that he would never forget. “The Lord said, ‘go out on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out to stand at the mouth of the cave. Then the voice said, ‘what are you doing here Elijah?’” In the solitude of Horeb, Elijah seeks to avoid the troubles of his world.

The acoustics of the mountainous area along with the time spent in silence must have made the shattering rocks, raging fire, splitting hills, and rumbling earth all but deafening and definitely a terrifying display of divine power. Then in sharp contrast, a still whisper comes. This gentleness, no doubt, is the reason Elijah decides to cautiously emerge from his hiding place. God is teaching His worn-out servant a lesson that holds true for us today. The fact is, there is no more God, His wisdom, power, and presence in an earthquake than there is in the sweet breath of a blooming flower. The quiet ticking of a wrist watch reveals just as much intelligence and purpose as does the striking of a clock tower’s bell.

One may walk out into an open field at night and stare up into the vast sky, lit up with numerous twinkling stars and declare, “I’ve found God!” But God is no more in the sky than He is in the blades of grass flattened beneath your feet. The question came to Elijah from that still voice, “What are you doing here?” To the prophet, his problems were too great and too large and his solution was to run and hide. God, in a magnificent way, is trying to remind Elijah of his place.

Our place in life is not to take matters into our own hands or solve life’s many difficulties on our own. The answer is not to run away, but to walk humbly with our awesome God. He is strong enough to lift our burdens, wise enough to counsel us, patient enough to allow us to learn, and loving enough to constantly forgive.

Dale Pollard

Did you know, ladies, that by the time a mother of three rears her children to age eighteen that she will have put in more than 18,000 hours of child-generated work? That’s work you wouldn’t have to do if you had no children.

The mother who invests her time and talents in the rearing of her own children is too often unappreciated by the man and children she tries so desperately to serve. How could a little four-year-old girl or boy understand the importance of what Mommy is trying to do? We can only hope that each passing year and the maturity it brings will help children to understand. And we can only pray that a man who finds himself so fortunate will express his love and appreciation for such a wife,

We wish that every mother could understand how precious the days they invest in child-rearing really are. No job anywhere could be any tougher; no job anywhere could be more important!

Prov 31:27-28 – She looketh well to the ways of her household, And eateth not the bread of idleness. 28 Her children rise up, and call her blessed; Her husband (also), and he praiseth her, (saying):

– by Mark White

It was 2008, just 20 days shy of his 90^th birthday, when Fred Baur died. On the way to the funeral home, his kids decided to stop at a nearby Walgreens to pick up some salty snacks. They debated for a bit, should it be sour cream and onion, cheddar cheese maybe? Larry and his siblings finally decided on Original.

You see, Fred adored his kids, but his passion was snacks. His accomplishments included a variety of frying oils and freeze-dried ice cream.

Fred was an American organic Chemist that had received both his masters and PhD at The Ohio State University, and it was 1966 when P&G came calling. Evidently, in the 1960s, there was a problem with the packaging and shipping of potato chips. By the time the consumer would pick up potato chips at a store, well, they were merely in pieces. This is where P&G thought Fred could help solve this problem.

After two years of experimentation, Fred developed a chip of dried potato flakes, added a bunch of unpronounceable ingredients, and cut them into thin hyperbolic paraboloids. With this shape, Fred could neatly stack his chips into his vacuum sealed tube.

By this time, you know that I am referring to Fred’s invention of Pringles, but the story doesn’t end there. Fred still wasn’t done with his invention.

There were problems:

First and foremost, they tasted like sawdust, so Fred spent another 2 years to improve the taste. Then, another issue. Frito-Lay sent lawyers because they said Fred’s chips weren’t potato chips at all because they were just 42% potato.

After some time and haggling, they decided to call them potato crisps.

Fred persevered.

He gave birth to an iconic brand that many of us still enjoy today. Through years of experimentation, development, and disappointments, lawyers-at one point P&G wanted to trash the idea.

But Fred persevered.

He was able to see his brand break 100 million in sales. He was able to see it break 500 million in sales. However, he wasn’t there in 2011 when P&G sold Pringles for almost 2.5 Billion Dollars.

