Slow Down

Often times in life's journey, we must slow down from our normal fast pace. There are times when it seems that we're not progressing at all. We have difficulty comprehending certain classroom courses or solving some complex life decision.

There is nothing wrong with slow, cautious travel as long as we are still approaching our goals. Never give up and totally stop.

"Everything comes to him who waits, if he works while he waits."

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


"'I called Him, but He gave me no answer' Canticles 5:6 [Song of Soloman]

Prayer sometimes tarrieth, like a petitioner at the gate, until the King comes forth to fill her bosom with the blessings which she seeketh. The Lord, when He hath given great faith, has been known to try it by long delayings. He has suffered his servants' voices to echo in their ears as from a brazen sky. They have knocked at the golden gate, but it has remained immovable, as though it were rusted upon its hinges. Like Jeremiah, they have cried, 'Thou has covered Thyself with a cloud, that our prayer should not pass through.' Thus have true saints continued long in patient waiting without reply, not because their prayers were not vehement, nor because they were unaccepted, but because it so pleased Him who is a Sovereign, and who gives according to His own pleasure. If it pleases Him to bid our patience exercise itself, shall He not do as He wills with His own! Beggars must not be choosers either as to time, place, or form. But we must be careful not to take delays in prayer for denials: God's long-dated bills will be punctually honoured; we must not suffer Satan to shake our confidence in the God of truth by pointing to our unanswered prayers. Unanswered petitions are not unheard. God keeps a file for our prayers-they are not blown away by the wind, they are treasured in the King's archives. There is a registry in the court of heaven wherein every prayer is recorded. Tried believer, thy Lord hath a tear-bottle in which the costly drops of sacred grief are put away, and a book in which the holy groanings are numbered. By-and-by, thy suit shall prevail. Canst thou not be content to wait a little? Will not thy Lord's time be better than thy time? By-and-by He will comfortably appear, to thy soul's joy, and make thee put away the sackcloth and ashes of long waiting, and put on the scarlet and fine linen of full fruition."
Spurgeon's "Morning and Evening" March 29

Relationships

During life's journey, we have relationships with many people. Some develop into close companionships, while others remain only casual. Since we are continually dealing with other individuals, there are times when the travel is rough and bumpy. There will always be differences of opinions, viewpoints and ideas. Not everyone will totally be in agreement at all times. What should we do? Our initial thought is to belittle the other person's opinion or get upset because they disagree with us. That doesn't help much.

* Remember that everyone is entitled to his/her own opinion (good or bad, right or wrong).
* Don't get into arguments that could affect our long term relationship.
* Take the attitude of agreeing to disagree.
* Don't hold hard feelings.
* Be willing to let the other individual express their own thoughts and you go on with life.
* Don't worry about it.
* Enjoy life's relationships.

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


"In matters of principle, stand like a rock; in matters of taste, swim with the current." ~Thomas Jefferson

In this postmodern world where truth is believed to be subjective, we must stand out (notice I said "stand out") for what is Truth. It is Truth that there is a God who expects complete righteousness to enter into Heaven. It is Truth that we are fallen men and cannot enter into Heaven on our own merit (no matter how "good" a life we think we live). It is Truth that Christ became man, lived a completely sinless life as a man, died a sacrificial death on the cross to be the perfect atonement for the sins of man, and beat death by raising from the grave. It is Truth that this passes all knowledge. It is Truth that we can only be saved from our sins and enter into an eternal relationship with Christ by believing on these Truths. It is Truth that you can only believe on these Truths if the Holy Spirit opens your eyes to see and your ears to hear. Do you know the truth?

"Jesus therefore said to those Jews that had believed him, If ye abide in my word, then are ye truly my disciples; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:31-32)

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)

"that we may be no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, in craftiness, after the wiles of error; but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, even Christ;" (Eph 4:14-15)

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Phi 4:8)

Finally, when discussing the truth with others, know that if they are blind, they are no different from the postmodernist who believes that truth is subjective. Don't beat one over the head with it, but as Paul says, speak the truth in love and leave it to the Spirit to do the work. Be a beacon of light in the world. When others see you, is there something different about you? We know that actions speak louder than words. If you live a life worthy of your calling, there will be nothing that you have to prove.

How Great Thou Art

Whether you like her or not, you have to agree that it is a job well done. When I heard it, I had to share.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhvaDJTUmrU

Use It or Lose It

Each of us has abilities and skills that cannot be accomplished by others.

Use what God has given you. The old saying is true:

"Use it or lose it."

Value your time and abilities! Don't lose them.

