Wisdom v. Age

By Willa Johnson

“You’re old enough to know better!” What child has not heard that? Most parents have uttered those words. My question is, “What is ‘old enough’?”

Occasionally a good email comes through that needs to be shared with everyone. One such message consisted of a conversation of a 12-year-old lad who called into a morning radio talk show in Houston, Texas. He was broken-hearted because he had just put his new calf down. It had fallen and broken its back. He wanted to tell the radio people that God “told me something.” Choking on tears, he said, “God told me when I asked ‘Why?’ that he understood because he, too, lost Someone special to him. God went on to tell me that he gave up his son for a purpose. He told me he really did understand how I felt about losing my pet calf.” Attaining a stronger voice, Logan went on, “So, I just wanted you guys to know that God understands when we lose a loved one or a pet. We should always remember that God gave his son, too, and he understands. He will always understand. Just run to him.”

Mike thanked Logan for calling in with his story commenting, “Logan, you’re wiser than you know, buddy.” Logan said, “Sometimes I’m not very wise ‘cause I’ve done a lot of stupid stuff, but I’ve learned from them.” Mike responded, “That’s what makes you wise…someone who learns from his mistakes.” Logan replied, “Well, I just figured I ought to call and share with you guys” and signing off with, “love you.” Mike answered, “Love you, too. Bye.”

Wisdom does come from age and experience. Some children are forced to grow up wise because they have to; others are spoon-fed to the point where they take a long time to learn, sometimes never.

The book of Proverbs is filled with verses dealing with wisdom and one verse that is repeated more than once is found in chapter 1, verse 7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

One time during a Bible study an elderly lady commented that she resented the phrase “the fear of the Lord” because she preferred to think of God as a Loving Father, not some mean person who frightens one. The minister explained that the “fear” should be interpreted as “awe” such as in the song Awesome God. If we believe that God is all-powerful, shouldn’t we be in awe of what He is capable of doing?

Further on in that same chapter of Proverbs we read: “Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord. They would (have) none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.” (28-30) In other words, it is a fearful thing to not heed God or His Word. The chapter ends with a promise, however. “But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.”

Do all people with knowledge have wisdom? No, and again I say NO! Last year there was a story about a high school teacher in California who daily belittled Christ and anyone who believed in Him. The teacher, an avowed atheist, seemed determined to do all he could to turn the students away from Christianity. I dare say the teacher is very learned and possesses a lot of knowledge but true knowledge comes from the Lord. An uneducated individual can be filled with wisdom and still lack knowledge. Logan, mentioned earlier, attained wisdom at an early age long before his education was complete.

How many illnesses have been caused because someone harbors bitterness and hatred instead of turning the situation over to the Lord? We cannot control another’s thoughts or actions; only our own. That is why the famous prayer of St. Francis of Assisi is so commendable. God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Amen.

From whence comes wisdom? “For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding” is found in Proverbs 2:6 and in Proverbs 3:7 we read: “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.”

As long as we have breath, we need to apply that advice if we are to gain wisdom. Acquiring it has nothing to do with age. It’s a continuous learning experience from birth to death. You are never too young or too old to become wise!

Willa Johnson writes from Phoenix, Oregon. wjhat@ccountry.com

Wisdom From Above

By Beverly Hill McKinney

If someone asked you if you knew a wise person would anyone come to mind?
James 3:17 describes wisdom: “But the wisdom that if from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

When I think of these traits, I remember a woman I met many years ago.
As a young pastor’s wife, it was difficult for me to know how to respond wisely in various situations. A widowed minister’s wife who was a member of our congregation and whom I looked to for wise counsel, spoke with me often and helped me to have confidence in my answers to others.

This remarkable woman had endured hardships and used those experiences to seek wisdom from God for her life which she freely shared.

In James we are instructed to seek wisdom from above. What are the attributes ascribed to a wise individual in this passage?

1) Purity - As this verse indicates, wisdom comes from above and is first pure. Our lives must be above reproach to be a testimony to those around us. There are many who have an earthly wisdom, but do not live pure lives. This wisdom is not from above and is filled with human frailties. However, when we draw nearer to the Lord in prayer and thanksgiving and depend on Him for our needs and wants, He will begin to fill our lives with pure thoughts and actions.
One of the things I remember well about my friend was her holy living and the influence she was to others. Her integrity was never questioned.

2) Peace-loving - When we think of those we may admire and seek wisdom from, they are individuals who are known for their peaceful lives and demeanor. How can we seek answers from those who have turmoil in their lives and don’t depend on God to control their thoughts and actions?
John 14:27 states: “Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

We can only have true peace in our lives if we are children of God. Christ gives us the assurance in this verse that peace does not come from this world, but from Him. Only by relying on Him can we obtain true peace. By having His true peace in our lives, He will give us wisdom to deal with difficult situations.

3) Gentle or Considerate - In order to have true wisdom, we must be considerate of others and their feelings. Wisdom is not unreasonable. A wise person always looks at all sides of a situation and considers the feelings of those involved. They are not harsh in their judgments or criticisms but find ways to spare hurts and unkindness.

I remember a situation where I had misunderstood someone and they were troubled by my actions toward them. Going to my wise friend, she carefully pointed out my miscommunication but in such a way that I immediately saw where I was in the wrong. She did not condemn me, but considered my feelings in the circumstances and helped me make a wise choice that resolved the conflict.

4) Merciful – James 3:17 states that the wise person is merciful and full of good fruit or blessings. They are always ready to bless others and do not think of themselves. They are helpful, giving, and willing to go the “extra mile” with us.
Those that have touched my life with their wise counsel have also been those who have influenced my Christian walk the most. They have been there when I needed help and have been willing to not only give advice but shower blessings on me.

In Matthew 5:7 (The Message) “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you will find yourselves cared for.” Those that show true wisdom are those who care and shower blessings on others.

5) Impartial – When we approach others seeking wisdom, we want someone who is impartial. Not those who will always take our side but who can weigh what is said and offer impartial advice.

Looking at a wise person, they are not someone who will always give us an answer we want to hear, but will listen carefully and give a fair and correct assessment.

Christ is our great example of an impartial person. Whether he was eating with sinners or sharing with his followers, he shared God’s love with them. His love was the same for everyone and he showed that love for all by giving his life for the world.

When we think of those who were considered wise in the Bible, King Solomon immediately comes to mind. He was given the choice to ask anything of God and it would be granted. He wisely chose wisdom.

Where does Godly wisdom come from? In James 1:5 it states: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.”