That brings us back to 2008 when Fred’s children showed up to the funeral home with the Original flavored can of pringles. Fred’s wish was to have his ashes be placed in a Pringles can when he passed.

Fred got his wish.

As great as this story is, we wouldn’t have this story if it wasn’t for Fred’s perseverance. And as great as Fred’s perseverance was, we have so many examples of greater perseverance in the Bible.

Consider Joshua, Job, Jeremiah, Nehemiah and our greatest example of perseverance, Jesus. These are just a few of the many examples the Bible gives us.

Two points I want to quickly make about Perseverance, and the lesson is yours.

Number 1. WE HAVE A NEED FOR PERSEVERANCE.

It’s not a matter of if, but when…Christians Will Face Tribulations in Life. Jesus says in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Christ never promised us that this life would be a bed of roses. The Gospel never said we’d go to Heaven on “flowery beds of ease.” Rather, we are promised that we shall have hardships and tribulations in this life, especially if we are faithful Children of God.

Only those who persevere receive the reward. Revelation 2:10-11 tells us, “ Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

Number 2. PERSEVERANCE IS DEVELOPED IN TRIBULATION.

Romans 8: 18-28 can be summarized as this: Viewed in faith, tribulation is a friend rather than an enemy. I don’t know a lot of adversity that is necessarily fun, but we can learn from it, and we can grow from it.

In Deuteronomy 8, the Israelites failed to see the benefits of their trials.

In Numbers, we see there was an Exodus of over one Million Israelites.

We later see that only two Persevered and reached the promised land.

In 1 Corinthians and Hebrews, Paul admonishes us not to imitate the Israelites.

Rather than complain, rejoice in God’s work in your life.

Difficulties and trials would not normally be considered an occasion for joy but think about James and Paul and how they exhort us to look beyond the immediate pain and discomforts of trials to the lasting effect they have on the character of the Christian.

It is the development of our character, that should cause us to rejoice in adversity. Always remember who wins in the end.

We all have mountains to climb and sometimes holes to dig ourselves out of. Perhaps you want to begin to persevere and put on the armor of God through Baptism. There is no better time than now. Perhaps you’ve been baptized, and you’re currently trying so hard to climb the mountain that you’re on and you’ve had setbacks. We would love to help you reach the peak.

There is an old adage, “If you live in a graveyard too long, you will stop crying when someone dies.” The idea behind this saying is less about someone literally living in a graveyard and more about how we can become desensitized. This is why funeral directors don’t typically become emotional during memorial services. Death becomes common. This is why so many marriages end in divorce. The newness has worn off and the couple doesn’t have the mushy feelings they first did. This is why old toys sit in children’s closets for months without attention. The newness is gone.

Tragically, this can happen on a sin level as well. If we aren’t careful, we can become so used to sin that we become desensitized.

This is exactly what happened to the people in Jeremiah’s time. Listen to God’s frightening description of these people, “Were they ashamed because of the abomination they have done? They were not even ashamed at all; they did not even know how to blush. Therefore they shall fall among those who fall; at the time that I punish them, they shall be cast down,’ says the Lord” (6:15; 8:12).

We can bring ourselves to a point where we are no longer embarrassed (i.e. blushing) by sinful and detestable things. We can become so desensitized that we are no longer bothered by wickedness. We can develop heart calluses, just as Pharaoh did (Exodus 7:13, 22, 8:15, 19, 32, etc). The more we rub up against the world, the more heart calluses we will develop (Romans 12:1-2). The more time we spend in the weeds, the less we will notice the thorns (Proverbs 22:5).

The good thing about calluses is they fade with time, but only if the activity that was causing them is stopped. Let’s distance ourselves from spiritual callous causers and keep our minds, hearts, and bodies focused on what is right before God (Philippians 4:8).

Brett Petrillo

What would it be like to be taken as a captive to a different country? You are forced to leave behind quite a good life – you are well-educated and your family is part of the nobility of your country. Because of your background you are selected to enter the service of the conquering king. It will take three years of training to learn the language, court etiquette and anything else you need to know to enter the service of the foreign government. But you are a captive. You can’t return home. You must do what your captors tell you.

