Happy 57th Birthday to our Jimmy!

Good morning and welcome. Nothing reminds us of our sojourn and the time we've spent here on the planet like the birthdays of our boys. Today, Wednesday, April 30, 2025 is one of those reminders as we pause to recognize the 57th birthday of our middle son, Jimmy. Our Jimmy has not had an easy time of it during his 57 years, and, he continues to fight mental health battles that most people, thankfully, will never know anything about. We always seek God's provision for him and pray for His guidance and direction in his life. Happy Birthday son, and may God add His blessings. Amen.

 

Marilyn, left, and Dorothy, twins born 18 months apart.

The wife is with her sister, Dorothy, today as they deal with a followup to a suspect mammogram. They, along with Dorothy's husband Jimbo, are at the Woodlands location of the M.D. Anderson Cancer center. Heaven is hearing from family, friends, and folks far and wide as they lift up this matter to our heavenly Father. These girls, well, as we used to say back home, they are something else. Close does not describe these two. Joined at the hip. That may explain it but it may even be more than that. Their mom and dad, Bro. Wilson Lee and Mary Rawles instilled a sense of family into their brood. He, an old time preacher man, and she, a walking talking woman of God, well, their kids took seriously what it meant to stick together as a family. While mom and dad Rawles along with Bro. Milton have gone on to their heavenly home, Cleon, 89, Dorothy 79, and Marilyn 78, continue the family legacy. The 'girls' as they have always been called have been helping to care for their brother on a regular basis. Now Dorothy and her husband Jimbo are dealing with this latest challenge. That's what life is made up of, challenges. Dorothy knows she has God with her along with Jimbo and her sis. Dorothy's sons, Scotty and Michael and they kids are also on their knees today praying for God's provision and peace. Many who read my blog are also praying. You are welcome to join in the prayer circle. I have been seeking God and I know He already knows all about it but He has invited us to come into His presence in our time of need. I like the way the Berean Study Bible translates Hebrews 4:16 "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Dorothy will be undergoing tests and subsequent procedures as needed to deal with this issue. We will know more later, but, she said as she left this morning that God had given her a peace about it all. And, I say Amen to that!

 

Another day and another time of celebrating and in seeking God's provision. Always. I leave us all with this verse to consider: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." (Philippians 4:8-9) Have a great day and may God add His blessings. Amen.

"Slang is a language that rolls up its sleeves, spits on its hands and goes to work." ~ Carl Sandburg, (1887-1967), American poet, jouralist, editor and winner of three Pulitzer Prizes

Okay. I made it up the stairs and I am now sitting in my home office clicking and clacking on the computer keyboard. Today, well, it's Tuesday, April 29, 2025, and I bid you a welcome to my tiny little speck of a space here on the world wide web, or, as I like to call it, the blogosphere. If they were to do away with slang and colloquialisms I would have to quit any writing I might do, immediately. Yep. That's right, neighbor. If I couldn't give you a rain check, if I couldn't be head over hills in love with my wife, if I couldn't tell you the facts that were within the ballpark, well, it would be hard to communicate. Add to that my own recollections of what I heard growing up and you get a steady diet of word salads. Think about it. What if I couldn't throw in a 'bless your heart' now and then or maybe letting you know when someone is too big for their britches, or, she is madder than a wet hen. See what I mean? I've seen a few who were drunker than Cooter Brown. No. I have never met Cooter, but, I do know when that dog won't hunt. Not to mention 'well I'll be' or 'did you ever?' or 'heavens to Betsy' or 'what in the Sam hill?'. I can testify that I've been as full as a tick before and I've been upset as all get out along with an exclamation of how 'if it had been a snake it would have bitten you' a few times. Where in the world would I be without y'all thrown out here and there? Okay. I think you get my drift and I will continue using my way of talking if that's okay with you. It is? Well, that makes me happy enough to slap my pappy. (I never would have slapped my grandfather but one time. I'll let you guess what may have happened if I ever did.)

 

I am just messing around today but I happen to enjoy the old slang sayings. However, I will confess here and now the truth about the way the youngsters communicate today. They use, heaven only knows how many, mostly abbreviations and cryptic slogans which, on the rare occasion when I feel I need to know, I have to Google the letters to see what they mean. These kids must get a kick out of seeing us respond the way they do when they try to read the stuff I mentioned in the first paragraph. I did look through those in the visual above and I don't think there are any off color but I can quickly tell I am definitely out of the loop when it comes to knowing much about them. Hey, you older guys, we still have one thing we can do to camouflage our writings. Right? Cursive. Aha! The common denominator that crosses every age group, skin color, language, and, ethnic background is the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His provision of salvation to any and all who repent of their sins and call on Him. That means we can have fellowship with even the youngsters who know Christ as Savior. What a blessing! Amen? Yes, Amen!

“Most Christians salute the sovereignty of God but believe in the sovereignty of man.” ― R. C. Sproul (1939-2017) Renowned theologian, Christian apologist, and ordained pastor

Well, hello there. Hope all are well on this Monday, April 28, 2025. It's a good day to thank God for His mercy, grace, and His provision in allowing us to still breathe air on the planet. The song says it accurately, "my life is in His hands". I believe that. I remember the fellow who came up to the late Dr. Adrian Rogers and told him he believed so fervently in the sovereign control of God over his life, so much so, he could step out in front of a train and if it wasn't his time to go then he would not be killed. Dr. Rogers calmly told the man if he steps out in front of an oncoming train, he will find out that it is his time to go. This means we understand God's always working to accomplish His will, but, in my opinion we don't do stupid stuff because of it. Got it? Good. No. I will not be taking up any rattlesnakes anytime soon to show everyone the evidence of my faith and no, I will also not be drinking strychnine to show my belief in God's protection. At the same time, I recall the Apostle Paul picking up some sticks for firewood and in so doing he was bitten by a highly venomous snake. The people saw what happened and they sat down and waited for Paul to die. God had other plans for Paul, therefore, the serpent's venom did not harm him. (Read about it in the Book of Acts, Chapter 28) That is what I see as God's supernatural intervention. God can do whatever He determines to do and He's not impressed with the crazy shenanigans people might come up with. I am not throwing off on folks who read from Mark's Gospel, Chapter 20, and somehow get caught up in the snakes and the poison, but, my heart's desire is for us all to serve God based on a balanced view of His Holy Word. 