As Christians we can come before the Lord and ask Him to give us wisdom for our lives. When others come to us seeking our help and wisdom, we can direct them to the true source of wisdom, our friend, Jesus.

Beverly Hill McKinney writes from Rogue River, Oregon. bmckinnehill@yahoo.com

Godly Wisdom Is God's Job...So Relax!

By Chad McComas

When I read Colossians I relax. I read that it is God's job to fill me with His Spirit, His wisdom, His knowledge, His will. I don't need to worry that there is some truth or wisdom out there that I haven't discovered yet that may hold me back from salvation or entering God's kingdom. I don't need to run after teacher after teacher who claim to have the missing link or the key to the kingdom. There is no religion that has a corner on the salvation market. No matter how “wise” some of man's teachings may sound, they pale in comparison to the wisdom of God. And God is determined to make sure I receive His wisdom. It's all been set up!

Paul writes in Colossians that true wisdom is the byproduct of finding and accepting Jesus Christ. “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves...” Colossians 1:13

In the kingdom of the Son we have our eyes opened to what is true and what is false. Colossians 1:9 “We have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.” Colossians 2:2-4

Getting closer to Jesus Christ means being filled up with spiritual wisdom, live-giving wisdom. Having a connection with Jesus protects us from the “wisdom” of the world that never gives that inner peace and joy. Rather, Jesus told us that He brings us peace. He fills us with joy. He takes away all fear.
But not all who say they worship or follow the Son has true wisdom. There are those in the “camp” who try to create their own wisdom. It's an empty and powerless wisdom.

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ...such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.” Colossians 2:8,23

To protect us from falling prey to false wisdom and false teachings inside the body...Paul encourages us as believers to consider Jesus as our true source for all things. “Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above...set your minds on things above, not on earthly things...let the word of Christ dwell in your richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom...and whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:1,2,16,17

Wisdom is living in Jesus every day. It is a life filled with truth. Jesus told us that He is the truth. A believer's life is a life that is inspired by the Holy Spirit with “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22,23

Being wise is also remembering that it is God's work to save people. We are privileged to be able to work alongside God in His salvation work, but as Paul reminds us, it is His work. We just watch for the opportunities God gives us to share His love and grace with others. “Be wise in the say you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:5,6

Let's spend our time seeking a closer relationship experience with Jesus Christ...and we get wisdom as a Godly bonus!

Chad McComas writes from Medford, Oregon. info@thechristianjournal.org

Wisdom Comes From God

By Denise Spooner

I can remember being a teacher for Vacation Bible School. I had an entire class of third graders for one week and one week only. With eyes to see and ears to hear, these dear children I was entrusted with sang songs of joy and words of wisdom as they shouted gleefully to the Lord. I gazed at each innocent expression with a tender smile on my face, remembering how my childhood also had been so innocent and full of splendor. WOW! How adulthood sure seems to redesign our thinking and leave us empty and often dissatisfied.

My class sang, “Wisdom comes from God,” (Proverbs 2:6) and sang it with full assurance that what we spoke was plain ‘ol truth. Listening to our songs and words we sang made me realize, as we proceed along life’s hidden highway, how quaint of us to think for a moment, that we could ever do anything worthwhile on our own. We are so very limited in the capacity our brain’s have to rationalize or ignore, create or design. What ever makes us think as mere humans, we don’t need the wisdom from our Creator?

Wisdom is defined in many concordances, as the understanding that comes from God. Men such as Luke, James, and Solomon knew the benefits of wisdom. Luke 2:52 says: “Jesus grew in wisdom, stature and favor with God.” James encourages us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, Who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to them.” James 1:5. Solomon shares several thoughts of having wisdom. He begins to tell us in Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” In Proverbs 2:10 he says: “Wisdom will enter our hearts, and knowledge will be pleasant to our souls.” Wisdom and knowledge are coupled together quite often and with great results. Proverbs 3:13 reminds us: “Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding.” And in Proverbs 3:19 & 20, Solomon says: “By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations, by understanding He set the heaven’s in place; by His knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew.” And we believe at any given time we can accomplish what tasks are set before us without the divine help of a being Who created the entire earth and all that is in it? What foolish minds we truly can have.

Proverbs 4:7 tells us that: “Wisdom is the principle thing and to get it.” It leads us in the right path (Proverbs 4:11), it is better than rubies (Proverbs 8:11), and best of all, Proverbs 9:10, says: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Wisdom comes from God, that is the whole truth and nothing but the truth. If we are to have knowledge and understanding we must get wisdom.

I think of WISDOM as being
Words of wealth
Initiating the knowledge of God
Sound advice
Deliverer of understanding
Opening the gates of heaven
Manifesting in our daily walk.

Wisdom cries out amongst the city gates, she raises her voice in the open squares, (Proverbs 1:20).

We must listen, we must ask, and get it now! Wisdom is what we need, understanding is what we receive, and knowledge is our reward. The choice is ours.

Denise Spooner writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. Created2write4him@yahoo.com

Wisdom Is Heavenly Knowledge

By Barry N. Shaw

Wisdom is understanding what is true, right or wrong, and enduring. Wisdom is heavenly knowledge. Without God, there is no wisdom. “For the Lord gives wisdom and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 The Apostle James wrote: James 1:5 It is the Word of God that tells us that to have wisdom about any given issue or thing, we are to pray to Him, consult His Word, and seek His guidance for righteous knowledge and understanding: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8

There are many illustrations of this principle in the Scriptures. Solomon, the wisest of the kings of Israel, had a loving reverence for the Lord and a keen willingness to submit to His Lordship and the commands of His Word. He concluded that “...fear [reverence] of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10

One night: “the Lord appeared to Solomon...in a dream, and God said, ‘Ask for whatever you want me to give you.’” 1 Kings 3:5 Solomon, being “wiser than any other man” 1 Kings 4:31 “prayed not for long life or wealth...but for discernment in administering justice...” 1 Kings 3:11 He prayed: “...give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” 1 Kings 3:9 “The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this...and said to him...‘I will give you a wise and discerning heart...[and] what you have not asked for—both riches and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. I will give you a long life.’” 1 Kings 3:10-14 “Solomon’s wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the men of the East...” 1 Kings 4:30 His wisdom was founded on his unconditional trust in the Lord. With heavenly knowledge Solomon wrote the greatest Proverb: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Jehoshaphat was another good and wise king of Israel who loved the Lord and sought His wisdom in all things. Jehoshaphat faced a menacing army of Moabites and Ammonites whose aim was to destroy Israel. Looking to God for an answer to the overwhelming odds against him, Jehoshaphat proclaimed that there was to be a nationwide fast. He exhorted the people to pray to the Lord for guidance and protection in the face of the terrible danger confronting them. 2 Chronicles 20:2-3. While in prayer, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, one of the Levite priests serving in the Temple. The Lord spoke words of encouragement and reassurance to Jahaziel: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s...Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.” 2 Chronicles 20:15, 17. The next morning, as the enemies of Israel marched upon them, the Lord set ambushes against the aggressors. When the Israelites reached the place where the battle was to be joined, they found only dead bodies—no one had escaped. “The fear of the Lord came upon all the kingdoms...when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.” 2 Chronicles 20:29-30.