Then comes the challenge: the king has given those being trained food from what he himself eats. But to eat this food would defile you in some way. Yet you have been told to eat it. What do you do? Do you remain true to what you believe? Or do you go ahead and eat, after all (you reason) you really don’t have much of a choice.

This is the position that Daniel and his three friends – Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah – found themselves (see Daniel 1). The easier course of action would be to just go along with what they were told. The more difficult path, especially since they were captives, was to refuse the food. They made up their minds that they would take a stand.

As you read through Daniel chapter 1 we can see that Daniel was not obstinate and unreasonable. Rather than just refusing to eat the king’s food he approached the overseer of the court officials, the one in charge, to explain his predicament and ask permission not to defile himself.

The official was fearful that they would end up being malnourished – after all, this was the king’s food – so Daniel suggested a short trial period. For ten days he and his three friends would eat vegetables and drink water. After the ten days they could be compared with the other young men and then an informed decision could be made. This was agreeable to the warden.

“At the end of the 10 days their appearance was better and their bodies were healthier than all the young men who had been eating the royal delicacies. So the warden removed the delicacies and the wine from their diet and gave them a diet of vegetables instead. Now as for these four young men, God endowed them with knowledge and skill in all sorts of literature and wisdom—and Daniel had insight into all kinds of visions and dreams.” (Daniel 1:15-17 NET)

Today we can easily understand why they would have been healthier eating a vegetable diet as opposed to eating a rich diet. They were so much healthier that they influenced the diet of all those being trained – they were all given a vegetable diet.

Whatever the problem was with the king’s food, they had not been promised that all would work out as it did. Yet they still were determined not to defile themselves. It was a matter of remaining faithful to God, even though they were far from home and no one would really know what they were doing. The result was that God blessed them.

What about us? Are there situations when we are on our own and have to make a choice whether remain faithful to God or give in and do something we know isn’t right? What do we do? Do we reason that it is easier just to go along with everyone else and not ‘rock the boat’? Or do we choose to remain faithful to God no matter what the consequences are?

There was an incident in Scotland many years ago when a Christian young man stood up for what he believed in. The result for him was that he was tarred and feathered and walked through the town. His mother went behind him, encouraging him to “Dare to be a Daniel”.

May we ‘dare to be a Daniel’ when we are faced with difficult choices in our lives.

by Jon Galloway

In Mark 9, when Jesus returns from his mountaintop transfiguration, a somewhat peculiar scene unfolds before him. At the end of the trail a group of people was crowded around his disciples, with no small amount of commotion. A man had brought his young demon-possessed son to be healed. Despite their valiant efforts, the disciples simply could not command this demon’s exit. And so, Jesus gets involved.

In verse twenty-two the father desperately cries, “If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus’ response is one that tends to contradict many of our mental pictures of him. “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.”Now, the text does not specifically say it, but it’s logical to see a sense of indignance and annoyance in Jesus’ words. It seems unusual because its an emotion that is often left out of our depictions of Jesus, as though his usually unflappable demeanor meant that he could never be aggravated. Yet, you don’t get mistaken for Elijah or John the Baptist without possessing a fiery disposition at times (see Matt. 16:14). It is completely in line with Jesus’ character to express a justified annoyance. The big question is, “What is he upset about?”

Consider his response again. “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.”Despite all the evidence visible in Jesus’ ministry, this man had the audacity to question both Jesus’ power and willingness to help. This is why he came! This is what he does! “Why are ALL of you lacking faith?” The father lacked it, the disciples lacked it, and (presumably) the surrounding crowd lacked it. Is it any wonder the Son of God would become agitated at this obvious failure to trust his power and goodness?

The father’s next words still stand as a refreshing response to such a rebuke. “I believe; help my unbelief!”  There is no further scolding, but an immediate answer by healing the boy.