Me too! Those typically country folks who handle serpents are easy pickings, but, to be sure, most everyone have areas where there is a failure to adhere to the clear teachings found in God's Word. Mark Lowry, Gospel singer and comedian, says you will likely never hear a sermon on gluttony from a Baptist pulpit. We all laugh but it's because we know it's true. I enjoy watching Church services on YouTube, from pretty much all over the globe. I enjoy watching the Koreans honor our Lord and Savior as well as the Australians, Spanish speaking congregations, and, many, many English and American Churches too. One service I enjoy is a Baptist Church in Kentucky which is highly charismatic in their practice. They jump for joy, shout, and even some of them take a lap around the sanctuary now and then. They typically all dress pretty much alike, have hairstyles that are similar, and, the fellows, all the way down to the little ones, always wear a coat and tie. My reason for pointing this out is the influence the parents and other adults have on the children. From the smallest there, they begin the hand waving, jumping, and other antics just like mom and dad do it. It reminds me of just how much we do shape the lives of the youngest among us. Their parroting their parents reminds me of that old anti smoking commercial where the dad is outside on the porch with his little boy. He gets called inside the house and lays down his cigarette and once dad is out of sight the little boy picks up the cigarette. The real reason I watch that particular congregation is their singing. They sing out. Yep. They do. Not always with the best of harmony, but, they do belt out the songs and I enjoy that part of it. Their pastor likes to say Amen as the punch line to every sentence, but, that's his choice and they seem to respond to it. Okay. Now you know some about the stuff that interests me. I do try and keep my self appointed status as an Observer Extraordinaire. You do your thing. I do mine. 

 

One thing is clear. One shoe does not fit all even among those who are Christ followers. I grew up in a community of believers that pretty much taught we were right and everyone else was wrong. Even as a kid I recognized obvious hypocrisy in our little world of being right. For instance, we had leaders in our congregation that were at odds with other leaders in the congregation, so much so they didn't speak or have contact with each other and their families didn't either. A kid could see that was not in keeping with the message of unity and fellowship coming from our pulpit. Oh well, enough about that. I am thankful that while we, even as believers, have plenty of faults, God still loves us and works with us to help us be what He would have us to be. And, I learned early on the concept of us being right and everyone else being wrong just isn't how it is. It's not. Sorry if that bothers someone, but, it's good to know that any and all people who have trusted in Christ as their Lord and Savior, they are children of God and our brothers and sisters, period, end of that chapter of the story. Until next time, may God bless each one. Amen. 

Fallback: Here's the blog I wrote 14 years ago on April 25, 2011

 

Brady and Alex wishing a Happy Brithday to their MiMi.

Welcome back from a busy Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I do hope you are well as we begin another work week. It is Monday, April 25, 2011 and I bid you welcome. I spent Friday getting ready for Saturday since that was the Queen of our home and our heart's birthday. She pretty much did what she wanted to do. We started off with a special breakfast and ended the day with 17, (only 2 missing), of us gathered at the restaurant to celebrate and sing our love and appreciation for her. I heard her tell several folks that it was one of the best birthdays she had ever experienced. How do you like that? This was exactly what I had hoped would happen. On Sunday we experienced a wonderful time of fellowship as the two older adult classes took care of feeding breakfast to our little ones as they all gathered for a special Resurrection Day celebration. Our services were emotional as we recounted the price paid for our sins and the power our Lord demonstrated in His resurrection. It was a Day suited for worship of our great Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We then hurried home, grabbed a bite to eat, changed clothes, and drove across town to visit my brother. He was in a good mood and we enjoyed our time together. By 8:30 last evening I was fading fast, having used up just about all I had available in the resource column. But not to worry, I am up and at them, refueled and ready, but still thanking God for all that He allowed us to experience these past few days. Amen.

My daddy.

I also took advantage of being off on Friday to go to the Social Security Office and finish my application to be enrolled in Medicare. I had to show them my original of my birth certificate. I got there about 30 minutes early and was second in line, therefore, I was up at the window waiting on the technician about 10 minutes before the magic window was rolled up. You can count down to the exact second because those windows will not be moving until the little hand is precisely on the 9 and the big hand precisely on the 12. I know. I know. Those folks are probably doing the best they can but I just never went in for not being able to do anything at all until the buzzer goes off. I used to have a few folks that liked to operate like that in my organization and they soon learned that taking care of business came first, period, end of story. But to each his own. The lady I dealt with was pleasant enough and I was out of there within twenty minutes. While I sat before the shuttered window I was able to study my birth certificate closer than I had before. My dad passed away in January of 1954 but I could certainly see a little of me in that signature on that official birth certificate. I'm pretty sure there's no handwriting gene but the similarity was striking. I have to wonder just how much more of him I am carrying around in these increasingly weary bones of mine. I was 7 1/2 when he left us and he would have been 88 this coming Thursday. Because of the truth behind the resurrection, I will see him again some day. Happy Birthday Dad.

My Granddad.