The Apostle Paul wrote often of the infinite knowledge and wisdom of God. You can hear his exuberance in describing the extent and depth of God’s boundless wisdom: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.” Romans 11:33-36. You can almost picture Paul jumping with joy!

So, dear saints, seek the Lord’s heavenly knowledge in all situations in life. If we trust in Him and lean not on our own understanding, He will impart to us His great wisdom, our paths will be straight and we shall have great joy!

Barry N. Shaw writes from Applegate Valley, Oregon

Why Pray in Jesus’ Name?

PrayerPower

They peer up at me, two identical little faces, three year old minds poised innocently on the precipice of life’s greatest dilemma.

“Mommy, who’s the oldest, you or Mrs. Jackson?”

“Mrs. Jackson.”

“Then she’s the boss, right?”

The twins know parents are in charge. Their question isn’t, “who’s the oldest?” It’s “who has authority?”

Ah, from the lips of a child, the question of the ages.

Who is the boss? Is someone in charge of us, of the world? Who has the right, the power and the ability to be in control? Is there anyone who can meet need and answer prayers? To whom should we pray?

The Supremacy of Christ
We pray in Jesus’ name because he is God and was coexistent with God in the beginning. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” John 1:1,2

Jesus definitely qualifies as oldest.
“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” Colossians 1:15-20

Jesus definitely qualifies as boss of our lives.

Jesus states, Matthew 28:18 He promises us, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” “I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.” John 14:13 “Whatever you ask in my name”…the authority is his to do it.

We pray in Jesus name because he loves us and his character is trustworthy. He is pure love and cannot withhold from us; love compels his actions. He is all knowledge and wisdom. He knows what I need and how to best meet that need with his all-power. “Christ Jesus…is at the right hand of God…interceding for us.” Romans 8:34 Astonishing, God prays for me, for you!

We pray in Jesus name because he commanded his children to “not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6,7

We pray in Jesus’ name because we’re helpless, unable to change our selves or our world. To pray is to partner with God, allowing his mind, message, and might to flow through us and transform us. To pray is to participate in miracles.
Why pray in Jesus’ name? Why would we not pray in that all-mighty name?

Petey Prater writes from Beaverton, Oregon. peteyprater@yahoo.com

True Wisdom

By Fred Wikoff

Say wisdom and I think King Solomon. This association goes back to my childhood and Bible school. On the wall of our class room there was a picture of Solomon seated on his throne. A servant stood before him, arm outstretched, dangling a baby upside down by one leg, with a sword raised menacingly in the other hand while two women looked on.

Each woman claimed the baby was hers and took the dispute to the king. Unable to tell who was telling the truth Solomon commanded that the baby be cut in two and each woman given one half. At this prospect the real mother pleaded for Solomon to give the baby to the other rather than see her child killed. Thus Solomon wisely concluded that the mother pleading for the baby’s life was the true mother and gave her the child. (See 1Kings 3:16-28)

As a child, I never tired of hearing this story. Solomon’s wisdom in deciding the baby’s fate made such an impression on me that I, like Solomon, also asked God to grant me wisdom above anything else. (See 1Kings 3:10-13) But in the years after, seeing that my wisdom impressed no one but my mother, I knew that obtaining it to the extent I desired would take longer than expected.

Wisdom is a strange thing. We recognize it when it appears, but its origin is somewhat of a mystery. Intelligence, knowledge and experience are closely related to it and clearly influence its use, along with one’s ideals, principles and ethics; but none of these traits are wisdom or define it. And to complicate matters, what is judged wise or unwise at one point in a person’s life may be deemed the opposite as a person’s life experiences change.

Perhaps this uncertainty surrounding wisdom is why most humans yearn for it almost to the point of worshiping it. Adam and Eve certainly desired to be wise like God, “knowing good and evil.” (See Genesis 3:5) They got their wish, but quickly learned that simply knowing right from wrong does not guarantee a trouble free life or that even the right choices will be made . . . especially if the wise choice is other than what one desires.

Even wise Solomon found that “in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.” Ecclesiastes 1:18 In the end he lumped human wisdom along with all of man’s other earthly pursuits as vanity.

The problem is that human wisdom or “the wisdom of the world” as the scriptures call it, is imperfect because it lacks God’s knowledge and guidance. Sin separates mankind from God; and the wisdom of man is corrupted by Satan It is no better than the flawed wisdom that caused this devious rulers own downfall. (See Luke 10:18)

The wisdom of the world is the direct opposite of God’s wisdom. It is the covert force that fuels the battle between God and Satan for our souls. It is the lie behind the rationale for all hate, violence and chaos in the world today. It’s the catalyst that has spawned more than 10,000 different religions; and deceives Christians into supporting over 32,000 different denominations worldwide. (Encyclopedia of American Religions - 2001 edition)

Sadly, these statistics reveal that even Christ’s followers are slow to recognize that it is God’s wisdom, not mans, that brings true harmony and meaning to our Christian service. We accept Christ and his teachings, and with our entire wisdom jump into the battle; shouting orders, taking command, and leading the assault. But this isn’t what God intended . . . he wants to lead . . . we are to follow.

Giving up our worldly wisdom, as imperfect as it is, is perhaps the most difficult choice we face if we are to grow spiritually. It goes against our “I’m number one, I’m my own boss, I can do anything heritage.” It means deflating swollen egos and becoming “as little children;” yielding our entire being to Christ so that he can work through us to expose the false wisdom of the world with the truth of God’s wisdom.

God’s wisdom says, “I created you. I love you. I want you.” “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except by me.” John 14:6

Of earthly wisdom one might well agree with the Apostle Paul and ask: “Where is the wise man . . . has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” (See 1Corinthians 1:20-21)

“For God so loved the world that he gave his Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish; but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

Fred Wikoff writes from Eugene, Oregon. EugeneSpud@msn.com

Touching Others Lives

By Amy Lytle Bielby

Every Saturday, when I was a teenager, I cleaned house for the most interesting, caring, and talented elderly woman. Her name was Mrs. Collins. She was an amazing artist. Every Saturday she would talk to me about painting and her life, growing up as a child, in Germany during the war.

