One of the Best

Another year will soon be over. As I review it in my mind's eye, I see that it hasn't been without golden moments. Some of these didn't appear to be so at first, but now I know better. They seemed to be very bitter, and pointless; but it was these that brought about changes that perhaps never would have occurred otherwise. *Maria's* death helped me better understand the frailty of this life, and the hope of another. My ever-present physical discomfort and other hard trials, I learned, are a chance to prove GOD's power to let me weather tribulation well. Even more, all these things brought me closer to Him as I searched my own life for things that could be standing between me and heaven, me and the answer to prayer. Although I probably didn't allow them to work all the changes they could have, they have not been in vain. I've gained a drop or two more of personal experience in my walk with the LORD, and for that I am grateful.

Not only has this year brought spiritual improvement, but also physical, mental, and social improvement. I'm not the ablest person, but visits to the chiropractor have been paying off, slowly but surely. Along with many other things, I can lift both my legs myself now when going up stairs, and stand a little easier too. I have made headway in being more independent--including getting my slippers on, and after discovering that the sink wasn't so hard to stand at as before, doing the dishes again after a two-year hiatus. I've made leaps and bounds in terms of my education, even though I still have a long ways to go due to being so slack the past few years. Friends have come, and some have gone--but not without teaching me a thing or two!

Yet for all this, I know I didn't make the most of this year. There have been failures as well as successes. I failed to learn lessons the important lessons of self-control sooner. I've failed to use my time and talents as wisely as possible, every day and all day. I've failed to always be kind, patient, unselfish--in short, to always be Christ-like. I've failed to know Him as well as I should, and failed to fit myself as much as I could for the home He is preparing for me. When I look at all that loss, I am tempted to feel that I have no gains.

Thankfully that isn't the case with me, and I'm sure it isn't with you either. While we are to rejoice in this, however, we are to remember that we can't eclipse the fact that in some way or another, we missed reaching the mark. What can we do? Not change it, no. It is too late for that. We can ask God's forgiveness for our shortcomings, and take hold of His strength to make this coming year one of the best of our lives. Rest assured, He will give it to you, to me, if we simply ask and believe. He longs for us to reach a higher standard far more than we do, so He will do all He can to help us to reach it--if we are willing to be helped, willing to follow His directions. He says to us as surely as He did to the Israelites of old, "Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. ...And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:" (Isaiah 1:16-18, 25). "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." (Isaiah 41:10).

 

I aim to take hold of these promises and let this year be one of the best I've ever had. I hope you do too.

 

Blessings,

Jean

 

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Will You Cease to be a Sir Arthur?

Sir Arthur

Four days ago, we welcomed a new dog into the family. Sir Arthur was the name we had chosen for this fat, able-bodied tri-color corgi that was supposedly good with other dogs. He was coming from Kansas and being dropped off in Portland, ME. Since the drive to Scarborough is somewhat lengthy, only Dad went to pick him up. When they returned, Friday was on the stairs in the garage. By nature, Friday is a very gentle, submissive dog. It's true that he and Lacey didn't always get along, but for the most part they were friends. Things became serious only in the last few months of Lacey's life--which is understandable because sick dogs tend to turn aggressive. Anyway, when Arthur got out of the car, there was growling and then a nasty dog fight. Friday received the worst of it with a big wound on his ear. Sir Arthur only ended up with a little nick on his face.
 

That wasn't the end of the trouble. During the fight, Zelda and I remained in the house. Our cat Kitty was curled up on a kitchen chair. When Arthur came in, he was on his leash and standing by the rubbish barrel, not even near Kitty. Well, when she saw him she literally went crazy. She started running and climbing everywhere, even up the cabinets and the windows! In the end, she tore down the hallway so fast that the phrase "at the speed of light" seems too inadequate. She has never acted that way towards any animal.

Friday

Over the past few days, Friday and he have been growling at each other. We finally put Sir Arthur in a crate for the safety of everyone. What's more, Friday is not a very vocal dog, but he has been whining and panting more than ever before. When Dad goes to take Sir Arthur out, Friday will not only whine, but also put his head back and howl pitifully, like a wolf. When Lacey was alive and Dad took just her out, he would cry out of jealousy--or so it seemed--but never in the way that he has been doing.

Kitty

Two days ago Mom decided to let Sir Arthur out of the crate while Friday was in and Dad wasn't home. Things didn't go well. Oh, he didn't bother Friday. He saw Kitty and went over to her. He just stood there looking. Kitty was afraid and began to arch her back. I believe she hissed once when he lunged at her. It was so quick and so noisy that I scarcely knew what happened, but next thing I know my mom and sister are over there yelling. Zelda is protecting Kitty's head while Mom is banging Arthur's snout, trying to get him to realize his grip on Kitty's tail. Friday came over and started attacking Kitty too--which is unusual. They are the best of friends--or they were. In the end, Mom did manage to get Arthur off, but in all the ruckus, Kitty was using my sister's hand to bite on. No fingers were broken, but it looks horrible. Her other arm and even her stomach all have scratches as well.

Fluffy

The only animal that has remained unscathed is old, ornery Fluffy. She stays in the bedroom most of the time. The other day, however, after we had moved Arthur to the bookroom so he wouldn't have to stay in the cage, Fluffy ventured out. Now the bookroom is right next to the bedroom, and when Fluffy reached the bookroom entrance (which was barred because the crate was in front of it), she stopped. Turning around very slowly, she slunk back to the bedroom entrance, and then bolted in. Fluffy normally bolts right away, so even her behavior is very odd.

It may not surprise you that most of us here want to send Sir Arthur back to the organization we got him from (which you must do if you are not happy with the dog). He is a lovely dog when it comes to people (though he was eyeing my sister when she was bathing him, so who really knows?) and he loves to play ball; but he isn't good with other animals, and he has been causing a lot of stress between them and the members of the family.

Sir Arthur is a fine example of the truth that "none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself" (Romans 14:7). Everything has an influence; everything is either a savour of life unto life, or a savour of death unto death (2 Corinthians 2:16). If Arthur, who is but a dog, wields such a powerful influence, how much more do we?

"GOD has invested man with an influence that makes it impossible for him to live to himself. ...Every soul is surrounded by an atmosphere of its own—an atmosphere, it may be, charged with the life-giving power of faith, courage, and hope, and sweet with the fragrance of love. Or it may be heavy and chill with the gloom of discontent and selfishness, or poisonous with the deadly taint of cherished sin. By the atmosphere surrounding us, every person with whom we come in contact is consciously or unconsciously affected. This is a responsibility from which we cannot free ourselves. Our words, our acts, our dress, our deportment, even the expression of the countenance, has an influence. Upon the impression thus made there hang results for good or evil which no man can measure. Every impulse thus imparted is seed sown which will produce its harvest.  It is a link in the long chain of human events, extending we know not whither. If by our example we aid others in the development of good principles, we give them power to do good. In their turn they exert the same influence upon others, and they upon still others. Thus by our unconscious influence thousands may be blessed." Ellen White, Christ's Object Lessons, pg. 339.