Sometimes, I wonder if God does not feel the same frustration with me. I see the evidence. I have his word. And yet, somehow, I have the audacity to question if God is able and willing to intervene. I seek out the experts without consulting him in prayer. I run myself ragged trying to learn more and be stronger, instead of letting his strength carry me. I allow my mind to become overwhelmed with anxiety over what to do next, and yet fail to seek his guidance. I maintain a white-knuckled grip on the situation instead of laying it down at Jesus’ feet. Maybe, I’m alone in this. But I doubt it.

Oh Lord, I do believe. Help my unbelief!

Cory Waddell

Solomon cautioned, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling” (Proverbs 16.18 NASB1995). I am sure we can think of many examples of this truth we have witnessed in our own lives. However, one that comes to my geeky mind is the downfall of Atari.

Atari was the video gaming console every child had to have from the late 1970s into the early 1980s. But then came along a glitchy game that nearly killed the video gaming console industry: “E.T. The Extraterrestrial.” Of course, we know of the movie by the same name. The film was a commercial success. “E.T.’s” director, Stephen Spielberg, wanted to capitalize on his movie’s success with a video game based on the titular character.

In addition, Spielberg wanted Atari to have the game ready for the Christmas season. Unfortunately, that timeframe only gave the developer requested by Spielberg about five months to complete the game. Spielberg’s request was not without precedent. The developer had previously worked on another game adapted from a Spielberg movie (Raiders of the Lost Ark). Nevertheless, the developer flying high atop Atari’s past success assured Spielberg that he could develop the game quickly.

The game did sell well, at first. But then the reviews came back from players. The game was confusing, tedious, and E.T. would routinely get stuck in a hole from which he could not extricate himself. Therefore, a quarter-million users returned the game to Atari, and Atari was stuck with over two million units that they could not move. This failure created a meltdown resulting in the breakup of Atari. Atari had lost over 500 million dollars. If not for the arrival of Nintendo’s video game console in the mid-1980s, introducing us to the lovable Italian plumber, Mario, one wonders if the gaming industry would be a billion-dollar industry today.

It may be that we can boast of many successes in life. Paul certainly could. Paul called himself a “Hebrew of Hebrews” (Philippians 3.4-6). Yet, Paul said he counted all his gains as loss, even rubbish, for the sake of Christ (Philippians 3.7-8). If you keep reading Philippians 3, you’ll note that Paul admits that he had not arrived at his destination but pressed onward so he could attain his eternal prize (Philippians 3.12-14). Paul then exhorts us to have a similar mindset (Philippians 3.15-16).

Yes, pride causes us to become blind to things like temptation. We become so full of ourselves that we have no room for the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. The Hebrews’ writer warns us about how easy it is to drift away (Hebrews 2.1-3). Therefore, we must be vigilant to watch our location relative to the Gospel. Paul writes: “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall” (1 Corinthians 10.12 NASB1995).

As we turn our attention back to Atari, we note that it was, at least, partly resurrected. It reported earnings of about 21 million in the fiscal year 2018. But what is 21 million compared to the half a billion dollars they lost in the early 1980s? Moreover, in the early twenty-teens, Atari filed for bankruptcy. Thus, Atari demonstrates that you cannot always get back on your feet after you stumble.

Fortunately, as Christians, we are showered by the riches of God’s grace (cf. Ephesians 1.7-8). Thus, if we will but “walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1.7 NASB1995). So, watch your feet and remember that pride goes before destruction.

Brent Pollard

A stranger entered the church in the middle of the sermon and seated himself in the back pew. After a while he began to fidget. Leaning over to an older white-haired man at his side, evidently an older member of the congregation, the visitor whispered, “How long has he been preaching?” The old man answered, “Thirty or forty years I think.” The stranger decided, “I’ll stay then. He must be nearly done.” As of this past July 2024, I have been preaching 50 years. If my math and memory are correct, I have written / taught / preached somewhere around 9,000 articles / classes and sermons in worship services and other means and places. When will I be “done”? If the Lord wills, I’ll be slowing the pace soon, but I hope and pray to not be done sharing God’s love and “preaching Christ crucified” publicly and privately until God is done with me and my life here is over. Like Jeremiah, I still feel a fire in my bones (Jeremiah 20:9). Preaching Christ’s gospel has been the greatest challenge, joy and privilege of my life. A special word of thanks to the elders and members, past and present, of the Smithville (Tennessee) church of Christ for allowing me the privilege of being their pulpit minister these past 29 years! Following is but a few of the things I have learned in 50 years of preaching:

* I have learned there is a God, and that no preacher, no not one and starting with me, is Him!