The good news is that God always knows best and while I never got to know my dad that well, God did give me my mom's dad to help influence and mold my life. His birthday is also this week and I am not alone in pausing to thank God for this simple, ordinary man who made such a huge impact on so many lives. I don't know of anyone who knows me that doesn't also know my grandfather. Even if they just met me, it would not be long before they would hear some of his quotes as well as hearing about his life as a man of faith and family. I don't know how things would have been had my dad lived, but I do know that if I have anything much to offer in the way of being a man, my grandfather had something to do with it. Much of my work ethic, my determination, and a smidgen of my stubbornness can likely be traced back to the role model of my grandfather. He also was at the local meeting place where God's people gathered every service, rain, sleet, or snow, and always early. And you know who was often his sidekick. Okay. Enough said. At the end of the day, my daddy couldn't make me right with God by giving me life. My grandfather could only show me an example of faith. He could not believe for me. I stand before God as His very own beloved child only because of me having put my faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. And that my friend, is a sonship we all can possess and it matters not only for this time, but also forever and ever in eternity. Amen.         More later.

"Times of trouble send our hope deep down into fundamental truths." ~ Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834 - 1892)

Hope everyone is safe from yesterday's swath of thunder bumpers, I'm talking about the ones that came through our area here in Southeast, Texas. Today is Thursday, April 24, 2025, and, as always it's a good day to stop, think about it, and give deserved praise to the God above, for He is the maker of heaven and earth. We see this clearly declared in Psalm 146:6 "He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them--He remains faithful forever." I mention the thunder storms here because they caused the electrical power to go up and down like a yo yo and just when you thought it was back on again, bam!, off it went. Oh well, I might be a slow learner but I did quit setting the clocks on the stove and microwave ovens after the third time. Genius. Right? Storms. They are a part of our existence. No one is immune. The Word of God speaks directly to these difficulties in the life of those who occupy the planet. You often here the preacher say this, "You are in a storm, coming out of a storm, or, getting ready to go through a storm." That uses the storm as a metaphor for the ups and downs, troubles, sorrows, and challenges we face in life. While that sounds somewhat of a downer, it actually is a part of our development. The good news is how God has promised to be with us regardless of the situation or circumstance. (Hebrews 13:5 ....God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.") Truth. Sometimes I bring the storm on myself. Sometimes God allows a storm knowing what is best. Other times we just deal with the storms that come from living in a sin cursed world. A shepherd boy named David was inspired to pen these famous words, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (as recorded in Psalm 23:4) My personal experience says this: God is faithful, period. That's what I am holding onto as we continue our journey here.

I will have to tell you I was a wee bit miffed by the power going on and off. Aggravating. Annoying. But, why let something like that get me all bent out of shape? Maybe because I am me, myself, and I. That doesn't excuse it, but, it does explain it. I'm unhappy while other folks are surveying the damage or even worse some are being treated for injuries brought on by the storm. Storms typically do not come at a convenient time and I had things to do that being without electricity presented obstacles to getting them done. However, not just in the grand scheme of things, in any scheme of things, my issues were nothing compared to what others were dealing with. I noticed on social media how folks in our area were all riled up with the power company. They were saying things like, "Something needs to be done about this." "It happens all the time." "They are picking on us." How easy for anyone to get on the band wagon when it's really not that big of a deal. It isn't. The outcome? The power came back on, stayed on, made it to Wednesday evening Bible study, and, here I sit on a Thursday morning with everything working. Why the fuss? Again, me, myself and I. "I think I'll go flag down one of those repair trucks and find out why they can't get this all working again." Maybe next time. I would pray for patience but I am well aware of what the Bible says about that, ( ...knowing that tribulation works patience, Romans 5). What is the answer? 1st Thessalonians 5:18, "in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you". I need to go work on that. Today, tomorrow, the next day, and every day for the rest of my days. Amen.

"There is just one place for me, I'm happy when I'm near you ~ It's wonderful as heaven, a special kind of heaven, but only when I'm near you ~ Times when we're apart I wonder how I can face my heart ~ Say you'll never stray ~ More than just two lips away ~ If my waking hours could be spent while near you ~ I would be content, wonderfully content, just to be near you Make my life worthwhile ~ By telling me that I'll ~ Spend the rest of my days ~ All of those happy, happy days So near you...." (Number one song in America the month and day my wife was born, 'Near You' by Fracis Craig and his orchestra)

Good morning. Today is a most wonderfully special day in our family. It is Wednesday, April 23, 2025, and, we are celebrating the birthday of the wife of my youth, Marilyn. An old preacher once said that sometimes you find someone who gets saved better than others. I feel the same way about my wife. There are those who are unique but in her case she's more unique. I should know. From the first time I laid my eyes on her, that skinny little bit of a girl up in the choir loft at a singing school some sixty three years ago until this very day, she stands out. I know that Proverbs 31 is often tagged on to someone's name without much thought. The context of that tribute is to honor a woman of distinction who willingly served the Lord, her family, and others. Last evening, myself and our three sons met at the restaurant and we did just that. We honored our woman of distinction because according to the text, that kind of woman deserves the honor and recognition due her. Because times are different today, it is somewhat difficult to make one to one comparisons from that passage, but, I can honestly say and I mean this in the most prejudiced manner possible, Marilyn, in an overall sense, better fits its description than anyone else I've known. And, may I say this about that: I'm known many wonderful Proverbs 31 ladies. In short, she is a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, friend, and, more importantly, servant of the Living God. 

I well understand this qualifies as being over the top, however, at our age we never know how many more opportunities we have to say what needs to be said. Our sixty plus years of marriage has not been a tip toe through the tulips. Having said this, I want everyone, everywhere, to know that God blessed me so very much when He providentially brought us together. I love her. I love her family. She loves me. She loves my family. The song "Whither Thou Goest" was sung at our wedding on that frigid evening back in December of 1964. I had no idea it was taken from the words were spoken by Ruth to her mother in law, Naomi. A mother-in-law song? Who knew? But, the text reflects on our journey together: From the Book of Ruth Chapter 1, Verses 16-17

But Ruth said:

"Entreat me not to leave you,
Or to turn back from following after you;
For wherever you go, I will go;
And wherever you lodge, I will lodge;
Your people shall be my people,
And your God, my God.
Where you die, I will die,
And there will I be buried.
The Lord do so to me, and more also,
If anything but death parts you and me."