All of us, then, exert an influence on each other, and all of us have exerted an influence for evil in one way or another, probably to a greater and worse extent than Sir Arthur. No, most of us haven't bitten people's ears or anything like that, but we have inflicted emotional wounds that are just as painful, if not more. In that way, we are all a lot like him. While that isn't a very bright picture, and while we can't cease to impact others, there is good news. GOD is willing to forgive us for and cleanse us from everything that would stop us from exerting an influence for good (1 John 1:9). Then we will be wonderful blessings to the world. The only one who can stop this wonderful change from happening is each of us. The choice is ours. Will you cease to be a Sir Arthur?

Blessings,

Jean

"Thou in Faithfulness"

Recently I read about a man named Patrocinio Martinez, a native of New Mexico. He wasn't converted until later in life, but the Lord was watching over him until beginning to end.

During the winter of 1902, a fever swept through the Martinez home. Pat's wife, Rosaura, cared the best she could for her five children, but death came even so. The two oldest boys, Isidro and Basilio, fell first, followed by their daughter Carmelita. Pat was heartbroken, but said, "I praise God yet, friends." Rosaura was distressed, and added to her grief was the burden of carrying another child; but she continued to tend to her loved ones. Sadly, death wasn't finished with this family yet, and dealt an especially cruel blow. The favorite, baby Manuel, was the next to be stricken with the fever, and he didn't make it. Losing her "little Spaniard" was too much for Rosaura. She suffered a mental breakdown, sobbing constantly and refusing to eat or care for Soledad, the only remaining child. Patrocinio sought in vain to help her. His wife would listen to no one.

Pat was in a quandary. How could he go off and support his family when Rosaura was in such a state? The doctor was quite a ways away, and there was no guarantee that he could offer assistance anyway. Pat had been raised in the Catholic faith, but he nevertheless felt that God was more approachable than the church made Him out to be. One night while lying in bed with the sound of his wife's crying in his ear, he talked to God in his mind, telling his Maker all about the situation. Eventually he fell asleep, emotionally spent.

That night Pat had a dream that he was in an unfamiliar forest. There was a road in this forest, and he decided to follow it. He came upon a shocking sight. There, in broad daylight, was a young man hanging on a scaffold. Disturbed as he was, Pat looked closely at him; was it someone he knew? No, he concluded, the man didn't look familiar. Maybe if he kept walking he would meet someone that could explain the strange sight to him. He didn't have to wait long. He soon met a man that he sensed was somehow important, that knew something about all of this.

After explaining what he had seen, the stranger looked at him tenderly. "You mean to tell me that you did not recognize the man on the scaffold?"

"No. Why should I?"

The man led him back to the spot, and beckoned him to look again. Pat obeyed, and was horrified to see that it was his son Manuel!

The stranger went on to explain to Pat that that was the kind of person his beautiful baby would have been had he lived. The family, he said, was spared greater sorrow by the baby's death. Furthermore, Pat was to tell Rosaura to stop crying and to start thinking of the child that was to be born. This child would be a blessing to the world, and should be given a godly name. "Look forward to the future and the family you will have," the man admonished. "Do not weep for the past."

With that, Patrocinio awoke to find himself still in bed with his sorrowful wife. He leaped out, and exclaimed, "My dear wife, I have just learned something, and you must listen to me!" Taking her by the shoulder, he got her attention and related the dream.

As he spoke, Rosaura's weeping subsided. When he finished, she was completely silent. "It is the truth of God," she finally said. "Now I understand, and I must obey!" And she did. The next day she was up and about again. As much as she didn't want to, she ate, and held back the tears that wanted to spill over. Their son was eventually born, and they called him Jose, meaning "God shall add." God did add many more children to their family, and Jose, after many long, dark years, became a Bible and literature evangelist--truly bringing good to the world.

Whatever our grief, whatever our trial, may this serve as a reminder that, "Whether good or ill befall, it must be good for me." We may not understand how that can be now, but we may trust that it is so, and say with the psalmist, "I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that Thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me." (Psalm 119:75).

Blessings,
Jean

His Eye Was Single

In Matthew 6:22, Jesus said, "The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light." As far as the followers of Jesus go, one of the most shining examples of someone who sought to live this principle to the full is Jonathan Edwards. Edwards was born in the 18th century, and is best known as one of the chief figures of the Great Awakening, as well as the author of the famous sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry GOD".

What has been often overlooked by many of us—except perhaps those who take to write a biography of him—is that Edwards was a driven man, with only one ambition: to live for GOD's glory. Every other aspiration was subordinate to this aim, and every aspect of his life was subject to it. Jonathan Edwards' Resolutions testify to this.

For example, number 28 shows that he understood that studying the Bible every day was an absolute necessity when it came to having a healthy spiritual life. " Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same." Number 29 shows that he knew the importance of prayer: " Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept." The following resolution, number 30, clearly shows that he sought to attain to greater heights in his relationship with GOD. "Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before."

Edwards wasn't just concerned with religion in terms of a life of mere devotional thought and exercise. He determined to bring the Bible into his everyday life. This included the wise management of his time. "Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can."[1] Even appetite did not escape his scrutiny, as is evidenced by the 20th resolution: Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance in eating and drinking."

Naturally, these encompassed not only Edwards' conduct towards himself, but towards others. Three of the seventy resolutions deal with the way he ought to speak to people[2], number 46 specifically addresses his attitude in regards to the members of his family— particularly his mother and father[3], and two others pertain to issues that relate to his fellowmen, albeit indirectly.[4]

Someone once said, "Bible religion is not one influence among many others; its influence is to be supreme, pervading and controlling every other. It is not to be like a dash of color brushed here and there upon the canvas, but it is to pervade the whole life, as if the canvas were dipped into the color, until every thread of the fabric were dyed a deep, unfading hue."[5] We have no doubt seen that this is certainly true of Edwards. His religion influenced his life through and through. You truly cannot know anything about Jonathan Edwards without knowing of the other. Indeed, the two are so thoroughly intertwined that it is well nigh impossible to separate the man from his beliefs. In other words, they were one. His eye was single.

While he did not have all the light that we do today, Jonathan Edwards was a faithful steward of the truth which he did have, and I believe that he will rise again when Jesus returns. I believe that GOD allowed this man to live not only to bless those in his day, but also to be a blessing to us through the example that he left behind. I know that this has been the case with me, and it has made me want to more fully consecrate myself to the service of the Saviour. May we all seek, as he did, to let our eye be single to the glory of GOD.

