"The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself." ~ Benjamin Franklin

Happy Thursday, March 10, 2025, y'all! Thanks to each one for tuning in to today's episode. When I would be out of sorts as a kid growing up my grandfather used to tell me, "Son, you've got the same clothes to get glad in." We've all heard the adage that we should not get bitter but get better. Living life is a tough proposition. All the quotes and cliches will not change our outlook, but, God can. The late Dr. Billy Graham, (1918-2018), said this, "Even if we may not always understand why God allows certain things to happen to us, we can know He is able to bring good out of evil, and triumph out of suffering." The man known as the Prince of Preachers, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, (1834-1892), gave this insight,"It is not the strength of your faith that saves you, but the strength of Him upon whom you rely! Christ is able to save you if you come to Him-be your faith weak or be it strong." It is easy for us to be overwhelmed by our circumstances, however, we, as believers, have God on our side. I wrote today's episode when I remembered the lyrics to a song I heard by Jimmy Dean, (1928-2010), the country singer and sausage king.

 

The Farmer and the Lord
Song by Jimmy Dean ‧ 1952

While resting the other evening by the side of the road
I saw an old farmer in the field that he just hoed
His face was all brown and wrinkled by the sun and the wind
And he was talking to the Lord just like he'd be talking to a friend

Well he said with his voice calm and quiet
Them corn tassels need stackin I got no strength to tie it
Had no rain in so long that the fields are mighty dusty
And it's been so unbearable hot that the kids were even gettin' fussy

Now that grass down in the pasture it should be knee high
If we could just have a little shower Lord it might keep the calf from going dry
Oh but listen to me talking you'd think I wasn't grateful
Why if you didn't know me so well Lord you'd think I was down right hateful

You'd think I forgot about that new calf that you sent
And the money in the mail that took care of the rent
Mama's cough's better and Johnny's home from the navy
And that good Sunday dinner of hot chicken and dumplings and gravy

And that new preacher you sent us Lord he's sure a fine young man
Why he's just convertin' them sinners to beat the band
Well I guess I'll mosey on home now Lord I won't take no more of your time
I guess there's plenty folks here about waitin' to ring your line

Evening to you Lord and watch us over tonight
Don't you worry about us now Lord cause everything is gonna be all right

Songwriter: Jim Wilson

That's a good reminder for us all. Amen? Yes, me too. Amen! I did check the lyrics and while I may not understand all of the examples given I do get the gist of it. The bottom line is the one I find most difficult but I know it is true, "....in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (Inspired words from the Apostle Paul, 1st Thessalonians 5:18) You can find Jimmy Dean's recitation of The Farmer and the Lord on YouTube. I recommend it. It's a powerful reminder. Or, it was to me, and, as you already know, I am typically unanimous in my opinions. That would be me. Take care out there. You hear? May God add His blessings. Amen.