 

Okay, thanks for reading my blog today. Many of you know that I am speaking the truth of her demonstrated love for the Lord and others. May God continue to bless my dear wife as we face each day of the journey He has given to us, together. Amen. 

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." ~ Walt Disney

Hello, welcome, and here's to wishing each one a terrific Tuesday, on this April 22, 2025. You know, as in get out there and get it done! Let's face it, the only way to get it done is to go do it! Be the person who is known as one who gets it done! If you know you can be better, well, be better! Do it when you are scared, when you are tired, and when you are alone, but, do it! Pay no attention to your mood, motivate yourself to finish the task at hand! Don't make excuses, they will only delay working your work to get it done! Don't settle, and don't wish you could, just work until it's finished! Yikes, complaining, it will never get across the finish line! Talking is not doing, doing is how things get done! Don't let the impossible keep you from accomplishing your goal! Whining will not work because most don't care and certainly do not want to hear it, therefore, use that energy on the task at hand! What should scare us the most is being average when we have the potential to achieve great results! Okay. I copied a few of those and wrote the others, mostly they are directed towards the audience of the fellow sitting at the computer screen clicking on the keys right now, however, they are admonitions for any and all who will hear and implement them as they make it each day. I was fortunate, no, I was blessed, let me correct that one, I was very blessed and privileged to head up an organization of over 150 people some time back, in a galaxy, far, far away. And, it was exhilarating to be a part of a team that achieved so many great accomplishments. As our most recent previous President would say, "Folks, that's not hyperbole!" And, it isn't and I know it because I was there and I was a part of it. How did we do what we did? The people! That's right. They knew how to get out there and get it done! Yep. And, they made yours truly look really good. They did! What a blessed experience it was. Thank you Lord! Amen.

 

I know that was perhaps a wee bit over the top but that's so much like me. You be like you. I'm not saying I don't need to change and I'm not saying you don't need to change, because, as long as we are breathing air on the planet and our mental faculties are somewhat workable, we can still grow and develop. I can. You can. And, yes, I used the somewhat workable mental description because, speaking for myself, it's not quite as sharp as it was when I was leading that organization so many years ago. However, it is still able to do what it can do. I am a Bible teacher for nearly 60 years. I believe it is my spiritual gift. I could study the material and make a presentation, but, when I yield myself to the Holy Spirit, well, He can speak through me and that my friend is when truth is imparted. That's when change can be recognized, felt, and responded to, beginning with me, myself, and I. Yep. There are other changes I need to pursue as well. I was leaning towards renaming my pup, Lil Miss Biscuit, to a new name, Five Miles. That way I could post on social media each day how I walked Five Miles this morning. That is a joke. Go ahead and smile. It will make you better able to face your day. Okay. I'm going to stop here because as they used to say back where I am from, I need to go see a man about a dog. Meaning: I've got other fish to fry. I'll let you work the application out for yourself. Don't forget to remember the Goodness of God and His blessings that should elicit thankfulness from us all. As always, I am unanimous in that assessment. I am. Take care, and Lord willing I will catch back up with you soon. May God add His blessings. Amen. 

"For Peep's sake, who ate my Easter candy?" ~ copied

Good morning after Resurrection Sunday on this Monday, April 21, 2025.  The above photo was taken on Resurrection Sunday, April 5, 1953. It was the last Resurrection Sunday we would celebrate as an intact family. Dad, Cecil Sr., passed away on January 2, 1954, at age 31 due to heart failure associated with untreated pneumonia. I wish I could remember more than I do about the years leading up to his untimely and devastating death. My recording machine, (brain), has put up a no passing sign on those years. Why? Good question. Most likely it has to do with the trauma associated with this life changing event. I've written quite a lot about all of this in my blogs but when I look at this photo it does bring up the issue again. That would be yours truly sitting by mom on the bottom left and on the top row, JoAnn is standing on the right, we are the only two left. Everyone else has gone on to their reward. Dad, Jimmy, Kayla, Donald, mom, and Francis, all gone. That particular photo was taken in Granny and Paw Paw Mac's living room in Hornbeck, Louisiana. We were dressed to attend Resurrection Day services at Missionary Bible Baptist Church. We, most likely had left Port Arthur, Texas, and driven up on the previous Friday. As you can tell mom was serious about how we looked. And, I can with confidence tell you the locals who attended that Church most likely didn't go to the extent she did. Everything we wore was ironed. My mom believed the way we looked was a direct reflection on her. Absurd? Not really. In fact, I think it was fairly common among many moms back in those days. We had no way of knowing that in just 10 months after this photo was made we would be living with Granny and Paw Paw.(We lived with them until our new home was built, some 2 years later.) Don't get me wrong, I have bits and pieces of scenes, but, at seven going on eight I should remember much more with clarity. I do know it's all there. Filed away. One of these days it just might bust out and I will be overflowing with old-new stuff to share. At any rate, I do hope you and yours enjoyed a wonderful Resurrection Remembrance Day. We did. The services at our local assembly, Mims Baptist, were not just remarkable, the message went forth and many called on our Risen Savior to save them. Can't get any better than that. Amen!