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


The good Lord has blessed me with the desire (and I hope ability) to write. I recall in middle school having a "career fair" where we could select three careers about which we wanted to learn. One of my choices was "author." (Coincidentally, I don't remember what the other careers were that I chose.) The Lord has provided this opportunity to share my father's life lessons with you and I take it as an honor that I am so blessed to have such a father. I take it as a chance to share Christ to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ," for the furtherance of His kingdom. And as an opportunity for me to grow and learn to be a better Christian, wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. Needless to say, it is quite a job that I have taken on (not negatively); I am already amazed, humbled and overwhelmed at the response that I have received from you and how it is being used in your lives. If at any time, you wish to discuss or share anything about what I have posted, please feel free to comment. I can only praise God for His abundant mercies!

"Thus saith Jehovah, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he hath understanding, and knoweth me, that I am Jehovah who exerciseth lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith Jehovah." (Jer 9:23-24)

It's All in How You Look at It

Things turn out the best for the people who make the best out of the way things turn out!


Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


'In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit' Luke 10:21

The Saviour was 'a man of sorrows' but every thoughtful mind has discovered the fact that down deep in His innermost soul He carried an inexhaustible treasury of refined and heavenly joy. Of all the human race, there was never a man who had a deeper, purer, or more abiding peace than our Lord Jesus Christ. 'He was anointed with the oil of gladness above His fellows.' His vast benevolence must, from the very nature of things, have afforded Him the deepest possible delight, for benevolence is joy. There were a few remarkable seasons when this joy manifested itself. 'At that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth.' Christ had His songs, though it was night with Him; though His face was marred, and His countenance had lost the lustre of earthly happiness, yet sometimes it was lit up with a matchless splendour of unparalleled satisfaction, as He thought upon the recompense of the reward, and in the midst of the congregation sang His praise unto God. In this, the Lord Jesus is a blessed picture of His church on earth. At this hour the church expects to walk in sympathy with her Lord along a thorny road; through much tribulation she is forcing her way to the crown. To bear the cross is her office, and to be scorned and counted an alien by her mother's children is her lot; and yet the church has a deep well of joy, of which none can drink but her own children. There are stores of wine, and oil, and corn, hidden in the midst of our Jerusalem, upon which the saints of God are evermore sustained and nurtured; and sometimes, as in our Saviour's case, we have our seasons of intense delight, for 'There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of our God.' Exiles though we be, we rejoice in our King; yea, in Him we exceedingly rejoice, while in His name we set up our banners.
~from C.H. Spurgeon's "Morning and Evening" March 24

Apply Yourself

Hope that you had an enjoyable weekend.

Doesn't it seem that the clock slows down Monday through Friday and speeds up right after school on Friday throughout the entire weekend?

Hope that you have a great week. Much success is waiting if you apply yourself!

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


Regarding the book of Ruth:
"Manythings besides may be learnt from this little book, as the different circumstances of good people in this life, and the particular providence of God respecting them. It furnishes out examples of bearing afflictions patiently, of industry, courteousness, kindness to strangers, and young converts; and none can doubt of the divine authority of this book, that considers the use made of it in the genealogies of Christ..." from John Gill (1697-1771)

"Naomi and Ruth came to Bethlehem in the beginning of the barley harvest season. It was the custom to allow poor people and those without support to follow the reapers in the field and pick up what they had left. Ruth went out to glean in the fields; and by God's providence she gleaned in the field of Boaz, Naomi's near kinsman (2:1). Boaz took notice of Ruth, had compassion on her, instructed her to glean in his field, and told the reapers to let fall some 'handfuls of purpose' (2:16) for her. This world belongs to the Lord Jesus. It is his by design, by decree, and by death (Col. 1:16-17; John 3:35; Rom. 14:9; John 17:2). We live and glean in his field. The Lord Jesus in grace and love has taken notice of some of Adam's race. He knew us though we knew him not; He loved us though we did not love him; and by his handfuls of purpose, we have lived and prospered to this day. God takes care of his own even in their days of unbelief... Read in Ruth 3:1-7 how Ruth humbled herself at the feet of Boaz, seeking his mercy, as we lie at the feet of Christ, for he owes us nothing. Read in Ruth 3:10-11 how Boaz accepts her whom he already loved, even as we are accepted in the Beloved upon evidence of humility and faith. Read how Boaz married Ruth and all of his wealth and name became hers, even as we are married to Christ and are joint-heirs with him because we are his and wear his name. The pagan girl became the wife of Boaz, the great-grandmother of King David, and stood in the lineage of Christ - all of grace!" an excerpt from "The Works of Henry Mahan, Volume 1." Henry Mahan, 2007.