One particular Saturday, when I went over to her house, I saw the most beautiful painting. It was an old man walking through what looked like to me a beautiful enchanted forest. There were different colored leaves on the ground. Almost like the beginning of fall. I saw so many different colors of green trees. It was amazing. The sun shined from a hole in the sky through the trees and glistened amongst perfectly round gray rocks. At the top perfectly blue pieces of the sky showed through. It was the most beautiful setting you could imagine.

While Mrs. Collins painted she had a sad look on her face. I asked if she was okay. She started crying. I didn’t know what to say. I asked if she would like to talk.

She replied, “Oh Amy, this is how I last remember my grandfather. When I was a little girl in Germany he would take me for walks in this forest to get away from the horrors of the war. He loved the forest and we would go there often. He was my best friend. He helped my through that awful war. A lot of my friends were killed and my grandfather was always there for me. Till one day my grandfather went for a walk by himself and never came back. We never found his body.” After hearing her story, I too burst out in tears. All I could say was I’m sorry. Shortly after that she told me her family moved to the United States. I heard that Mrs. Collins painting is now hanging in a museum for all to enjoy its beauty.

I will never for get how something so lovely to me had such a sad story and heartache behind it for someone else. We may be going though the most unbelievable hardships in our lives now, but God is not done. We may not ever understand why we go through some of the things we do. We must remember that God can be using each of us to touch so many people.

Amy Lytle Bielby writes from central Point, Oregon.

Through Eyes of Love

Marcia K. Leaser

Today was a special day; it was Grandma’s day at the Rainbow Christian Camp.
Norma, my son-in-law’s mother and myself were going to spend a day with our two grandsons.

It was a beautiful day and the four and a half hour drive was well worth the time spent with Isaac and Caleb.

We had so much fun. We went on a hayride, took a cable swing ride down the side of a mountain, sang songs, acted silly, did crafts, had lunch and many other neat things.

A lot of pictures were taken, and after seeing the latest one of my four year-old grandson and myself… I mumbled something about not ever looking good in pictures.

Suddenly Caleb stopped stock still in the crowded hallway, looked up at me with a perplexed look on his face. “But Grandma, you’re beautiful,” he said.
It was as if the world stood still. Tears rushed to my eyes, as I hugged Caleb close.

He meant that.

I have to admit not too many people have said that to me… but at that moment I felt like Marilyn Monroe.

On the long drive home, I remembered Caleb’s observation and smiled a secret smile. My heart swelled as I thought of one other Who looks at me with the same eyes of love Caleb does; my Heavenly Father. Neither of them sees the many flaws I do when looking at myself.

No, I didn’t suddenly become photogenic, and I still cringe when I look at my driver’s license, but I do see myself in a different light.

After all, my little grandson thinks I’m Beautiful and that’s all that matters.

Marcia K. Leaser writes from Fremont, Ohio. dawtam@nwonline.net

The Rocking Chair

By Gina Locke

Preparing for a move across the country left me with a number of decisions. One of them was what to take along. We were traveling by plane and owned few material possessions, so we planned to simply mail out a few of our most precious among them.

Whatever happened, our rocking chair was coming along somehow! That chair was purchased a few months before the birth of my oldest daughter. Shortly before her conception, I'd been diagnosed as infertile, and shortly after her conception, I miscarried. Then an amazing twist happened.

I was devastated, while the doctor was nonchalant and quoted facts and figures. However, my blood work came back abnormal, and an ultrasound showed what had happened. I'd miscarried a twin and was still pregnant!

After purchasing the rocking chair, I sat there trying to imagine myself as a mother. The idea seemed unreal. When she was born I was totally unprepared for the wonder of it all, and was amazed to find that I had it in me to love without reservation. That baby had my heart the second I laid eyes on her, and we spent many long hours in that rocking chair, singing lullabies and gazing at each other. She was the first person I told I loved and meant it with my whole heart, and it happened in that chair.

Her two sisters came along and also spent many hours being sung to and rocked to sleep.

Over the next few years the chair changed from a place to be nursed and rocked to sleep to a place to run to for comfort over a skinned knee, a torn stuffed toy, or one "those days" we girls seem to claim exclusive rights to.

After a while though, we all grew. My lap got shorter and the girls' legs got longer, but once in a while we'd still curl up in it and sing. Those moments got further and further apart, and the rocking chair got pushed into another room to make way for desks for our home school. It gathered some dust, but nobody really seemed to notice...until we started packing for our move.

A few short days before the big move the girls and I started talking about the chair as we moved it over during our cleaning. We laughed at some things, smiled at others, while yet other memories caused us to hold back sniffles. Suddenly I realized it wasn't the chair that was so important, it was our love for each other that counted, along with the memories. That chair could break or get burned in a fire, but it wouldn't change anything in our lives that was or will be.

Instead of taking the chair with us, I called the Pastor's wife at church and asked if they could use it in the nursery. They gladly accepted.

I am glad to know that other babies and mothers will get some use out of it. I can only hope that in the moments those moms spend with their babies in that chair, there will be at least one time when they look down at their little child and become overwhelmed with the sense of pure love and blessing that can only come from the heart of a parent when they realize what a wondrous gift the Lord has allowed in their lives.

"Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD"

Gina Locke writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. chipoet@gmail.com

The Greatest of These...

From Behind The Counter
Perspectives on the Landscape of Life
By DJ Note

“But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:3

From behind the counter I listen with gratitude and open enthusiasm to stories of success and failure—tearful triumphs, faith-stretching trials—and the day-to-day routines of Evangel patrons.

Stories make up the fertile history of our lives. We laugh at them, cry over them, we learn to love through them, and pass along to our children and grandchildren the lessons they teach. Stories are the woven fabric of time that colors all that we are.

So indulge me while I relate a couple of pertinent Valentine tales.

The first began some 62 years ago. It was September 29, 1946 on a cotton plantation in Chicot County, Arkansas where two young people pledged their lives and love to one another in holy matrimony.

So what, you say? Weddings happen everyday. Ah! Weddings—yes—but what of marriages? Permit me to continue.

Some sixty years later while on vacation, Norman and Eva Roberts revisited the old plantation where they were wed to see if the old house had weathered time and was still standing. What they came upon was a crew of workers diligent to finish a restoration project six years and six million dollars in the making.