 

I had myself a little unplanned weakness spell yesterday morning. Being a diabetic I am more than familiar with sinking attacks when my blood sugar is too low. This was a little different. I had to lay down for a few minutes. It was most likely a combination of me taking my morning medications on an empty stomach and that may have precipitated a fall in both my blood sugar as well as my blood pressure. I mention it because my wife reminded me that my dad died from the ailment called stubbornness. He had been ill for over a week and wouldn't go to the doctor. The wife wanted me to go to the urgent care. Are you kidding? No way. I finally got enough better to get dressed and get around. I was able to make it for Church services but I did feel a wee bit wobbly at different times during the day, however, once I had eaten and taken a two hour nap, it was all better. Eating and napping. I highly recommend it. I am much better today although I feel slightly vague, (thinking or communicating in an unfocused or imprecise way). Having re-read today's edition, I think I hit the vagueness bullseye squarely in the middle. I can't promise anything but maybe tomorrow. Maybe. Why? Because as Ira Stanphill wrote his classic from 1950, "I don't know about tomorrow but I know Who holds my hand." I can say Amen to that. What about you?

 

Until next time,  "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6: 24-26.

"Those who deny the Deity of Christ, the authority of the Holy Scripture, their obligation to the Moral Law, etc., forsake Christ." ~ Simeon Ashe, English Clergyman, died in 1662

Good morning, today is Friday, April 18, 2025, also known as Good Friday because of the remembering of the judgment, crucifixion, and burial of Jesus, King of the Jews, of Nazareth, and, known also as The Christ, the Anointed One, The Messiah. There's plenty of historical information that gives a very accurate picture of how crucifixions were carried out. It was designed to be horrific and it was. Some estimate that more than 150,000 people suffered this form of execution by the Romans when they ruled the world. Around the time of the birth of Jesus, there were some 2,000 Jews crucified at the order of the Roman authorities. The gore is unmistakable. It was that way for everyone who suffered this fate. Therefore, the text of Scripture does not describe in detail each specific area of the physical ordeal involved because they were and are today readily available. It does, however, point us to the Person of Jesus Christ because it is a stupefying and jarring truth to consider God the very God in human flesh being put to death to gain redemption for God's created human family. I've always been struck in how Matthew, Mark, and Luke emphasize Jesus as the Son of God, while John wanted everyone to know Jesus as God the Son. He begins his record with these words, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." (John Chapter 1, verses 1-3) There's no casual way we can take this truth in. It was this same 'the Word' who was on that cross and it was God's provision of salvation to all who believe.

 

Think about this: Revelation 13:8 states that Jesus was the "Lamb slain from the Foundation of the Earth"— not 'from the Fall of Man'. In eternity past, He knew exactly what Adam and Eve would do before they did it and He had already moved to correct the damage. The phrase "slain before the foundations of the world" refers to Jesus Christ being preordained to die as the Lamb of God, a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, before the creation of the universe. It highlights God's eternal plan for salvation and the preexistence of Christ. This is why we who believe are in utter awe of God's plan and provision. I can't wrap my mind around it. I can't comprehend it. But, praise God, I can apprehend and embrace it by faith. This is what I consider during this week of remembering He who knew no sin being made sin for me. (2nd Corinthians 5:21) He did it. For me and for you. The Amplified Bible adds its illustrative word pictures in expounding on the text from Hebrews Chapter 12, verse 2: [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].

 

No wonder they call it Amazing Grace! Amen? I do love Bible study aids, but, don't get so immersed in the commentaries, the timelines, and, even the vivid descriptions of the horror of it all, so much so that we might fail to remember the Who and the Why of that Man on the middle cross. I'm stunned when I even try to make sense of it all, but, I can only do my best to follow the lead of the so called wise in what they did when they came into the presence of Jesus. Matthew tells us this: "And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh." They got it right. And, so should we! The great news? Resurrection Day came on the first day of the week, (our Sunday), and, you and I can join others on the first day, this Sunday, in thanking God for sending His son to die, to be buried, and to rise again in victory over death, hell, and the grave! (1st Corinthians Chapter 15) Yay! and Amen!

"My evidence that I am saved does not lie in the fact that I preach, or that I do this or that. All my hope lies in this: that Jesus Christ came to save sinners. I am a sinner, I trust Him, then He came to save me, and I am saved." ~ Charles Spurgeon

Good morning and welcome to another day here at the ole blogger ranch. It's good to visit with you, on this Thursday, April 17, 2025. I'm pretty sure nearly everyone is aware of what the terms Holy Week or Passion Week are all about. They connect to the circumstances and events that led up to the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Most secular feeds give at least a feigned acknowledgement as to what this worldwide recognition symbolizes. However, with Jesus it is never only about the historical facts of His life and times, it is now and it has always been personal. The great pulpiteer Charles Spurgeon, (1834-1892), who was nicknamed the prince of preachers, he communicated this truth as given in his quote in today's title. In other words, he could have obtained as many seminary degrees as he wanted, and he could have and was highly praised and recognized for his oratory, but, as Spurgeon saw it, the bottom line with Jesus comes only from a personal relationship. That relationship can only be made real when an individual sees himself as God sees him, a sinner, lost and on his way to hell, and, he then responds to the Holy Spirit's call from the truth about Jesus as He offers salvation for eternity to any who turn to Him, repent of their sins, and, call on Him to save them. A song we sang in our songbook at the Church I grew up in communicated this, "When He said whosoever, He included me." While family may have an impact in exposing their children to truth, no family member can experience salvation for any other family member. I've heard many folks talk about the faith of their mom, their dad, their grandparents, but, it's always, "What about you?" 