* I have learned preachers plant and water, but it is God who must give the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).

* The preacher’s life is a life of tears (Acts 20:19) — at times tears of triumph and joy and others tears of tests and trials.

* The preacher’s wife is his most important asset except for the Lord!  Donna is my greatest friend, fan, critic and helper.

* There are a few “expert” armchair quarterbacks in the pews who should do the preaching since (they think) they know more about preaching and how it ought to be done than the man in the pulpit, though they never preached a single sermon.

* The best people on earth are in the church of our Lord, but the best people in the church are sinners in need of God’s grace

* Just about any problem (in individual lives or the congregation) can be “fixed” if we all have the mind of Christ.

* Not even slight problems (in individual lives or the congregation) can be “fixed” if we don’t submit to Jesus and His word.

* The great majority of people who come to church are there to worship God, but not everybody.

* Preaching has power to change people’s lives when people allow it to.

* Preaching is powerless to change anybody’s life until they allow it to.

* I am one of the best preachers some people have ever heard … and one of if not the worst preacher others ever heard!

* I have learned I can please God but not all people, but it’s okay — Jesus Himself didn’t please everybody (John 15:25).

* People can take “hard preaching” if it comes from God’s Word through a preacher with a “soft” heart.

* Preachers, elders and members sometimes fail, but God never does.

* I have learned that the church (the old ship of Zion) sometimes springs a leak and lets in some of the world’s water!

* I have learned that the devil and all the demons in hell and on earth cannot sink the old ship of Zion!

* Problems and offenses and “hatchets” between some members of Christ’s church won’t be buried until those members are.

* Some people in the church seem unwilling to tolerate any kind of sin.

* Some people in the church seen willing to tolerate any kind of sin.

* I have learned that nothing is too hard for God (Genesis 18:14 <> Jeremiah 32:17).

* I have learned that God works through His people to do great things (Ephesians 3:20-21 <> Acts 14:27).

* I have learned that God is good all the time . . . all the time God is good!

* I have learned in fifty years of preaching that while times and things and people change, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

I have been and continue to be blessed to be a preacher — by God and by His people!  To God be all the thanks and glory.

“And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel …” — Romans 15:20

by: Dan Gulley, Smithville, TN

Many Christians struggle with the concept of divine providence. We understand that the period of miracles served a specific purpose which has now passed. Through His Word, God continues to testify and confirm His historic saving acts.

While God no longer utilizes supernatural acts performed by human hands, we believe He still works in our world. Verses like Gen. 50:20 and Rom. 8:28 plainly teach us to expect God’s providential care.

As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people. (BSB)

And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. (BSB)

When my grandmother was a child (she was the third of eleven surviving children), her family did not own an automobile. With no other means of transportation, my great-grandmother Marie rode a horse to worship services. Since she couldn’t haul them, she left the children, including my grandmother, with my great-grandfather Ricey, who refused to attend.

In early 1942, the family went West because Great-Grandma Marie had tuberculosis. They initially settled in Garden City, Kansas, where Ricey worked the wheat harvest. Afterward, they went to Colorado to work the peach harvest. Finally, they migrated to Wyoming. Ricey couldn’t find suitable work in Wyoming. Marie’s lungs had cleared, so they returned to Kentucky around the first of October.

The travels west meant the family now had a truck. When they returned to Kentucky, Ricey drove them all to worship. While Marie and the children went inside, Ricey visited with other husbands under the trees. In hindsight, one of the reasons my grandmother was able to attend church as a child was that her mother suffered from tuberculosis. Behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face, indeed!

Clay Leonard