When the project manager realized the relationship Norm and Eva had with the old place—Eva’s father sharecropped on the plantation, while Norm’s dad owned, worked cotton, and grew pecans on the forty acres adjacent to it, and their marriage in the parlor of the old home—plans were set in motion for Norm and Eva to participate in the grand opening festivities the following year.

The Lakeport Plantation House has a rich history worth sharing, but what is richer by far is the life commitment these two ordinary people pledged that day to one another.

Like all married couples, Norm and Eva had their share of troubles, but they held to the promise they made to see each other through the good times and the bad, for richer or poorer. It was a promise each would keep.

Now go with me to another parlor in the middle of the country. The date is February 20, 1941. Another family is gathered near a large bay window in a comfortable home in Chase, Kansas. Stan and Louise Revel have pledged their lives in holy matrimony till death do they part. They, too, will face their own set of sorrows, difficulties and trials. Sometimes the joys and triumphs will be few and far between as they raise their family of five. And there will be times when they wonder if they’ll ever make it. But they do.

The point is: these now elderly couples made a conscience choice to honor their commitments. They realized the vow they pledged was bigger than their occasional need to bail. They weathered their storms, side by side, and refused to quit when times got tough.

Have you ever watched a team of horses plow a field or haul a heavy load from one destination to another? They’re a team because they work in tandem. Harnessed together they’re driven by one set of sturdy leather reins held by one pair of capable hands. They must develop a cooperative spirit, deliberately pulling their share without balking or complaining while under the strain of it all.

Until they learn, it’s not unusual for one to lunge forward prematurely, catching his teammate off guard, only to bear the entire weight of the burden unnecessarily. The pull must be aborted so as not to lose the entire load. The team is halted and “collected” before they can begin again.

But watch after the years have “seasoned” them. Their stops and starts are smooth, and their stride takes on the peace of one consistent motion. They have learned their burden is more easily managed when they pull in cooperation with one another. It’s a wedded sight to behold.

Norm and Eva, and Stan and Louise, are typical everyday couples. What makes them different is that they are among a dwindling number who have kept their resolve to cherish the “I do.” It’s a love commitment hard to find in these days of I-need-to-do-my-own-thing attitudes.

Contrary to the world’s thinking God desires us to learn true forgiveness and selfless cooperation. He wants us to offer to others the hope-filled power that committed love provides. The God of the universe is fully committed to those whom He loves and those who love Him. And He proved it on a cross.

Why not allow God’s capable hands to hold the reins of your life? And if you’re blessed to be half of a team, don’t quit, lean into that harness. Keep that promise to your spouse and to God. Be the best you can be. Pull together to the end. His rewards are boundless. And He’s promised to meet you there!

DJ Note writes from Eagle Point, Oregon.

The Gift of Wisdom

By Troy Pomeroy

Wisdom and intelligence are often confused. They are related and yet different. Put simply, intelligence is “mental horsepower”, or how “smart” we are. Wisdom is knowing what to do with the intelligence we possess.

Intelligence can be developed and increased. We are all born with varying degrees of raw mental ability. From there, we can work hard to stimulate our brains and memorize more facts, learn new concepts, or explore new ideas. Our couture is actually fascinated with this, as evidenced by the popularity of television game shows and board games testing trivial knowledge.

Wisdom comes differently, though it too is increased in our lives. Wisdom comes either from experience or as a gift from God. The most intelligent people can lack wisdom because they haven’t yet had enough experiences in life that use their intellectual skills in making decisions. On the other hand, less intelligent people may acquire great wisdom, as they have learned over time to use their skills and abilities to make careful decisions.

There is no teacher like experience. The people most of us consider wise usually include our parents and grandparents, and our elders in general. That’s because they have more experience in life’s trials and have discovered what works during those trials and what doesn’t. That’s not to say that just because someone is older they are also wise. We probably all know people older than ourselves that are foolish or display little wisdom. Likewise we sometimes come across a younger person who seems to possess great wisdom.

Regardless of age, wisdom is knowing what to do in a given situation. Two people may have the same facts set before them and make very different decisions given those facts. Usually one choice will be more beneficial than the other.

Take the wise men of the Christmas story, for example. They weren’t wise because they knew a lot (though they did). Many people studied the stars. Still more had studied Messianic prophecy. What made the wise men wise was their decision to follow the star to find the Christ-child. The journey was long and presumably difficult. But they used all their skills and chose to press on. They kept their eye on the prize. In the end, they received a great reward, being in the presence of Jesus.

The wise men also used wisdom in “getting out of Dodge.” They received word from the LORD to leave and not lead King Herod to the Christ-child. They chose to heed the voice of God and obey God. That’s wisdom! After all, the fear (holy respect) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (see Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 9:10, Proverbs 15:33, Proverbs 1:7, and Job 28:28 for starters).

All of us hear God’s call at some point. We are directed toward Him and His nature is revealed to us. We all possess enough intelligence to understand the choice He asks us to make. Wisdom kicks in when we choose to follow Him. From that point on, we will be continually faced with choices that allow us to use wisdom. If we do, God is honored and we are blessed. There is always a reward when we keep our eye on the prize.

The really good news is that wisdom is also a gift that God desires for us. In ourselves, we may not feel like we have enough wisdom. But He promises that wisdom is available for all who seek it: "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5

The question remains: Are we wise enough to ask for it?

Troy Pomeroy writes from Eagle Point, Oregon 97524 pastortroy@epacenter.com

The Importance Of The Deity Of Jesus Christ

By James A. Farmer

The foundation and cornerstone (1 Peter 2:7, Psalm 118:22) of the Christian faith is predicated upon the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the historical fact he (Jesus) was both God and man (1 Timothy 3:16). Thus Jesus was equal with God the Father as both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36, 1 John 5:7).

Many worldly religions, modern secular humanism, and cults today deny the deity of Jesus Christ. The Holy Scriptures (The Bible) in contrast has much to teach on this subject.

John 1:1 states: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" and verse 14 states: "And the Word (Jesus) was made flesh, and dwelt among us (Jesus being born of a virgin: Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23).

"All things were made by him (Christ) and without him was not anything made that was made." John 1:3 (Read also Colossians1:13-20 and Hebrews 1:1-8)

Jesus is revealed as the "image of God" in 2 Corinthians 4:4 affirming his deity. Titus 2:13 correctly ascribes deity to the Lord Jesus: Scriptures teach that Christ made "looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.""himself equal with God." (John 5:18) Colossians 2:9 states: "For in him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily."