Blessings,
Jean

---

[1] Number 5

[2] Numbers 16, 31, and 36.

[3] Number 46

[4] Numbers 14 and 58

[5] White, Ellen. The Desire of Ages, pg. 312

It's What We Do Today

William Briconnet, Bishop of Meaux, was sent to Rome as the representative for Francis I, king of France. While there were many cathedrals, religious processions, and prayers, there was also much luxury, irreverence, and violence. On his return to France, the bishop pondered what he had seen, and found that he was dissatisfied with what the Church had to offer his soul. Professor and Bible translator Jacques Lefevre was a long-time friend of Briconnet's, and it was to him that the bishop expressed his desire for something more. His friend presented him with a Bible, and as he read he cried, "The more I read, the more I long to fill my soul with its inexhaustible sweetness!" The Scriptures wrought change in the Bishop of Meaux. He rebuked the clergy who squandered money on evil pastimes, and he banned the monks from telling coarse jokes as an excuse to take up an offering. Briconnet also visited all the congregations in the area and inquired whether the priests were faithful. If the answer was no, they were replaced with someone who was. It was not easy to find such men, so he established a seminary to train pastors. At the same time, the bishop was not above preaching in the pulpit himself!

Neither did the royalty of France escape the influence of his conversion. Francis I and his sister Margaret were his friends, and he sought to share the joy he had discovered with them. As he heard the bishop speak, the king was aware of something of what the gospel could do for his countrymen; but for whatever reason, he cast his lot on the side of Rome in the end. Margaret, however, found Jesus to be the Friend she had searched for, the One who could dispel the heaviness in her heart.

Afterwards, Briconnet continued to labor to bring others to the Saviour, and as Lefevre and others joined him in Meaux, the place became renowned throughout the country for its spirituality. If one was inclined to Protestantism, it was said that he had "drunk at the well of Meaux." Sooner or later, persecution began, as always happens when the Bible gains a strong foothold. Then the bishop was faced with an ultimatum: either recant or burn at the stake. Sadly, he chose the former, and never looked back.

The bishop wasn't the only one to fall. Another was Pavane, a gentle youth who possessed great love for GOD, and who worked to help his friends find Him. "The virgin Mary can no more save you than I can.There is but one Saviour, Jesus Christ," he explained to them. It was this statement that led to his arrest. He was commanded to publicly renounce his statement, and if he refused, he was to suffer the same fate that Briconnet would have.

Like the bishop, Pavane shrank from being a martyr, and agreed to their demand. Christmas Eve, 1524, found the lad walking barefooted and bareheaded through the streets, with a rope around his neck and a candle in his hand, to the cathedral of Notre Dame. Once there, he asked forgiveness of Mary for having spoken against her. Afterwards, Pavane was brought back to his dungeon; but he was now in a darker place than that cell. He couldn't remember the comforting Scriptures he had read, and he couldn't alleviate the tremendous trouble that now afflicted his soul.

In contrast to Briconnet, the youth decided, "I would rather go a hundred times to the stake, than to drink this bitter cup!" With tears, he confessed his sin to GOD, and resolved to forsake it. Stake or no stake, he would be faithful to his Saviour. His end came quickly, but he faced it courageously, happy that nothing could take him from Jesus now. It appears that Pavane was able to witness for Him before the flames extinguished his life, for a doctor from the Sorbonne later commented to his associates that "It would have been better for the Church to pay millions in gold than to allow that young man to speak."

We are not to be concerned in regards to having the strength to be a martyr unless we are in that situation. GOD only gives us enough grace for the day (2 Corinthians 12:9). However, we need to realize that it is what we do each day that determines what we will do in the future. Our Saviour bid us "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak" (Matthew 26:41). Somewhere along the way, the bishop and the boy were lax in this matter, and so paved the way for their denials. If we too fail to always follow this command, we begin to walk the road that will, in the end, lead us to follow the sad examples of the men we read about--and we may not be able to escape as Pavane did. After all, it's what we do today that determines what we will do tomorrow.

Blessings,
Jean

Note: See J.A. Wylie's The History of Protestantism for the accounts of these men.

 

Letters and Liberality

*Lily* knew *Ryan* went to her church occasionally, but aside from that, she knew little else except that he was younger than she was. She decided to get to know him, and wrote him a letter. She didn't receive a reply, but that was because Ryan's mother said he had lost the envelope.

"All right," Lily said with a smile. "I'll write him another one!" She started to, but never finished it. Weeks went by, then months, and finally a year. Lily felt terrible, especially because of what she had said she would do. She purposed to begin her endeavor anew, and wrote to Ryan apologizing for not sending him another one sooner. Lily then decided to write him a letter every month. No letters came to her for quite some time, but she was cheered by the thought that maybe she was adding a bit of happiness to someone's day. Then, after seven months of doing this, a letter from Ryan arrived! It wasn't that long ago that this took place. I am happy to report that since then, he and Lily have been communicating quite regularly.

Paul says in 2 Thessalonians 3:13: "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing." Why could he say that? The apostle knew from personal experience that fruit from such labors did not always always come speedily, and some might be tempted to give into discouragement. If your efforts to be friendly, to do good to someone, seem futile, don't stop! Someday you'll see that it wasn't in vain. Perhaps it won't be in the same way that Lily saw with Ryan, but you will see it--if not here, then in eternity. That is certain. Besides, you will find that there is joy in giving, even if it isn't acknowledged.

Even if nothing were to come of it with others--though that is impossible--, it won't have been in vain for you. All along the way, you will have cooperated with the Master as He sought to teach you the lessons of unselfish love and labor, and thus reaped many a blessing in terms of character-building. As it says in Proverbs 11:24: "The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself." Paul affirmed this when speaking to the church about giving funds to spread the gospel. He wrote, "But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6). Are these words true, not only concerning money, but also love and kindness? I think so. If we work with Jesus to uplift those around us, He will be the more able to uplift us; but if we do nothing for our fellow men, or if we give up because it seems too hard, how can He help us? Not only will those around us suffer because of our selfish stinginess in that case, but so will we. Our characters will become so narrow because we won't think of anyone but ourselves that Christ will have no room to work with us--and we know what that results in!

Let us be liberal, then, not caring whether the visible returns are great or small. There is too much else at stake for us to do otherwise.