 

They predict that here in the United States some $23.6 billion will be spent on Easter related items. That should tell us all why it is talked up in ads and on TV programs. Just like Christmas is not about Santa, (even though I play him), in the same way Resurrection is not about the bunny or even the eggs. It's about the death, burial, and resurrection of my Lord, my Savior, and, I am very glad to belong to Him. The wife and I, believe it or not, once sang duets together. We did. And, people actually requested us to sing. They did. Not anymore. Today my voice, like the old grey mare, it's not what it used to be. One of the songs I've had on my mind this week is one we've sung many times. Written by a very accomplished songwriter, musician, and Christian entertainer, Geron Davis, the song is simply entitled, "I'm Glad I Know Who Jesus Is." You can watch or listen to it on YouTube recorded by many different groups.

I'M GLAD I KNOW WHO JESUS IS
 

Geron Davis

In a little town of Bethlehem so many years ago,
They told Him there was no room in the inn.
But they had no way of knowing Who they had turned away -
The Lamb of God Who would take away their sins.

I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
He's more than just a story;
He is the King of Glory.
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is.

So many people still today don't know who Jesus is;
They've never felt His peace within their souls.
But I want my life to show them how His love can set them free
He's the only One Who can cleanse and make me whole!

I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
He's more than just a story;
He is the King of Glory.
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is.

He's the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End;
He's Counselor, Deliverer to me.
He's the Everlasting Father; He is the King of Glory,
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!

I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is!
He's more than just a story;
He is the King of Glory.
I'm glad I know Who Jesus is.

 

I do hope you know Him personally. I sure am glad I do. I may not always appear to honor Him in my life but thankfully He still loves and keeps me. So, here's the deal: Resurrection family gatherings are wonderful. Our boys grew up with baskets and we hid eggs and we enjoyed all the festivities. Yet, when it comes down to it, it's first and foremost about Him and what He did for me, you, and the rest of humanity. Because He lives I will one day be where He is, forever and ever, Amen! What a thought! Amen. (John 14)

"Money can be taken away from you, by the IRS or by pistol. That's why I always measure riches in terms of wisdom. No one can ever take from you what you know." ~ Juan Gabriel

Welcome, my friends, to another edition where I will do my best to put something on the page that will connect to someone, somewhere. It is Wednesday, April 16, 2025. I open with a comment intended for Mr. Elon Musk and those who make up the Department of Government Efficiency, DOGE. I wanted to let them know while there's no doubt H-U-G-E (think Trump) amounts of waste, fraud, and abuse within the workings of the Internal Revenue Service, IRS, the collection process is working effectively and in a timely manner. I realize that I gave them permission to take the money from my bank account, and, they followed my instruction precisely, I still, at least in the back of my mind thought it might take a few days for the bureaucratic process to get its act together well enough to fetch my funds. Not on your life! People wait for months to get through some of the obstacles that delay their entitled government service. But, when it comes to collecting the money, well, they are very efficient. My point? Take the model from the collections process and transfer it to the areas where service is either lagging or non existent. Think about it. Look it up but when you do you will find that in 2024 the IRS had collections in the trillions of dollars. They do it very well. Very well indeed. For an agency that oversees the federal tax code which is incredibly complex—so complex that it covers 6,871 pages. If you add in the U.S. tax regulations, which are the U.S. Treasury's official interpretation of the tax code, to that, you'd be up to 75,000 pages. But, when it comes to pulling money from your bank account, as the Jackie Gleason's character, Ralph Kramden, on the mid 1950's comedy sitcom, "The Honeymooners" might have said it, "It's bang zoom to the moon." They did wait until the evening of the 15th, therefore, I suppose I should be grateful. I'm just joking here. Make government as a whole as efficient as their money snatching process and we all will be better off. Thanks for allowing me this time to do a wee bit of venting. (Venting is the act of releasing intense emotions, often negative ones like anger or frustration, to someone else, sometimes in a way that is dramatic or unfiltered. It's a way of expressing feelings and can sometimes offer temporary relief.)

 

I agree. That's a lot of words to explain something that shouldn't require that many. Here is the proper way to identify my style of writing: A run-on sentence, also known as a fused sentence or comma splice, occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined together in a single sentence without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Essentially, it's a sentence that has multiple complete ideas strung together without being properly separated. I couldn't have said it better myself. This type of writing can be a hassle for the readers. However, some of the recognized greatest writers were frequent users of the run on. I'm not trying to get my name added to that list because for me, I just write. What you see is what you get. I sometimes re-read some of my blogs and I can see how laborious getting through them can be. I will do my best to do my best to try and be more succinct, however, I must tell you, it's a little like losing weight. As the song puts it, "Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you, tomorrow You're always a day away." Meanwhile, you just get out there and count today as precious, thank God for it, and do your best to love Him and to show that love by touching the lives of others. May God bless. Amen.

“I’m proud to pay taxes in the United States; the only thing is, I could be just as proud for half the money.” ~ Arthur Godfrey, (1903-1983) American radio and TV presenter and entertainer

Happy federal tax day, America! Today is Tuesday, April 15, 2025, and, I did get my taxes filed and paid. I did. Yesterday! My first effort on Sunday evening was rejected. Do what? That's right. I had a problem with the return itself and the IRS rejected it. They did. I know. That would make some folks happy but it caused me a fair amount of anxiety trying to figure out what I did wrong. And, while our return is not that complex, since we are, as Santa and Mrs. Claus, in the Christmas entertainment business, well, our return does constitute a number of pages. Thankfully, contrary to what Mrs. Claus would tell you, I read carefully the reason it was rejected which gave me an area to look into, and, after some wailing and gnashing, and a fair amount of flailing, I made some changes, resubmitted it and it was accepted. Thank you very much. Ha! Therefore, I expect they will be separating us from the amount we owe via an electronic extraction, today. While most joke about death and taxes, in reality, the inspired word from the Lord through the Apostle Paul reminds believers of this truth: Romans 13:6-8 New Living Translation (NLT) "Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority. Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another." What government and which authorities would Paul be referring to when he penned those words? Yep. Rome. He went on to say this to his sidekick and son in the faith, Timothy, ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-4 "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." ~ Thanks for reminding me, myself, and I, because in the divided, heated world of politics we live in, well, it's easy to forget these admonitions. Can I get a witness? Yep. Me too!