1 John 4:1-6 exhorts us to try (test) the spirits to "Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every sprit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every sprit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God."

Jesus said unto them: John 8:58 In this Biblical passage Jesus himself claims to be what God said unto Moses in Exodus 3: 13-16, "Truly, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.""I AM God (Jehovah).”

These and other scriptural references in the Bible teach and affirm the deity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Bible believing or "devout Christian" must remain wise and continually seek after righteousness and wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:30). The Godless elements, which are counter to the Body of Christ (the church) and Christianity, and are not of sound doctrine. (See Ephesians 4:14, II Timothy 3:16, II Thessalonians 2: 10-12) Teaching that Jesus is not God must be reproved (Ephesians 5:11). Jesus is either Lord of all, or he isn't Lord at all.

"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." -- Philippians 4:23

James A. Farmer writes from Ashland, Oregon. farmer@sou.edu

Sticks And Stones

By Mary Skoglie

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me."

Yeah, sure. And I'm a tall svelte blonde with a date every Saturday night!
The other day, I was reading a great book, called "Sitting In God's Sunshine, Resting In His Love" by Alicia Britt Chole. I came across a devotion about the fear of man, an all too common problem among, well, men! In it, Chole points out that God knows how much we often give too much power to others' opinions of us. How true that is! The One Whose opinion of us we should most be concerned about is the Lord. Yet how often in my own life, I have run to and fro, seeking the approval of so many--and many I shouldn't have even bothered to care.

When I was dating my ex-husband, he once felt compelled to tell me on our way to a church service how, when we first met, he had assumed I was mildly retarded! Not because of my personality, but because I have a slight speech impediment due to Tourette's, a brain disorder. My ex couldn't figure out why I was so hurt. While he sat blissfully enjoying the service, I sat in the restroom, bawling my eyes out for about two solid hours--and I am not normally one to cry!

When I was young, people could hurt me the most by telling me I was immature (which, in all fairness, I was) or that I was retarded or some very unkind versions of the above. I should not have listened, to my ex or to many of the others. But boy, did I! Yet as Ms Chole points out in her book:
1. The person that stands before us is human.
2. The One that stands behind us is God.

Wow! If only I had thought of that the night before my 39th birthday, and truly took it to heart, I would not have begun drinking.

I got drunk the first time because of humiliation and severe emotional pain, inflicted largely by a woman whose tongue ripped me to shreds. But it really wasn't her fault. The problem was really ME. The person spitting out the words, brutal though they indeed were, was a human, same as I. Life had been very harsh to her, and her tongue that night merely reflected some of what she'd been through. But instead of viewing myself as the beloved, though imperfect, child of God that I am, I soaked in the woman's words. Like water in a sponge, they permeated my very being. I let them, not God's love for me, sink deep into my heart, just as I had my ex's words that day years before.

I gave power to these two human beings that didn't belong to them. I gave them power to crush me. Yet still, it was NOT their words. No, the real problem again was me. I should have asked God how He saw me, and let HIM deal with my pain and humiliation. In the case of the aforementioned woman, I went on to become an alcoholic after she tore my heart. However, I'm now clean and sober 44 months as of this writing, and I'm so thankful to God for sobriety, and just to be alive! I was a binge drinker, which can be deadly sooner rather than later, and I was basically dying of alcoholism at the time I went into Celebrate Recovery. My goal with each drink was merely to get it down as fast as possible so I could get to the next one!

Today I am alive and well and growing in my relationship with God, Who considers me of such value that He was willing to let His Son die on a cross for me, and for all human beings, imperfect as we are. If I mean that much to Someone, I have no business committing physical and emotional suicide, but instead, living for God.

No matter what our past is, may God help us all move forward. May He help us all to see others and ourselves for what we are--human. Loved by God, and only human, each one of us. May we--may I--begin to give God the power only He rightfully has over me. The human tongue can be unbelievably cruel at times, as it states in most of James 3. May I allow God today the power only He deserves--the power to determine who I am and how I feel about myself and others.

May God bless us with more of Him this coming year. After all, "The person that stands before us is human" but "The One that stands behind us is God." (Page 163 of Ms Chole's book).

Be blessed today.

Mary Skoglie writes from Medford, Oregon.

FACT SHEET: Churches in America

FACTS… about American churches:
* Nearly 85% of all churches in America are plateaued or declining;

* Half of all churches in America have not added any new members in the past year.

* Every year, 4,000 churches in America close.

* In the last 15 years the number of adults in the U.S. who do not attend church has nearly doubled.

* Nearly 65% of Americans have no church affiliation, up from 44% in the 1970s.

FACTS… about smaller churches:
* According to a 2003 study by the Barna Group, the typical American church has an average worship attendance of 89 adults.

* More than 60% of American Christians attend a church of this size.

* Of approximately 325,000 Protestant congregations in the United States (2001), and estimated 225,000, 69% have a weekly worship attendance of 125 or less.

* Only 12% of American adults attend a church of 1,000 or more.


For more information about Standard Publishing, visit www.standardpub.com.

Seeing The Far View

By Muriel Larson

My husband was considering a pastorate of a country church. The couple with whom we were staying overnight took us to see the parsonage. We couldn't believe our eyes! It was an old, partly-whitewashed, pieced-together shack with a tin roof--the most disreputable-looking place we had ever seen!

"It doesn't look like much on the outside," said the parishioner who lived in a lovely ranch house next door, "but it's not too bad on the inside."

"And it does have hot and cold running water and an indoor bathroom," added her husband. At the time we didn't know that was more than some parishioners had!
Then the lady tapped me on the shoulder. "Turn around," she said, "and look!" She waved her arm in a sweeping motion. "Isn't that the most gorgeous view you have ever seen?"

We looked out from that high ridge upon miles and miles of fields, trees, and valleys. "You can even see the next state from here," declared the lady. "And look this other way!"

We did as she suggested. That view almost took our breath away, it was so majestic.

My husband was called and accepted the pastorate. His salary was very low, but farm products such as meat, chicken, and vegetables were given us by the people. A wood-burning stove in the living room heated the four rooms of the "parsonage." We also had huge black spiders that especially liked the bathroom. And a neighbor killed a 23-rattle rattlesnake in our garden! (Well, at least he got it before I did!)

But oh, the far view! How it thrilled and rested my soul to look out at it any and all seasons! During the winter, the dark outline of trees stood out starkly from the sparkling white snow, with an intensely blue sky overhead. During the spring, wherever one looked, one could see the pink and white blossoms of apple and cherry trees, the lime-green of freshly-budded foliage, and new shoots of corn coming up in the fields. In the summer the corn grew tall, the blackberries and gooseberries in the valley ripened, and cows grazed contentedly. In the fall, the maples were a riot of color as were the sunsets. Yes, the far view was beautiful!