Blessings,
Jean






 

The Furry Four is No More

Yes, the Furry Four. Four because we recently acquired another cat, named Fluffy (who, by the way, isn't fluffy) to go along with Lacey, Friday, and Kitty. In one of my previous posts, I mentioned the dogs, Lacey and Friday. I didn't mention then that Lacey was disabled. We rescued her nearly six years ago. Prior to us getting her, she had been hit by a car. Her former owners used her as a breeder, and after the accident apparently decided she was of no use to them. They neglected to get her necessary medical treatment, and consequently she ended up with a spinal compression. This made it so she couldn't hold her waste in, and she had to wear a diaper. My father found her online while looking for a dog to replace Brandy, a corgi we had recently put down.

Well, Lacey was also a corgi, and my dad fell in love with her. At the time, we lived in Massachusetts, and she was in Delaware, but that didn't matter to him; he drove all the way down there to get her and back. While it was a new and difficult experience caring for her at first, we grew to love her. Two years later, we rescued Friday. In hindsight, that was a mistake. There was a change in Lacey. She became more protective of her food (previously she would leave it all day, and only eat at night), and more nervous. Even so, the change didn't seem to be that serious, and we continued on as normal. Over the next few years, we had hamsters and cats. With each new animal, she became more and more nervous, but we thought it was more or less all right, because by the time it was just Friday, Lacey, and Kitty, they had all come to an understanding of sorts, and they all loved each other in their own way, even though they annoyed one another. Lacey and Fluffy weren't well acquainted (mostly Fluffy's choice). Recently, however, she had tried to attack Friday and Kitty.

Along with her declining emotional state, there was her declining physical state. Lacey struggled to move around these past few months, often falling when trying to stand up or walk. She was resting more and more, with only spurts of energy here and there.

The looming threat of her harming someone or something, and her obvious physical discomfort, are what made us decide to put her down today. Mom and Dad went with her, while Z. and I stayed here. Apparently it didn't take long at all, and she was happy all the way through.

What made me sad more than her being gone--I know it was the best thing--is the fact that she was even disabled and had to die. Nothing was ever meant to suffer or to die. GOD never meant for us to know that. I don't know if I will see her again; the Bible neither affirms nor negates pets being in heaven, but even so, the whole tragedy made me long for that day "when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory" (1 Corinthians 15:54). How about you?

Blessings,
Jean

Klaus and Michael: A Story of Persevering in Prayer

Klaus-Dieter John and Michael were best friends, and both Christians. Michael hadn't always been, but he had happily given his heart to the Saviour after attending church with Klaus. At the advice of Klaus' father,  Michael had begun reading his Bible regularly afterwards. Unfortunately, Michael's hot-tempered mother found out, and forbade him to associate with Klaus at all. It didn't help that the Johns were not members of the state churches, but rather a Baptist minority. Michael's mother was convinced that her son would return to "normal" if only he stayed away from Klaus and his family. Michael sadly related his mother's decision to his friend as they walked home from school one afternoon.

Naturally, this disheartened Klaus, but  he didn't sink into despondency over it. Instead, upon reaching home, he went into his room and closed the door. Grabbing his Bible, he read its interpretation of Luke 18:1-8. The KJV renders it this way:

"And He spake a parable unto them [to this end,] that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not GOD, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not GOD, nor regard man; Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not GOD avenge His own elect, which cry day and night unto Him, though He bear long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?"

After reading, Klaus kneeled down and prayed, telling GOD that this passage said that He heard people's prayers, and that he was asking GOD to change Michael's mother's mind so that he and Michael could hang out together like before.

 For two days, there seemed to be no change. Michael now took a different way home so as to avoid him, and Klaus didn't see him anymore, but that didn't deter Klaus; whenever he thought of it, he would pray and remind GOD of what He had said. On the third day, Michael was running to meet up with Klaus. All smiles, he said that his mother had told him to never mind about what she had said--he and Klaus could be friends once more!

Klaus was overjoyed, and as I read this account*, so was I. GOD does answer prayer, so long as we have persistence and faith. It should be noted that we can only gain these by waiting, and that is why, though GOD is more willing to answer us than the judge was the widow, He does not do so instantly. It is for our own good that we must do this.  And so, no matter how dark things look, don't give up! It may take three days, three weeks, three months, even three years, but if we keep on trusting and following Him, Jesus will answer our prayers in the best way possible--and in the meantime, we will receive the additional blessing of character refinement!

Blessings,
Jean

*Read it for yourself in Klaus-Dieter John: Hope in the Land of the Incas by Janet and Geoff Benge.







  

Prideful Pilate

Pilate was not only pliable, but also prideful. That pride was in part what kept him from discovering for certain the answer to his age-old question, "What is truth?" (John 18:38).

When Pilate questioned Jesus as to whether He was a king, Jesus asked him: "Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of Me?" (v. 34).

"The Spirit of God was striving with Pilate. The question of Jesus was intended to lead him to examine his own heart more closely. Pilate understood the meaning of the question. His own heart was opened before him, and he saw that his soul was stirred by conviction. But pride arose in his heart, and he answered: 'Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered Thee unto me: what hast Thou done?' Pilate’s golden opportunity had passed." The Story of Jesus, pg. 126.

That wasn't the only opportunity. After Pilate's inquiry, the Saviour went on to explain the nature of His kingdom, which made the governor again ask if he were a king. "Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth My voice" (v. 37).

"Pilate had a desire to know the truth. His mind was confused. He eagerly grasped the words of the Saviour, and his heart was stirred with a great longing to know what the truth really was, and how he could obtain it. He asked Jesus: 'What is truth?'" Ibid., pg. 126.

The Bible tells us that after he asked Jesus, Pilate returned to the scene of tumult. He never knew what Jesus would have said. If he hadn't resisted the first time, he would have known the answer. Thankfully, we can know it. In the previous chapter, verse 17, He said, "Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth."

And yet, how many of us refuse the answer, even though it's right in front of us, for the very same reason Pilate missed his golden opportunity? How many of us refuse that which could give us life because it doesn't flatter us, because it doesn't mesh with our plans? All of us have been there at some point, to some degree; there's no denying it. Some, however, have admitted that this is indeed the truth, and submitted to it--though it hurts, in more ways than one. The result? They have found it to be their "shield and buckler", as the psalmist said  they would (Psalm 91:4). May we all choose--initially and continually--to see past our pride, and grasp the truth with mind and heart! We will not be disappointed.

Blessings,
Jean
    
 

Pliable Pilate

We all know that Jesus was crucified at the command of the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Yet how many of us realize that there is a lesson for everyone in this man's decision? Yes, a lesson for you and me.

In the morning, the chief priests and the elders took Jesus to Pilate and falsely accused Him before the governor, saying that Jesus had said to not give tribute to Caesar. Pilate was amazed that Jesus had nothing to say for Himself when it came to the charges laid against Him. After Pilate examined Jesus in the judgment hall, he returned to the people and said, "I find in Him no fault [at all.]" (Matthew 27:1; Luke 23:2; Matthew 27:12-14; John 18:38).

Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, and that the people had brought Him there, not for any just reason, but because they envied Him (Matthew 27:18; Mark 15:10). After declaring that he believed Jesus to be guiltless and then finding out that He was a Galilean, Pilate sent Him to Herod, who had jurisdiction of Galilee. Herod couldn't find anything by which to convict Jesus as a criminal either, and had Him returned to Pilate (Luke 23:6-11).


"And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, Said unto them, Ye have brought this Man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined [Him] before you, have found no fault in this Man touching those things whereof ye accuse Him: No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto Him" (Luke 23:13-15).

Once again, Pilate asserts that Jesus has done no wrong; but then, the fateful words: "I will therefore chastise him, and release [Him]" (v. 16). "Here Pilate showed his weakness. He had acknowledged that Christ was innocent; then why should he punish Him? It was a compromise with wrong. The Jews never forgot this through all the trial. They had intimidated the Roman governor, and now pressed their advantage until they secured the condemnation of Jesus." Ellen White, The Story of Jesus, pg. 133.

So it was. From then on, the more Pilate sought to release Christ, the more adamant the Jews became in seeking His crucifixion. Eventually they cried, "If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar" (John 19:12). "This was touching Pilate in a weak place. He was already under suspicion by the Roman government, and he knew that a report of this kind would be his ruin." Ibid., pg. 137.

The governor tried to escape from sentencing the Saviour by literally washing his hands of the matter (Matthew 27:24). "In vain Pilate tried to free himself from the guilt of condemning Jesus. Had he acted promptly and firmly at the first, carrying out his convictions of right, his will would not have been overborne by the mob; they would not have presumed to dictate to him. His wavering and indecision proved his ruin. He saw that he could not release Jesus, and yet retain his own position and honor." Ibid., pg. 137.

Pilate was pliable, and a lover of his rank and reputation more than a lover of right. He could not hold on to both; he must choose, and sadly he decided to surrender the latter in favor of the former. "But in spite of his precautions, the very thing he dreaded afterward came upon him. His honors were stripped from him, he was cast down from his high office, and, stung by remorse and wounded pride, not long after the crucifixion he ended his own life." Ibid., pg. 137.

"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 6:24; 16:25).

We have seen what happens when one allows himself to be swayed this way and that by those around him, when he tries to have the best of both worlds; he meets with total loss--temporally and spiritually. May we learn from the life of Pilate, and choose, not to be pliable or pleasure-loving as he was, but completely unyielding where the truth is concerned--even willing to give up all that the world has to offer for its sake! In so doing, we will gain what can never be lost.

Blessings,
Jean


 
 

 

 

 

 

 

  

A Chronicle of Cups and Conscience

*Lily* and *Rose* had made the acquaintance of *Rachel* and *Tony*, a mother and son. They were very nice people, and the two sisters began to spend a lot of time with them. There was just one difference between the two groups: Lily and Rose were Christians, while Rachel and Tony were not. The girls tried to be good witnesses; but often their overall approach was clumsy, and Rose capitulated much of the time. Sometimes Lily would too, but she managed to stand firm for a while longer on the larger things, refusing to watch movies or engage in meaningless conversations. As time went on, however, her remaining willpower began to erode, until at last she joined in. She tried to lose herself in the fun and frolic, but always there seemed to be a convicting Voice in the back of her mind, marring her enjoyment.

One day, the group went to a mall. This mall had a store that sold many things from various Disney movies. Lily and Rose were not unfamiliar with these things--they hadn't grown up followers of Christ--but Lily especially felt that it shouldn't be a part of their lives anymore, considering what they claimed to be. All of this passed through Lily's mind as she entered the store, for the voice of conscience was still very much present, and it left her feeling very uneasy. Then she saw a cup with a character she used to really love on it. As she stared at it, memories of the movie and its pleasure came to her--that, along with the Holy Spirit's pleadings to resist the temptation. A battle raged in Lily's mind as she pondered these things.

"Do you want one?" It was Rachel speaking.

Time seemed to stand still as the girl hesitated, her mental disturbance greater than before. Now there was the question, How can I say no to Rachel? I would love to write that Lily called on Jesus and refused, but unfortunately that wasn't the case. Her own desires, coupled with this invitation from someone she had grown to love, proved too much for her weakened will.

"Yes," Lily replied, and along with Rose, chose the particular cup she wanted. The gleeful face of the character and the happy orange background did nothing to increase her own happiness as she held it. She knew she had done wrong yet again, and try as she might, she could not look at that mug afterwards without remembering something of that day.

Lily did use the cup, and kept it for a long time, but as her love for her LORD was rekindled, she hated to even bring it out of the cabinet to where others could see it. Eventually neither she nor Rose used them, and they sat on the shelf out of sight, until the day they were thrown away.

Thankfully, Lily and Rose never lost the presence of the Holy Spirit entirely, and were able to untangle themselves from the mess they created. Even so, both admit that it would have been far better if they had listened all that time. May their experiences be a lesson to us. Will you listen when "thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" (Isaiah 30:21)?

Blessings,
Jean

A Lesson from the Life of Henry Moorhouse

For those of you who don't know, Henry (or Harry, as he is sometimes called) Moorhouse was an English lad who was raised in a home that was Methodist only in name. Despite this, his Sunday school teacher was able to show him the love of Christ, and sow seeds of truth in his mind. Unfortunately for him, they were forgotten for a time as he developed friendships with wicked youth and plunged into a life of misery and sin. Different people along the way sought to turn him to Jesus, but to seemingly no avail. One night Henry and some friends were in a back alley. While he continued on, they seemed drawn to something in a nearby building, and motioned for him to come along. When he asked what was going on, they told him, "Lots of drink and fun!" as a practical joke. By this time, strains of a hymn reached Henry's ears, but strangely, he felt like going in. It was there that he was wholly converted. While he did not have all the truth, and reached a few erroneous conclusions, he had much correct.

One of the first things I learned about Henry was that he used to be a pick pocket, and after his conversion he still struggled with the urge to steal. His solution? Boxing gloves. Henry would wear these when he went out because he could not grab anything (especially what wasn't his) when he had them on. This incident impressed me. Henry obviously believed that GOD had forgiven him for his past thefts, and that GOD could give him the victory over this terrible habit; but he also knew that GOD wouldn't just hand him the victory on a silver platter, and that he had a work to do, a part to play, as well--hence the gloves. Bible teaching is in perfect harmony with this way of thinking. Paul tells us, "Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfill] the lusts [thereof]" (Romans 13:14). In doing this, Henry was making sure his fleshly nature couldn't get the better of him. After a time, he no longer needed the gloves, for the desire had left. "Submit yourselves therefore to GOD. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). Henry submitted and resisted by making no provision, and came off victor. May we all seek to do the same.