 

I had no idea we have so many fried gizzard lovers lurking here and there out in the blogosphere. Thanks for all the comments regarding my blog written on the subject back in 2009 and republished last Friday. In today's world gizzards are not that easy to find. They pretty much have stopped putting them in the package when you buy a whole chicken. I became a frequent customer of a particular Hartz location where they would fry up my gizzards. The lady who was the operator of the franchise was always under the gun because of the increased cost of doing business. Rent, food, people, essentially, everything was costing more. Well, they had to make changes. They increased their prices. However, they made one change that I could not allow to stand. They began cutting the gizzards into pieces and counting a dozen of the pieces for sale. Hello? Not on my watch! I not only knew the lady at the counter, I knew by sight the young man who did most of the frying. When I came in I ordered my one dozen fried to go and I made it clear that I wasn't interested in pieces. They always laughed but since I was a frequent flyer there, they accommodated my request. On a sad note, they eventually had to close. The pandemic, the increased cost of pretty much everything finally took them out. I now have to drive over the hills and through the woods to get to a place that actually sells fried chicken gizzards. Not that many left, so, to all my gizzard loving friends, I say: Enjoy them while you can! 

I want to encourage any and all who read my blogs to seriously consider plugging into a Bible study somewhere. Hearing from God almost always involves His inspired word, The Bible. Studying with others and being able to care and support each other, well, that's how God intended for us to hear from Him and to stay in fellowship with Him and with others. I'll leave you with this verse to think about, ~ Hebrews 4:12 English Standard Version "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." ~ Now, get out there and have yourself a great rest of the day, in Jesus Name. Amen.

"A.I. won't replace humans, but humans using A.I. will replace humans who don't." - Lucas Rizzotto, young Brazilian technologist behind many exciting futuristic online projects

Welcome, welcome, it's Monday, April 14, 2025, and, as always, it's a good day to rise and shine and give God the glory. Amen. The cartoon characters above are furnished compliments of a Artificial Intelligence, A.I., utility program, and, they are supposed to represent the program's idea of what yours truly would look like as a cartoon character. First of all I wanted to let my readers know that us older folks, (as in three score and ten, plus eight years, plus 6 months), can figure out how to use technology too! Let's hear it for us older folks! Yay! Okay, that response was pretty weak but I'll take it on a Monday morning. The word artificial can be said to be a copy of something natural. The word intelligence has to do with the acquiring and application of knowledge and skills. Okay. I was well aware of A.I. before it became a computer based software program that performs human tasks which normally requires human intelligence. Yep. Back in the day, we defined it as someone masquerading as being smart and skilled but they didn't possess any of it. They were imposters. We used to call them empty suits. I'll let you figure that description out on your own. They appeared to be intellectually adept and they typically could talk a good game but at the end of the day they brought nada to the table. (Nada, from the Spanish meaning nothing.) Some of them reminded me of what we often see in our politicians, there was no there, there. I know this new wave of A.I. computer programs promote a utopian world waiting to be embraced, and, it may well make some huge steps in that direction. However, I, for one, will keep my eyes wide open to see if it too ends up as an empty suit. Let me know which cartoon character you like the best because you might be seeing more of it in the future. Thanks.

 

We have been so busy. How busy have we been? Thanks so much for asking. Well, maybe busier than an anteater at a picnic, or busier than a bear at a beehive, or busier than a farmer with one hoe dealing with two rattlesnakes, or busier than a palm tree in a hurricane, or busier than a termite at a sawmill, or busier than a cranberry merchant at Thanksgiving, or I'll let it rest with this final one, busier than a centipede at a toe-counting contest (that last one with credit to Foghorn Leghorn). We spent early last week getting ready for our house guests who came over from Louisiana to attend the ladies banquet at our Church. Back in the day, the wife and I could get our home spic and span in about half of a day. Not any more. Clean a little. Rest a little. Clean a little. Rest a little. After that, we planned out the meals and did the preparations. They came on Wednesday and we all enjoyed the Bible study at our Church that evening. On Thursday morning we all showed up to the old people's choir practice, (called Legacy), but, I think everyone knows what it really means. They left there and went over to get the wife's banquet table decorated. That evening we had the banquet and it was really great and, praise the Lord a fellow in our Bible study class, (called Lifegroup) showed up to help me take care of waiting on my table. I'm not that good at guessing at how far I was away from where the food was being prepared but they had rest stops along the way for people my age. I exaggerate a wee bit but we did git-er-done! Friday morning we had a big breakfast and send off. It was great fun. Now I have the next few days to try and find where my wife hid everything that I had laying here and there. It's like a treasure hunt of sorts. I'm told not to worry, it'll be fun! 

To be clear, we had a blast and I hope someone took photos so I can see what it is that I enjoyed so much. Just joking. Lighten up a little. The jokes about aging are becoming all too true but you might as well laugh anyway. I do know my memory is not as sharp as it used to be. And, by the way, my memory is not as sharp as it used to be. I thought that was funny when I read it, but, maybe not. I do still know one thing worth passing on: The only living that will count for time and eternity is the living done to honor God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit and it typically shows up in our loving of God and others as shown in our service rendered. I know. Wordy but worth it. Take care. I mean it. And, remember to thank God for His blessings. Amen.