For the person who lives for Jesus Christ the far view is beautiful. "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

If we live for this life only, we may enjoy temporal conveniences and pleasures. But if through reading God's Word we get a glimpse of the glory awaiting those who live for the Lord, then the beautiful far view will keep our eyes on the goal that He has set for us.

And wouldn't we have more peace and joy in our lives if we would get out eyes off present distressing circumstances and rest them on the far view?

Muriel Larson writes from Greenville, South Carolina. AdviceDrMuriel.blogspot.com

New Camp And Conference Center Opens

By Jeff Wisdom

The former Cascade Boys Ranch in Grants Pass has become a new destination for camps, conferences, families and much more according to director Jeff Shelton. The new camp called Cascade Ranch is owned by ICARE, Inc, a non-profit corporation that has been successfully dedicated to the betterment and strengthening of families since its beginning in 1993 as Cascade Boys Ranch.

With a turn of events in 2007, the board determined to take the property in a more productive direction. Working with boys without strong onsite family involvement emerged as a missing element. Studies indicated that working with the family as a whole in "Family Building" programs would offer more enrichment, help and positive support to the family units.

In March of 2008, the new Cascade Ranch will open with a broader goal of "Building Families" and "Strengthening Lives.”

New programs will include:

A) Family Building Vacations: This offers families, as a whole, an experience of not just exclusively a "fun" vacation, but a "fruitful" vacation together, with the ranch offering life changing counsel a& family interaction along with recreational opportunities.

B) Family Reunions: With room for 48 people and many ranch amenities, this will be a wonderful environment for relatives to reunite.

C) Day Conferences: The day use area can also used during certain seasons for clubs, corporations, churches, and others to meet together in a quiet, natural, and pristine rural setting.

D) Group and Youth Benevolent Camps: The ranch hopes to build an endowment fund to serve many needy families, youth, and children with quality short term camps and conferences for little or no cost.

E) Family Events: The ranch will host anniversaries, weddings, and other family events including assisting in times of traded.

F) Special Groups: Here is offered a wide variety of options, men's and women's groups, retreats, connection and cell group getaways, single parent programs and many other helps programs.

G) Donors Club Programs: The ranch hopes to build a contribution based foundation of operation. The ranch will offer "complimentary guest packages" to these donors during the late fall, winter and early spring. Guests may come to the ranch during this season by reservation as token of appreciation for their contribution to the charity's continued sponsorship of family and
children's' programs.

H) Exclusive Programs: The ranch will offer exclusive confidential programs at times for people who have need of a private retreat or therapeutic reprieve.
For more information on the ranch or booking information contact Jeff Shelton 734-4713 or see cascaderanch.org on the web.

Jeff Wisdom writes from Eugene, Oregon.

New Camp And Conference Center Opens

By Jeff Wisdom

The former Cascade Boys Ranch in Grants Pass has become a new destination for camps, conferences, families and much more according to director Jeff Shelton. The new camp called Cascade Ranch is owned by ICARE, Inc, a non-profit corporation that has been successfully dedicated to the betterment and strengthening of families since its beginning in 1993 as Cascade Boys Ranch.

With a turn of events in 2007, the board determined to take the property in a more productive direction. Working with boys without strong onsite family involvement emerged as a missing element. Studies indicated that working with the family as a whole in "Family Building" programs would offer more enrichment, help and positive support to the family units.

In March of 2008, the new Cascade Ranch will open with a broader goal of "Building Families" and "Strengthening Lives.”

New programs will include:

A) Family Building Vacations: This offers families, as a whole, an experience of not just exclusively a "fun" vacation, but a "fruitful" vacation together, with the ranch offering life changing counsel a& family interaction along with recreational opportunities.

B) Family Reunions: With room for 48 people and many ranch amenities, this will be a wonderful environment for relatives to reunite.

C) Day Conferences: The day use area can also used during certain seasons for clubs, corporations, churches, and others to meet together in a quiet, natural, and pristine rural setting.

D) Group and Youth Benevolent Camps: The ranch hopes to build an endowment fund to serve many needy families, youth, and children with quality short term camps and conferences for little or no cost.

E) Family Events: The ranch will host anniversaries, weddings, and other family events including assisting in times of traded.

F) Special Groups: Here is offered a wide variety of options, men's and women's groups, retreats, connection and cell group getaways, single parent programs and many other helps programs.

G) Donors Club Programs: The ranch hopes to build a contribution based foundation of operation. The ranch will offer "complimentary guest packages" to these donors during the late fall, winter and early spring. Guests may come to the ranch during this season by reservation as token of appreciation for their contribution to the charity's continued sponsorship of family and
children's' programs.

H) Exclusive Programs: The ranch will offer exclusive confidential programs at times for people who have need of a private retreat or therapeutic reprieve.
For more information on the ranch or booking information contact Jeff Shelton 734-4713 or see cascaderanch.org on the web.

Jeff Wisdom writes from Eugene, Oregon.

Love And Justice

By Hugh Deadwyler

I know, first hand, the love of God. When I was homeless, helpless and had no one, He took care of me. I committed myself to God and I learned that there is more to having a relationship with God than just harvesting the bounty of His grace. With that comes the rules, prohibitions, and proscribed ways of living. We of a Judeo-Christian background know the Ten Commandments as well as Jesus’ words to, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

And certainly, there is God’s redemptive power of forgiveness, but the stain of sin, whether practiced casually or in a premeditated way, is an extremely serious violation.

Jesus is not a lamb-carrying pushover that forgives all, indefinitely. He will not be mocked by tolerating ongoing rule-breaking punctuated by only lip-services requests for forgiveness. I don’t believe He plays a sin/repentance game.

I was once in a congregation whose pastoral orientation was: “Love and Grace trump everything.” But I don’t believe God is that simplistic. The Bible is a rulebook as well as a guidebook. Jesus said: “I am not come to destroy The Law, but to fulfill it.”

God’s love and judgment are like two separate wings of an airplane. It takes an appreciation of both to make our personal redemption “fly.”

Several years ago I was hospitalized at the VA. I met a fellow patient, he was friendly, and we talked. He wore a big gold cross on his chest as he told me about his life. He said several times: “Jesus is a forgiving man.”