Blessings,
Jean

  

Behind the Scenes

We all know that GOD is working even when we can't see any physical results--behind the scenes, as it were, but it is very easy for us to forget this--without even realizing it sometimes. If someone were to ask us outright whether we doubted our prayers would be answered, we would most likely say, "No, I believe they will be." Yet we tend to show just the opposite in deed, manifesting a faith and courage so languid that it's as though we've said, "You're right. They won't be answered, not now or anytime soon." Sometimes I wonder if that is why, when prayer is answered, we marvel so much--because we did not altogether believe it would be in the first place, because we dared not hope for too much.

My friend *Sean* was texting me the other night, and out of the blue, he said he was giving up a certain vice, that he was done with it. I could not believe my eyes. "Zelda! Look! Look!" I exclaimed, pointing to the screen. When she read it, she was happy as well. I responded with an exclamation of praise, and Sean asked me if I had prayed. I told him that I had.

With this, I had actually reached that point where you pray about it, knowing GOD is capable, but not expecting too much to come of it. In fact, it was somewhat forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life. I know that was wrong, and in light of the great thing He has done, I feel ashamed; but I thank GOD for working it out nevertheless, even though my faith was weary and my mind forgetful.

It gave me hope for other problems, and reminded me of another similar incident that happened a few years ago. *Ginger* and I were talking about appropriate music, particularly in regards to worship. Music is usually a touchy subject with people, and especially when  people see that you hold to very conservative views like I do. When I expressed my beliefs, she became very upset. Finally I said, "Let's just agree to disagree; no use ruining our friendship over this."

She agreed, and we continued to chat as usual, always avoiding the subject. I remembered to pray about it a few times immediately afterwards, but I soon forgot. Sometimes it would come back to me, and I would pray, but I'm sad to say there were no constant petitions made on Ginger's behalf.

A year later she messaged me and said, "You remember that conversation we had about music awhile back?"

"Yes, I do," I replied. "Why?"

"Well, GOD showed me that you were right," she answered, and went on to explain how, though all the particulars are hazy now.

I had nearly forgotten about these things, but GOD hadn't. It took a few months for one, a year for another, but He answered my prayers--and the feeble ones at that! If GOD works so wondrously behind the scenes for requests of that sort, what would the answer be if we were, "praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" (Ephesians 6:18)? Something worth considering, isn't it?

Blessings,
Jean

About Flowers, Feeling Pathetic, and Finding Happiness

Lately, I had been very unhappy. Most everything seemed to be going wrong, except when it came to school. I felt like a floundering fish in terms of  making progress in my walk with the LORD. I was digressing--being increasingly irritable, giving in to frequent outbursts of anger, and bickering with Zelda over petty little things.

Yesterday afternoon, Mom, Zelda and I had a long discussion. We were able to hash some things out, and I was able to learn a few things, but even so, I felt so depressed. I would go from not wanting to try anymore to wanting to overcome through Christ. Unfortunately, in that tug of war, the former more or less won out.

When Mom left for work that night, Zelda and I were, I think, both a bit discouraged. Remembering what Mom had said earlier about our needing to be cheerful Christians, I started speaking in a positive, hopeful manner, expecting that my sister would join me and we could build each other up. Well, it didn't turn out that way. She would give an unhappy "yeah" or a little laugh to whatever I said. Regrettably, it made me angry, and I said to her, "This is what I mean when I say I try to be happy, and you don't do anything!"

"I'm sorry, Jean. Sometimes I just don't feel like talking," she said.

"That seems like never these days!" I shot back.

After a while I apologized, and sought to continue on being cheerful, even though tears were streaming down my face. It was no easy task. Zelda wasn't saying anything at all, and to be honest, I felt very foolish sitting there and speaking about Bible promises and heaven in the first place, because my feelings were at total variance with the words coming out of my mouth, and I didn't even want to do it; no response from Zelda made it all the harder.

Eventually I was looking around for something to say a good word about. My eyes fell on the dying Sabbath roses on the table. "Won't it be nice in heaven," I croaked, my throat aching as I tried to hold back tears, "where flowers never fade?" No reply. What was the point? Here I was, saying something about silly flowers! What good would it really do? The idea seemed so pathetic to my distraught mind that I had to laugh before I gave way to the tears again.

If I remember correctly, I cried for a few more minutes, and then asked Zelda what song she liked (I downloaded a few hymn tunes onto my computer). She said it didn't matter, so I played "Faith is the Victory". At one point, I asked her if there wasn't a chapter in Steps to Christ about rejoicing in the LORD, and she said she thought there was. I forget whether it was immediately or a while after I asked her that I went and looked at it, but sure enough, the last chapter was entitled "Rejoicing in the LORD".

As I read, I was reminded that we are to show that unbelievers are to be able to clearly see the character of Jesus in us, that as His followers it is our mission to let this be so. Ellen White wrote that the devil loves it when we are anything but that, because it gives a false impression of GOD's character to others. This I knew; but what was my part in changing that? I read further, and this is what she said:

"Many, walking along the path of life, dwell upon their mistakes and failures and disappointments, and their hearts are filled with grief and discouragement. While I was in Europe, a sister who had been doing this, and who was in deep distress, wrote to me, asking for some word of encouragement. The night after I had read her letter I dreamed that I was in a garden, and one who seemed to be the owner of the garden was conducting me through its paths. I was gathering the flowers and enjoying their fragrance, when this sister, who had been walking by my side, called my attention to some unsightly briers that were impeding her way. There she was mourning and grieving. She was not walking in the pathway, following the guide, but was walking among the briers and thorns. 'Oh,' she mourned, 'is it not a pity that this beautiful garden is spoiled with thorns?' Then the guide said, 'Let the thorns alone, for they will only wound you. Gather the roses, the lilies, and the pinks'" (Ibid, pg. 116)

She then went on to ask if there were no good times in our walk with Jesus, if there were not promises which we could take hold of. She wrote that when we only mention our troubles, we are not only despising GOD's goodness to us, but making life harder for others. The next paragraph sums it up quite well:

 "It is not wise to gather together all the unpleasant recollections of a past life,—its iniquities and disappointments,—to talk over them and mourn over them until we are overwhelmed with discouragement. A discouraged soul is filled with darkness, shutting out the light of God from his own soul and casting a shadow upon the pathway of others" (pg. 117).