"I was looking back to see if you were looking back to see If I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me...." from the song written by Jim Ed Brown and his sister Maxine

Good morning and welcome. Today is Friday, April 11, 2025. (I noticed I put March yesterday. Old people. What can I say?) You've heard of throwback Thursday, well, today I want to share one of my previous blogs and I am calling it fallback Friday.  (It was actually written on a Thursday but I made up the fallback moniker so that's my story and I am sticking to it.) I chose this one because it received quite a few reads, nearly 2,400. I still love me some gizzards but sadly I have had to do even more to greatly reduce my intake, greatly, for health reasons. As for my next new blog, (and yes, I do know that Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 1:9, there's nothing new under the sun), Lord willing, come Monday, I will do my best to be here slapping the computer keyboard to provide material for our next visit. Amen.

April 16, 2009

Dreaming about fried chicken gizzards!

Sorry to start your day off with a story about chicken innards and entrails but that’s what I am thinking about on this finger lickin good Thursday, April 16, 2009. Since I have been out and about more lately which takes me away from the office, I often find myself in need of a snack before I get back. As it turns out I found this wonderful fried chicken joint in a small town and they fry up the very best gizzards you could ever dream about or imagine. So you have never dreamed about or imagined yourself eating fried chicken gizzards? While you are probably not alone, you also likely do not have a clue as to what you are missing! The scientific name for a bird gizzard is: ventriculus, gastric mill, and/or gigerium. Gizzards are considered to be a dietary staple and great finger food in many places all over the world. Sure, some folks would rather not even think about eating an organ whose primary purpose is to help grind up food for digestion BUT the proof, my friend, is in the eating, not the science!

I can’t even remember when I began liking chicken gizzards. I know I never became a lover of chicken livers but I remember that even as a kid my mom would cook the gizzards and set them aside for me. My wife picked up on this when we started out so I have been a committed chicken gizzard consumer for nearly my entire life. A few years ago I learned they were not entirely helpful in terms of managing cholesterol levels. In fact, one cup of gizzards will provide 179% of the daily cholesterol one should be consuming. What a bummer! This news caused me to back way off gizzards for a long time even though I never read anywhere about chickens suffering from high cholesterol.

Now I am back on the gizzard wagon but must try to do my best not to over do it. In addition to the cholesterol issues these little tasty delights tend to throw my blood sugar for a loop for at least a day or two. Therefore, I must exercise some strict discipline because to tell the truth, it’s hard to pass up this place when I am out and about. It seems that my subconscious kicks in because in my trips I somehow end up landing near this place. Here’s what happens when I go in there. They now know me and ask immediately if I want my dozen gizzards. I nod and they signal the cook. He gets them quickly into the fryer and in about ten minutes they fill up a basket with my dozen (it’s typically 15 or more), and I head on down the road chewing on these remarkable little culinary treats. I have had to give up so much since learning about having diabetes but chicken gizzards are still in play at this time. Most folks will never have to worry about cutting back on their intake since they are not even close to being tempted by the thought of a wonderfully battered, deep fried, scrumptious gizzard. That’s not the case for me but I will do my best to force myself to drive a different route except for those days when I agree with many other folks when they say: “Well, we all gotta go someday, why not let it be while enjoying some piping hot fried gizzards?” You’ve never heard that said before? Wow! You do need to get out more. Have a wonderful day and may God help you to find something you really enjoy as well as I do my fried gizzards! Amen. ……..More later.

"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.

"When you encourage others, you in the process are encouraged because you're making a commitment and difference in that person's life. Encouragement really does make a difference." ~ Zig Ziglar, (1926-2012), Author and highly touted motivational speaker

Here we go again. Today is Wednesday, April 8, 2025, and, I do hope you are off to a good start. I do thank those who have let me know they enjoy reading the stuff I sling onto the electronic page. Encouragement. We all enjoy it, and, truth be told we all do better when we feel encouraged. Some people have an encouraging spirit about them. Just being who they are in Christ lends itself to the encouragement of others. For those of us who are Christ followers and members of His established local called out assembly, His Church, well, encouragement of others is not an option, it's a mandate. Here are a few instructional words from our How to Live Manual, God's Holy Word:

 

Hebrews 10:24-25 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. ~ 1 Corinthians 14:26 What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. ~ 1 Corinthians 14:12 So also you, since you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek to abound for the edification of the church. ~ Ephesians 4:15 but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, ~ Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. ~ Hebrews 3:13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin ~Romans 15:1-2 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

 

I mention this because I need to be reminded of it, often. I grew up going to Church services all the time. Every service, all the time, period. However, among the members there were not a whole lot of folks who carried a joyful countenance as they went about their daily lives. A young person would soon get the idea that being a Christian meant mostly a life of bearing with it and learning how to grimace your way through it all. There were a few exceptions. Thank God for that. There were some in that very conservative local assembly who may not have had a clue as to the meaning of the word edification, but, they had the love of Jesus in their heart and because of that they tried to build up others. (The Greek word for "edification," meaning the act of building up or promoting spiritual growth, is "oikodomē" (οἰκοδομή). Those people took the time to encourage me and in so doing they contributed to my growth. They have now gone on to their reward but I remember them and I thank God for their helping me along my way. Amen.

 

We do live in a very critical world where tearing folks down seems to be almost like a sport.  Talk about contagious, that critical and negative spirit can spread like wildfire. It can. It really can. I need to be on guard. You need to be on guard. Can it happen to a born again believer? Most certainly, it can! Can it happen to a local congregation? It can! The Apostle Paul wrote letters to the local congregation meeting in Corinth, Greece, (1st and 2nd Corinthians), and he gave a scathing rebuke for how they were treating fellow members. It can happen. Here's a confession for you. I am good at it. That's right. I am good at finding what's wrong with others and expressing it. That's why I wrote today's episode because I don't want to grimace my way through life, but, rather, I want to, we all should want to, live in a way so that others see what we are doing and they give honor to our Father in heaven. (Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16) You pray for me and I will pray for you. That's how we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 3:18) Get it? Good. Me too! Amen.