My Dear Grace

Today you celebrate your first birthday; therefore, I want to express my best wishes, thoughts and love to you. Oh what joy you have brought me during this one year and I trust for many additional years to come.

How ironic that you were born on the first day of spring; the day when we normally think that the weather will be fair and growth will be seen. During the winter, there is great bareness and unfruitfulness, yet when spring comes, attitudes improve, excitement fills the air, light breaks and hearts are melted with a sense of love. That is what I think when I see you and your infectious smile and cheerful appearance.

Song of Solomon 2:11-13 "For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth, the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; the fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell."

Years ago, parents would name their children either in regard to or love for family members or friends and/or particular circumstances and situations. Every time that the parent would address the child, they would be reminded of the person/reason of that name. Today, however, names are given more because of the "sound" of it, frivolous and meaningless reasons. When I think of you, I am inclined to think that your parents did a great deal of consideration when they gave you your name. What a reminder and blessing when your name is mentioned because of what it reflects! Grace: God's riches at Christ's expense; unmerited and undeserved favor. How truly good is God's grace! I believe that your parents gave you this name because of what God has done to and for them. It is my burden and prayer that in due time, He might likewise show His grace upon you. May you be brought to the knowledge of your need of Christ and may the spirit of God reveal Jesus to you. Then, and only then, can you understand the true meaning of your name, Grace.

It is my understanding that you were also given your middle name, Carey, from your Grandmother Augustine's side of the family. You are a descendant of a great missionary of the middle 1700s. William Carey was born in 1761, and at the age of 32, went to India as a missionary. For 41 years he labored there, without any fanfare, support and little notice. There was very little response to his message and ministry. Yet he continued on in spite of difficulties and sorrow. He was so determined to go regardless of the cost! Initially, his wife refused to go along, but finally consented to be with him; therefore, she and their one child left England for India. She gave birth to a daughter shortly after the departure, this following the loss of two other baby girls. It wasn't too long after arrival in India that Mrs. Carey died, but he remained faithful to his calling.

Before his departure from England, he was an apprentice shoemaker but spent much time studying and self taught himself several languages. He read much from the Puritan writers and became deeply concerned with the propagating of the gospel message throughout the world. The amazing characteristics of William Carey were his conviction of the need of others, faithfulness to a cause, and desire to benefit others. He lived for the glory of God and assistance towards those that he met. Before he died, he made it a point to convey, "say nothing of Dr. Carey when I am gone but speak about Dr. Carey's God." I am hopeful that you, like him, will be enabled to have the same spirit, attitude and determination.

May you have the same longing, like your sister, to learn and study. May you have her determination and competitive spirit. While at the same time, I hope that you have the compassion and affection of your brother. There will be many similarities and comparisons between you and your siblings but remain yourself and truly be full of "grace."

To my "spring day" girl and "amazing" grace, my love and prayer!

Love,
Popaw

Sign of the Times

City and state officials will change the names of roads from time to time.

We're living in a society today that is constantly changing names of activities to eliminate the thought of sin and wrong doing.


- Instead of murdering innocent babies, we call it a woman's choice.

- Instead of adultery, we call it an affair.

- Instead of homosexuality and sodomy, we call it an alternative lifestyle.

- Instead of robbery, we call it personal freedom to make up what we're lacking.

- Instead of laziness, we call it welfare and/or unemployment.


Be careful not to get caught up in the deceptive practices of Satan.


Have a good day!
Love,
Dad

Wise Companions

On highways, we are constantly aware of merging traffic --people getting on the main road. Sometimes we are the one merging into traffic; and at times, we let others come into our line of travel.

Life has its merging of relationships. People are continually entering into our lives -- some good, others not so good.

Be careful but open minded. Travel on defensively.

Remember:
"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed." (Prov 13:20)

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad

Strive for Betterment

There is something to be said about increasing the speed limit on freeways; one will get to their destination quicker [In 1992, Kentucky interstate speed limits were increased from 55 to 65]. When we travel, I know that you get restless with my slow driving.

In life we should have a spirit of restlessness; have the ability from becoming complacent with our achievements.

We should always strive to advance. Never stop from doing what we should become.

Strive for betterment!

Have a good day!
Love,
Dad


"Property is the fruit of labor...property is desirable...is a positive good in the world. That some should be rich shows that others may become rich, and hence is just encouragement to industry and enterprise. Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another; but let him labor diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built."
The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln edited by Roy P. Basler, Volume VII, "Reply to New York Workingmen's Democratic Republican Association" (March 21, 1864), pp. 259-260.

"It is only through labor and painful effort, by grim energy and resolute courage, that we move on to better things." Theodore Roosevelt