Rather, we ought to speak about the wonderful things GOD has done for us by His Son, and the precious privileges we have as a result. This honors Him, and makes Him happy, but His heart is broken when we complain and doubt, in word or deed. Not only that, but it has a poisonous effect on us and those around us, and sometimes it can't be entirely counteracted:

"All this is harming your own soul; for every word of doubt you utter is inviting Satan’s temptations; it is strengthening in you the tendency to doubt, and it is grieving from you the ministering angels. When Satan tempts you, breathe not a word of doubt or darkness. If you choose to open the door to his suggestions, your mind will be filled with distrust and rebellious questioning. If you talk out your feelings, every doubt you express not only reacts upon yourself, but it is a seed that will germinate and bear fruit in the life of others, and it may be impossible to counteract the influence of your words. You yourself may be able to recover from the season of temptation and from the snare of Satan, but others who have been swayed by your influence may not be able to escape from the unbelief you have suggested. How important that we speak only those things that will give spiritual strength and life!" (pg. 119).

What a weighty thought! I shuddered as I read it, but continued on anyway. I was reminded that heavenly intelligences are listening to what we say, and that all we say is an index to what we think of Jesus. No wonder when we meet with others we ought to praise Him!

There are a lot of gems in this small book, but I want to share one more with you:

"All have trials; griefs hard to bear, temptations hard to resist. Do not tell your troubles to your fellow mortals, but carry everything to God in prayer. Make it a rule never to utter one word of doubt or discouragement. You can do much to brighten the life of others and strengthen their efforts, by words of hope and holy cheer" (pg. 119).

For me, this was the section that cinched and strengthened my desire to do better in regards to speaking. Have I been absolutely perfect since last night? No, but I have been making more of an effort to watch what I say, and to look happy too. As a result, I feel happier-not in a boisterous way, but in a calm, serene way. I hope this post can help one of you, and I would encourage all of you to read the book that inspired this post.


Blessings,
Jean

 

 

Reading, Writing, and "Whatsoever Things Are..."

Books are wonderful things. I've loved them ever since I was little. They can teach us so much. The trouble is, there are so many out there these days that it's often hard to know what to pick. Knowing what sort of book to make is even harder. Thankfully, as with every other aspect of life, the Bible gives us some guidelines to follow. I'm sharing them with you today because I see so many other young people in the same position I was once, devouring and even writing books with the word "Christian" tacked on to the genre, without giving much thought to how Christ-like the content actually is.  My hope is that by doing so, I can prevent someone from doing as much damage as I did to myself before I changed my course.

 

In Philippians 4:8, Paul gives a list of qualities that should be present in the things we think on. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, 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." I think it would help in the long run if we analyze what we choose to read and write about by this sound advice.

 

• "...Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest" The very first rule of thumb is that we must think on, or in this case read about, what is true. Indeed, why do we do any less? In Colossians 3:9, we are told not to lie. Well, fiction, even "Christian" fiction, isn't true, and therefore is a lie. Many people like to say that Jesus spoke in parables which weren't literal and therefore untrue, so it's all right to read and write fiction. I've used the same argument myself in the past, but sadly it falls flat. Most of the parables Jesus told were taken from events that were going on at the time, or had happened recently. The only exception is the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, which He told to the Sadducees and others who held to the notion of life after death, as many do today. With this parable, Jesus used this idea as a vehicle for the truth He wished to share. (See Christ's Object Lessons, page 263).

 

• "...Whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure" The Greek word for just is dikaios, meaning equitable, or right, fair. The word for pure is hagnos, meaning clean or innocent. Allow me to use this portion of the verse to include something else we need to watch for in our reading besides truth. It is purity. Yes, content must be pure, but that will be addressed further on, since the next part is somewhat a reiteration and enlargement on that thought. When I say purity here, I'm not only talking about the overall message of a book, but something people might class as nit-picky. Can you guess? It is purity of language, clean language. As Christians, we must not excuse the reading of anything with vulgarity in it, even if it is true and the theme is good. You become what your eyes feed upon, and the devil doesn't care if his opening wedge is a "little" cuss word; he can work most successfully with those so- called "little" evils. Of course, this limits our selection of suitable reading even further, but you will experience a blessing for being so selective, trust me.

 

• "...Whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise," Just because something is true and swear-free doesn't mean it's proper mental food. It must also be good overall. This doesn't mean we can never read or write about anything sad or bad, for even the Bible chronicles some things that in and of themselves aren't good or innocent--but we need to ask ourselves when doing something like that whether it would eventually lead to something better and draw us all closer to GOD. For example, we could read about Hitler and the Third Reich; it's true, but is it lovely? Do the chronicles of his wicked deeds strengthen my relationship with GOD? No. On the other hand, we could read about the martyrs of old, or even our persecuted brethren today. It is true that the things that happened to them were awful, but the purpose of these acts being recorded is to show the extent to which they suffered and how they were still able to stand for Him regardless. Their example can inspire us to do the same. It  can strengthen us by reminding us that He just as He strengthened them, He will strengthen us if we ever need to face that as well. That is what makes such a book praiseworthy.

 

In reality, you could sum up these determining factors in one simple question-- provided you answer it honestly without the least bit of fudging: "Would Jesus be happy with the books on my bookshelf, with the drafts in my notebook (or on my computer)?" If the answer is no, don't be discouraged. Ask Him to forgive you, and to show you a better  way so that you can think on things that are pleasing to Him, and lead others to do the same.

Blessings,
Jean

 

 

 

 

 

 

Youth Strengthening Youth

It is true that many youth destroy other youth by their corrupt example, but it is also true that many youth strengthen other youth by their good example.

For a while, Zoe had secretly felt that she shouldn't have a Google+ anymore, but she always justified keeping it by saying, "Well, Jane [her sister] has one, and Alice [a friend] has one, so it must be OK!" One day Jane went on her Google+ and saw that Alice had said she was getting rid of her Google+ because she felt convicted about it. Jane related this to Zoe, and afterwards Zoe declared that she  was going to delete her Google+ as well. Her friend's example had revived her stifled convictions and inspired her to heed them this time. "Seeing Alice do it gave me the courage to do it, too," she explained.

One Sabbath morning, Jane had spoken about something un-Sabbath-like with her father. When she was in the youth Sabbath school, the teacher related something one of the fellow students, Jack, had to struggle with. Friday evening his sister had called. Jack offered to play something for her on the piano. "What would you like me to play for you?" he asked after a moment or two. His sister named a piece that wasn't appropriate for the Sabbath. As much as Jack loved his sister, he had to refuse. He wondered if he had done the right thing, but realized he had to be faithful to GOD even in the little things. Jane and all the others agreed.

Later in church that day, the thought came to her that she should apologize to her father when she went home, as he hadn't gone to church that day. She decided to, but when she returned home, her courage began to wane. After all, her father wouldn't understand, and she might receive a lecture or criticism. O LORD, it's such a little thing. He will think I'm extreme, she thought. And besides, You know what I will get.

The thought came to her as clearly as if someone had spoken: What did Jack do?

Jane paused. True, the situations weren't exactly the same, but the principles at stake were: listening to one's convictions, standing up for one's beliefs, and being faithful in the little things. OK, OK, she relented, and went and apologized. Although she was criticized, her heart felt light, because she had done the right thing.

But neither Zoe nor Jane, as far as we know, would have done what they did had it not been for the godly examples of Alice and Jack. How important it is, then, fellow young people, that we strive to present a good example! Who knows who it may help.

Paul's counsel to Titus is just as applicable to us today. He said, "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works" (Titus 2:7a). A pattern, friends, that our friends are safe in following. In the book of Hebrews, chapter ten, he writes: "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works" (v. 24). Perhaps this doesn't always mean we should consciously consider other specific individuals, but simply that we should consider whether choices we make are worthy of imitation, and whether they could strengthen someone else to choose to do what is good and right. May we all seek to do this. One never knows the extent of the positive influence such a course will have in this life and in the next.

Blessings,
Jean



 

We Must Make Things Right

Central American Mission, or CAM, was the mission that Cameron Townsend was with. Some of those at the mission couldn't understand why Cam thought translating the Bible into Cakchiquel, the language of the Cakchiquel Indians of Guatemala, was important. CAM was to officially vote on whether Cam should be allowed to continue doing it. In 1925, Cam and his wife went to Moody Church in Chicago to attend CAM's council meeting on the issue. When it was time for lunch, he went for a walk with Mr. Smith, who appeared to feel the most strongly against Bible translation. Nothing Cam said seemed to change Mr. Smith's mind, and at one point his temper flared. Cam heatedly declared that the New Testament would be translated into Cakchiquel, regardless of whether Mr. Smith liked it or not! With that said, he returned to Moody Church alone. When the vote was taken, six men were for going ahead with the project, and two were opposed to it. One of the two was Mr. Smith, but even so, Cam was happy. Six to two meant he could carry on with his translation work. Nothing would hinder him now.

He was wrong. His brother Paul had done much for the mission, building schools and clinics and orphanages, but while Cam was away, Paul had accepted a teaching job at the Presbyterian Industrial College, located in the capital of Guatemala, Guatemala City. This meant that Cam had many more responsibilities, and less time for the translation work he loved so much. When a year had passed since his return to the mission field, he realized that he had only been able to spend twelve days translating! As Cam pondered this, he remembered how he had treated Mr. Smith. It didn't seem to matter now that he had won the vote, for ever since that day with Mr. Smith, his work had reached an impasse. Cam knew that he had to apologize, and he wrote a letter to Mr. Smith, in essence telling him that unless the LORD was behind it, he would never complete the translation.

Once he sent the letter, Cam's translation work again went smoothly. It is the same with us in our business. The LORD can't bless us as fully if there is something between us and another person. We must do all we can to make it right, and then we may expect things to improve. We would do well to follow the Scripture, "Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed" (James 5:16a).

Blessings,
Jean

Dry Bones

Sometimes we all wonder, "Am I converted?" I think the best way to answer that question is to ask another: "What is the driving force behind all I choose to do?" Is it a desire to glorify GOD, or to please myself? Such a question shouldn't be answered hastily, else we are liable to reach the wrong conclusion. We should thoroughly examine ourselves, and answer honestly. No good will come from glossing over the truth to spare ourselves pain. It doesn't improve the current situation and will only lead to far greater pain in the future. If deep down the answer is the latter, it is true that that is both an uncomfortable and deplorable situation; but we should not give ourselves over entirely to despair. The fact that we recognize our lack, cutting though it may be, is something to rejoice over—not because the lack is good in and of itself, but because we are able to receive the help that Jesus longs to give.

Jesus wants to restore us, to breathe life into us again, just like He did the dry bones that Ezekiel saw in the valley (Ezekiel 37). In fact, those bones symbolize people like me and maybe you. "This class is well represented by the valley of dry bones Ezekiel saw in vision. "Those who have had committed to them the treasures of truth, and yet who are dead in trespasses and sin, need to be created anew in Christ Jesus." Ellen White, The Review and Herald, January 17, 1893.  Look at what He said to those bones: "And [I] shall put My spirit in you, and ye shall live" (v. 14).

He is able to do it, and He has done it for those who sincerely desired it. David wrote in Psalm 119:50, "This [is] my comfort in my affliction: for Thy word hath quickened [meaning revived] me." Yes, and He will do it for us too, if we ask and act in faith. Then we shall seek His glory in everything, and He will be glorified in us.

Blessings,
Jean

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Help to Stem the Tide

"The people will seldom rise higher than their minister. A world-loving spirit in him has a tremendous influence upon others. The people make his deficiencies an excuse to cover their world-loving spirit. They quiet their own consciences, thinking that they may be free to love the things of this life and be indifferent to spiritual things because their ministers are so. They deceive their own souls and remain in friendship with the world, which the apostle declares to be enmity with God." ~Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pg. 645.

The people will seldom rise higher than their minister. Wow. What a startling thought! At the same time, what a true statement this is. Until I read this quote in Gospel Workers, I had never given the idea much thought. As I mentally reviewed the pastors I've had over the years, and the congregations they were in charge of, however, I couldn't help but make the connection. I also couldn't help but wonder how this related to the rising apostasy in the church.

I'm not saying that the congregation's spiritual standing is due to the pastor's one hundred percent, nor do I mean to imply that it is impossible for the congregation to be different from the minister. No. We each have a responsibility to GOD, and "seldom" means rarely, not never.

Yet we have seen that "by beholding, we become changed". Influence is a subtle, yet powerful tool. Used in the right direction, it can do much good; used in the opposite direction...well, you get the picture. That is why we need to be extremely careful not to simply be spoon-fed by the pastor each week, but to evaluate everything he says by the Word, despite his position of leadership. Not everyone is strong enough to do this at first, however. Along with being good examples to our fellow members, we need to pray for our pastors. We need to pray that they will catch brighter beams of truth, that they will understand it more clearly, for their own sakes and the sake of their flocks--especially those that are easily swayed. Even the apostle Paul, who could be considered a pastor, wrote to the Thessalonians and said, "Brethren, pray for us" (1 Thessalonians 5:25).

I believe that if we all make an effort to assist our pastors through our prayers that we will see a definite difference in the church. No, it won't change everyone, but it might change a few that would have never changed otherwise, and this is one more way in which we will be able to stem the tide of wickedness among GOD's people. Will you help?

Blessings,
Jean