This is true. But if this individual had stopped, and repented, during the probably several-hundred times he had abused himself with drugs and alcohol, he wouldn’t have been sitting in the psychiatric ward with me, ruined in both mind and body. He talked the talk, but he didn’t walk the walk.

I believe God expects a good faith effort to live in compliance with his law. We have the responsibility to give grace a chance by obeying the rules. “Behold therefore the goodness, and severity, of God.” Romans 11:22

Hugh Deadwyler writes from Salisbury, North Carolina.

Joey...

By Stewart Whittemore

"This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12

My son-in-law, Jeff, coaches my grandson Brandon's Boys and Girls Club High School Division basketball team. On that team they have a standout player named Joey. Joey is a challenged youth with Down's Syndrome. However, Joey is not challenged by Jesus' commandment to love one another. He even draws that love out from everyone he comes in contact with. In this first game of the season, Joey demonstrated that love to his fellow players and to the packed crowd of parents attending the game.

It surprised me, I must admit, to see Joey on the team because of his physical limitations. I remembered Joey. I drove as a substitute driver on a school bus route last year when Joey was a freshman. He always sat in the front seat across from me because it was difficult for him to climb the stairs leading into the bus let alone maneuver down the aisle to find another seat in the rear of the bus.

Joey was such a joy to have on my bus. He always greeted me with a smile and a "Hi, Stewart!" when he got on. I remember how the other students met Joey with "high-fives" when they got on the bus. He brought something special with him when he was riding with us to the point one could feel the difference when he was absent.

Now Joey was on Brandon's basketball team, and not just on it, but was one of the starting five that would begin this first game of the season. In any case, it really pleased me to see Joey on the team. It also made me proud of Jeff for having him on his team. Little did I realize, however, what added joy and excitement was in store for us from Joey's presence on the team.

When the game started I wondered how the other team would react to Joey being on the floor. And I wondered if Brandon's team would include Joey in their play. I shouldn't have worried because the Lord was in control. And, in fact, the game remained pretty close at first, even with Joey having difficulty staying with his man as they ran up and down the court.

Then it happened! Brandon's team was taking the ball down the court when all of a sudden there was Joey, all alone and with no one guarding him. They passed the ball to Joey and he started to dribble the ball slowly toward the basket. Two defenders came up to him, but instead of trying to block him they just stayed in front of him and backed up while he moved forward, as if leading Joey slowly toward the basket. The game seemed to go into slow motion at this point, as if to put brackets around this very special moment. I think everyone was captivated at the scene that was unfolding on the court in front of us. Then all at once Joey took a shot at the basket. He was too far out, I thought. The ball hit the backboard, rolled around the rim of the basket (which seemed like forever) and then dropped in. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause for Joey's accomplishment with most jumping to their feet. And as if to prove this was no fluke, Joey would duplicate that feat one more time before the game ended with a similar response from the crowd.

I don't think anyone cared that Joey's team lost the game. It was just such a joy to experience the warmth of that love that poured forth from that auditorium on that cold winter day in our small town here in Oregon.

I don't think any of us will ever forget that game. There was probably more of Jesus' love displayed during it, not only from Joey who even came over to hug each of his student friends at half time that came to watch the game, but because of the love that was drawn out from the other players along with the rest of us who were there.

We must continue to pray that love overtakes the hatred that plagues our world today. Proverbs 10:12: "Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all sins.”
Thank you, Jesus, for your love and for Joey!

Stewart Whittemore writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. stewart33@earthlink.net

It Looked Easy

By Lynn Ludwick

I’d owned the filing cabinet for many years, a $25 stationery store buy, discounted due to a small dent on the side. Though the cabinet had served me well, its battleship gray was blah. When I saw in a decorating magazine and at a friend’s business the newest trend in office equipment—bare metal—I was intrigued and determined to redo mine. My friend described the process and said that while it took work, it wasn’t hard. Quite doable, she encouraged. I figured a few chemicals, a bit of elbow grease, a couple of afternoons, and voila—a new look.

I lugged the cabinet, whose weight was somewhat akin to an ocean liner’s anchor, to the back patio and dug in. Halfway through the second can of not-so-cheap stripper and well into the fourth day of elbow grease I realized the paint was industrial strength—meant to stay put. Further, clumps of rust were appearing out of nowhere. I applied rust remover, but instead of removing the rust, my efforts seemed to manufacture the brown stuff. And the swirled finish I attempted with the sander created a look far from my imaginings.

I was tempted to toss—well drag and shove—the monster into the nearest river or over the nearest cliff, but reasoned someone would catch me and fine me for littering. Besides, several boxes of temporarily displaced files cluttered my office floor. Quitting was not an option.

So I persevered. My resolve wavered at times, but that hunk of metal wasn’t going to get the best of me. Eventually I finished and it now sits proud and shiny in my office. I’ve chosen to ignore that the chemicals cost more than the cabinet’s original price tag.

Perseverance. My parents encouraged it, calling it stick-to-it-iveness. It’s the virtue captured in “Don’t Quit,” an old poem by the renowned Anonymous: “When things go wrong, as they sometimes will . . .Rest if you must, but don’t you quit…”

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:2-4 Okay, the sufferings Paul spoke of carry far greater import than refinishing a filing cabinet, but God cares about our everyday lives. We have the privilege of practicing godly virtues in the most ordinary circumstances—patience in traffic, kindness with a fellow worker, perseverance in our creative endeavors.

My American College Dictionary defines perseverance: “steady persistence in a course of action…” Tenacity. For one, it’s the bedrock of parenting. What parent hasn’t raised children with the phrase, “If I told you once, I’ve told you a thousand times...” An old friend who rarely writes to me, appreciates that I keep the Christmas newsletters and birthday cards going her way. Thus we stay in touch. For any of us, we only lose pounds as we stick to a regimen of fewer calories, and gain strength by continually showing up at the gym. Habits are formed or broken by steadfastly saying yes or no.

When I look at my filing cabinet these days, I’m glad I toughed it out and gained a thing of beauty, along with a bit of better character. It’s an object-lesson reminder that God wants me to hang in there with faith and diligence in order to reap His virtues—perseverance, hope, goodness, knowledge, self-control, godliness, brotherly kindness, love—the Spirit fruit that Paul and Peter mention.
A few days ago I walked by my little pie safe, the one with flaking blue paint, and contemplated how much better it would look in bare metal. After all, just a bit of stripper, a few hours—it’s much smaller than the filing cabinet. Hmm… When spring arrives, I think I’ll tote it out back and apply a healthy helping of perseverance and thus add to my character.

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge self-control; and to self-control perseverance; and to perseverance godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindn