The Spirit of Prophecy . Merry Christmas

“Then I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “Do not do that; I am a fellow servant of yours and your brethren who hold the testimony of Jesus; worship God. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”” (Revelation 19:10)

Prophecy authenticates the Bible. Prophecy authenticates Jesus Christ. It comes from another dimension, an eternal dimension that spans time and scans time.

The prophet is an agent of God, an ordinary human gifted to hear from God and speak what he hears. Prophecy is a gift from God, letting mortals know what is happening or going to happen in our dimension, on earth and in time.

In the Bible we have an incredible, or should I say credible, array of prophecies and prophets whose words demonstrate the validity of the Bible and it’s main subject, the Messiah, the Christ, the Lion of Judah, the King of Kings.

It’s true also that prophecy increases in frequency and volume when there is some major move of God afoot. That seems to be the case in our day, but that’s a discussion for another time.

It was certainly the case as the Holy One announced the advent of His Son in the stars and through His servants the prophets.

It’s also a sad and interesting aside of history that many don’t get it. They don’t hear it. They don’t see it. Thus they miss it’s life changing and eternity changing implications, to their own detriment.

This was the case of King Herod the Great as he heard the Magi, who were king makers from the east, and reported to him they had ridden some seven hundred miles to bring gifts and worship “He who has been born the King of the Jews.”(Matt 2:2) Herod had to ask them about the sign and when the indicator star had appeared. Then he had to ask those familiar with the Scriptures where the King would be born. “Bethlehem in Judah” they replied according the prophet Micah seven centuries ago. These signs in plain view had been missed by Herod, just like they are by many in our day and our place.

Indeed there was a long litany of prophecies, spoken, written and preserved over hundreds and thousands of years concerning the coming King of Kings, beginning in the the Garden of Eden [Gen 3:15], and extending through Abraham, four thousand years ago, David, three thousand years ago, and until time of Herod in Israel during the Roman Empire, two thousand years ago. These were prophecies of incredible specificity and accuracy, as we shall see.

Some of these include:

[1] He will be the seed of woman (Gen 3)

[2] He will be the seed of Abraham (Gen 12)

[3] He will be the seed of Judah (Gen 49)

[4] He will be the seed of Jesse (Isa 11)

[5] He will be the seed of David (IISam 7)

[6] He will be the seed of a virgin (Isa 7)

[7] He will be born in Bethlehem (Mic 5)

[8] There will be a special anointing of the Holy Spirit on Him (Isa 11:61)

[9] There will be a messenger that will go before Him (Isa 40 & Mal 3)

[10] He will be crucified (Isa 50 & 53)

[11] He will rise again from the dead (Ps 16)

[12] He will make a new covenant (Jer 31)

[13] He will receive the kingdom from the Father (Dan 7 & Isa 9)

[14] He will pour out His Spirit on all flesh; sons and daughters will prophesy (Joel 2)

And as we approach Christmas, let’s look anew at some of the prophecies immediately preceding His birth. And as noted before, there is an increased activity when God is getting ready to do something special.

[1] God sent His angel Gabriel to Zacharias the old priest. “You will have a son. Name him John.”

[2] God sent His angel Gabriel to Mary. “You will conceive and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.” “He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”

[3] God told Mary that her cousin Elizabeth is pregnant.

[4] God told Elizabeth that Mary was pregnant with her Lord.

[5] God told Simeon he “would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Christ”

[6] God told also at the same time an eighty-four year old prophetess named Anna that Jesus was the Christ.

[7] God told Joseph to take the Child and his mother and flee to Egypt for safety, later leading him back to Nazareth where Jesus would grow up.

“He remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”” (Matthew 2:15)

“and came and lived in a city called Nazareth. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophets: “He shall be called a Nazarene.”” (Matthew 2:23)

And on it goes. Amazing, and reassuring. Our God is the God of the ages, and the God of eternity. Much more could be said of His prophets and His telling, or speaking forth what He is about to do. But let’s just pause on Christmas Eve, ponder the wonder of it all, and Worship, with the Wise Men, “He who is born the King of the Jews.”

“And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. “For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave; For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. “For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. “And His mercy is upon generation after generation Toward those who fear Him.” (Luke 1:46–50)

“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10–11)

““For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.”” (Acts 2:39)

Christmas Shalom to you and those you love,

Dwayne

Much of the above material comes from a sermon by Charles Simpson, “The Spirit of Prophecy.”

Bethlehem Star

“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” (Matthew 2:9–10)

Every year in December I pull out the Bethlehem Star DVD that I discovered a few years ago and watch it a few times; worshiping, reflecting, learning, meditating … in awe.

As I start a new category on the book’s blog, Bread for the Spirit, this is a fitting first. We’re in the season of Advent, which Wikipedia describes like this:

“Advent is a season observed in many Western Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The term is an anglicized version of the Latin word adventus, meaning ‘coming’. … Latin adventus is the translation of the Greek word parousia, commonly used to refer to the Second Coming of Christ. For Christians, the season of Advent anticipates the coming of Christ from two different perspectives. The season offers the opportunity to share in the ancient longing for the coming of the Messiah, and to be alert for his Second Coming.”

In the Christian tradition, many churches and families make an Advent wreath with five candles, lighting one candle on each Sunday in December marching up to December 25th when we light the Christ-candle symbolizing the light of the world and celebrate Christmas — the coming and the gift of the Christ Child, One Who would be our Savior, One Who is King and Lord of all.

On the first Advent Sunday, the “hope” candle is lit. His advent gives us hope of life after death, just as He exhibited it. And the “hope” of good relationships on earth and in eternity, especially a reconnection with our Creator Father, the God of hope.

On the second Sunday, yesterday, the “peace” candle was lit. His advent gives us a restored “peace” with God, a present personal “peace” by knowing Him and His ways, and the promise of eternal “peace” through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Somehow, the yearly viewing of this wonderful DVD reminds me of all of that! I pray you get it and make viewing it a meaningful family tradition, and/or that you gift it to loved ones. They’ll be joyful you did!

Who among us does not enjoy beautiful art, beautiful music, and the discoveries of good science? I think it’s beautiful too that God gave this revelation to a lawyer, not an astronomer or scientist, but someone who is trained to look for clues, prove a case, and puzzle things out. A truth seeker, perhaps with a heart of worship?

This is something akin to what A.W. Tozer writes in his introduction to “The Knowledge of the Holy.” “…this book is neither esoteric nor technical, and since it is written in the language of worship with no pretension to elegant literary style, perhaps some persons will be drawn to read it. … I yet write not for the professional theologians but for plain persons whose hearts stir them up to seek after God Himself.”

I’ll leave you with this information from the Bethlehem Star web site. And with a sincere prayer for His Blessing on you and those you love during Advent and Christmas 2013. His Hope, and His Peace be yours in abundance! Amen.

“But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.” (Micah 5:2)

“This One will be our peace. ” (Micah 5:4–5)

***************************************

“It’s an astronomical mystery. A strange star is claimed to have appeared at the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. This site is an investigation of the story found in the Biblical Gospel of Matthew, a story often called the ‘Star of Bethlehem.’ It brings the words of Roman and Jewish historians alongside the visions of ancient prophets. It mixes “modern” mathematicians with murderous turmoil in the Roman imperial court. It combines all these with astronomical facts which no one disputes. And it concludes that the star was a real event. Come solve this age-old mystery for yourself…”

“Well-researched and reasonable” Former Chief of Planetary Astronomy, NASA, and Technical Editor, Sky & Telescope magazine

“An interesting look… at the star… genuinely thought-provoking” Christianity Today magazine

“Models the scientific method at its best” Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

“A convincing case…a mystery solved” Former Director, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center

“IF THE STAR was a natural event, does that mean it was not a miracle? Perhaps just the opposite. For, if the stars were arranged to create a sign, that arrangement is as old as time. A Star which is part of the orderly natural universe is a Clockwork Star. A sign put in place before men walked the Earth…”

The Highs of Friendship

Jim & Dwayne from the heights of Waynapicchu

Friendship can take a person to new heights on their earth pilgrimage, as well as make the trip worth while!

I’ve believed that as long as I can remember, with my parents modeling it for me and my siblings. I’ve experienced it for myself in every chapter of life. And I recently experienced it in the heights of the Andes, the center of the ancient Inca Empire.

Ken! Yes…

I joined two long-time friends who flew fighters with me in the military for more than twenty years on a friendship and life adventure to Peru. We flew as captains for American Airlines too, making the travel considerably easier and cheaper. 🙂 We are also Brothers in Christ, each attending different churches in our city. Friends! For three decades now! What a blessing!

Peru? The exotic Machu Picchu, picturesque and mysterious, was our adventure destination. And what a joyful experience it proved to be. To experience travel and places of unusual beauty with friends makes the whole experience more meaningful for everyone and something you share in your hearts for the rest of your life… and eternity. The laughter, the vistas, the experiences, the meals shared, the new friends met and made along the way, and experiencing it together is food for the soul and joy to the spirit. It’s the way God intended life to be! A double gift to us.

Friends old and new! The joy of the journey!

Contemplating and enjoying with friends the beauty of His creation, and the mystery of His involvement with His creatures everywhere on the globe spells relationship with His sons and daughters. It’s beautiful and enjoyable. I think it pleases God too — to watch us and to Be a part of it.

Friendship! It’s worth it! Enjoy friendship today, and every chance you get! Be proactive at making and enjoying friends! At planning and carving out special times, and setting aside your agenda when opportunities present themselves … to help another, share a meal, have coffee, or go on adventures great or small.

Dwayne at the entrance to the famous Incan ruins

Dwayne near the entrance to the famous Incan ruin of Machu Picchu

One of my travel friends has a plaque over the door to his cabin on the White River of Arkansas. “Faith, Family, Friends.” That says it all. It’s what matters now and for eternity.

Among other things, Machu Picchu showed us that wherever men are found, God has “set eternity in their heart.”

The wonder of Machu Picchu? And the wonder of Friendship? To be continued…

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

[A Few Photos]

[Many more photos! :)]

Give Thanks with Knowledge of the Holy

A cold, rainy, sleeting Monday morning, and I sit by the fire reading Tozer’s, “The Knowledge of the Holy,” Chapter 6, “THE SELF-SUFFICIENCY OF GOD.”

Powerful insight and powerfully true…

I was struck by the truth of it, as it raised my eyes to the hills, to my Help, the LORD, the Creator of heaven and earth. And it pointed out vividly to me some truth espoused in my recent book, and truth revealed to me as I’ve journaled the last two years, about God and about our times.

Thank You Father for your very present help and closeness to those who seek You and Your ways. You certainly are “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” Help us to seek. Help us to find. Help us to live while we do. You are what we need.

“for “ ‘In him we live and move and have our being’ (Acts 17:28)

Perhaps it’s time to pause for some Thanksgiving. I am. I encourage you to do so as well.

Enjoy the national holiday! Enjoy your friends and family. Enjoy the air you breath, and everything good in your life. He’s given them all to you.

“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.” (James 1:17)

I just finished a blog article I entitled “America Bless God.” And I recall David, the sweet poet of Israel, the warrior king of Israel, and the “man after God’s own heart” prayed like this:

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits;” (Psalm 103:1–2)

You choose! You always do.

Matt Redman’s famous, beautiful song also comes to mind, “Ten Thousand Reasons.”

His grace to you all, and Happy Thanksgiving!

“And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for “ ‘In him we live and move and have our being’; as even some of your own poets have said, “ ‘For we are indeed his offspring.’ Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”” (Acts 17:26–31)[Bolding my own.]

I leave you with that excerpt from one of the most famous sermons in history, Paul the Apostle to the men of Athens, in a day of spiritual blindness, perhaps like our day.

Choose life. Choose wisely. Choose thanksgiving. Choose to see God as He Is, not what we’ve perhaps imagined Him to be. He’s adorable. Choose thanksgiving and adoration, today. By our seeking, and His revelation, may He grant us “THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE HOLY.”

[Photos by Mark B., neighbor and friend, Europe 2013]

America Bless God

My Father and My Son on my Birthday 2013… Lot's to be thankful for….

My Father and My Son on my Birthday 2013… Thank You Father of Good Gifts

In dark times with many challenges our forefathers paused to give thanks to God for his help and goodness, from their hearts. That’s good advice for us today. Let’s pause privately to do so where we are, and then in families and corporately wherever we can.

The roots of Thanksgiving as celebrated in the United States were recently spelled out to me beautifully by one of my best friends and spiritual mentors Charles Angel. You can read his article here.

Some historical insights he brings to light will warm your heart and refresh your mind as to God’s help in America’s rise to greatness, greatness we have enjoyed and enjoy today. Reflect and give thanks!

“As Thanksgiving approaches, which begins the Christmas season celebration, I think it remains relevant to remember those who braved a sixty-six day arduous voyage on the Mayflower to establish Plymouth in 1620 and set up the foundations for the God-given right of freedom for this Nation’s future generations. These Pilgrims chose to stand for the truth without compromise and for the hope that they and their posterity could experience liberty under God. It cost them everything to lay the groundwork of the most prosperous and free nation in history.

Their significant document, The Mayflower Compact, placed in the hands of the people the right to create laws and constitutions under God’s direction. This document became a basis for more than eighty colonial charters and covenants that laid the foundation for America’s Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It set the direction for this Nation, reading in part:

“…having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith...”

Then about 150 years later…

…That congressional resolution was delivered to President George Washington, who issued the first federal Thanksgiving proclamation, declaring in part:

“Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor. . . . Now, therefore, I do appoint Thursday, the 26th day of November 1789 . . . that we may all unite to render unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection.”

Then about 70 years later…

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued a Thanksgiving proclamation setting aside the last Thursday of that November. Despite the difficult circumstances, Lincoln called Americans to prayer with an air of positive optimism and genuine thankfulness, noting:

The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the Source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God. . . . No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, Who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.”

So, in light of the above-noted statements and deeds that laid out the course of action and standards for America, what say you regarding how this great Republic is measuring up in 2013? Is Almighty God glorified by the actions of this nation? Is the Christian faith being advanced by the administrative, legislative and judicial branches of government at the federal, state and local levels? Is the Church significantly influencing secular society? To say that there seem to be a few “chinks in the armor’s integrity” would certainly be an understatement!

However, if we only look at the results of mankind’s efforts to meet the lofty goals set by our founders, despair will set in and thankfulness will diminish. Maybe our wise founding fathers knew that erosion along the way would be caused by our old sin nature, which cannot be redeemed by man’s laws, rules and regulations. To keep hope alive, it appears that their primary reasoning for the establishment of Thanksgiving was to redirect mankind’s focus away from individual circumstances and toward the Creator of heaven and earth.

Let us remember Him, now as then, and offer a prayer of heart-felt thanksgiving.

The Book Makes Fall Friends

“Life is a daring adventure or it’s nothing.” Helen Keller

The book is making new friends, the pace at just the right speed, steady as the Spirit leads. Slow enough to meet people, get involved in their lives to some degree, look into their eyes and journeys, pray over issues spoken and unspoken, enjoy their gifts, their lives, their characters, their personalities and their human being. Yet steady enough to get the book known in new circles of friends and keep me somewhat occupied with it’s mission in the world, without it becoming a burden or chore.

Pastor Patrick Kimberland with Dwayne

On a rainy Saturday morning, October 5th, I spoke to the Butterfield AOG men’s group about the book, our times, and issues facing men — also about the preeminence of Jesus and us deepening our relationship with Him through the disciplines. Many thanks to good friend Jeff Beauchamp who arranged this meeting with some excellent brothers.

Librarian introduces authors

On the beautiful Sunday afternoon of October 27th, I participated at a book signing and “Meet Our New Author’s Event” at the Van Buren, AR, Public Library, along with about ten other area authors and area citizens who came to listen, learn, buy signed copies, and ask questions about our books. Several books were sold and signed while making new and interesting friends.

On October 31st, Halloween Night, I was asked to speak at a church in Yates Center, KS, after a member read my book and recommended me to the pastor for their Hallelujah Night event. This was a great experience with some very loving, genuine people who live in community

Doug and I leave the house for a day spent together

and worship the King. A very nice extra benefit for me was getting to spend two nights and days with a long-time friend, former fighter pilot, and squadron mate Doug Lamb, reconnecting with his family due to the fact he lives only thirty miles away.

Marsha and the Ladies serve up a great meal for Hallelujah night!

Ummm Hmmmm…

Sarah Lamb Stockebrand, a princess to me, and a friend of the King.

Ahhh! The Country Life …

By the way, this Tuesday night, November 19th, I’ll be at the Harrison, Arkansas, Public Library for a book signing event. If you’re in the area, I hope to see you there! The journey continues!

Burning Bustle or Stop Drop And Roll

Dad in my brother Gene’s Jeep with Mr. Peabody

Curious title? Bustle is public enemy number one for me at the moment. It’s endemic of our times, so I predict it may be your enemy too — an enemy to peace, to hearing from the Lord, to spiritual growth, and to spiritual well being.

We run so fast these days. Aided by technology and affluence, we run so fast that we’re chronically exhausted, and our pace of activity has blinded us to our pitiful states. So we go on, from one activity frantically to the next until we fall exhausted in our beds, only to arise when able to begin the ritual again. Sound familiar?

Checking on the cows

Peaceful Day with Dad and Brother

I’ve fallen behind of late, reporting on the book, and spending quality time in spiritual pursuits, that means practicing the disciplines. One of my life axioms often quoted to my friends is, “It’s better to live life than to record it.” And it is, but living at a burnout pace is the ditch on the other side of the road.

This morning while reading and journaling, I was reminded of something my good friend Charles tells me quite often, “You need to slow down to the speed of life.

The next thing I found myself writing in my journal was, “Stop, Drop, and Roll!” Do you recognize the phrase and where it comes from? It’s what you’re supposed to remember to do if you ever find yourself or your clothing on fire! It’s not the intuitive or natural thing to do, but it will starve the fire of oxygen, putting it out, saving your skin and your life.

Do you see the spiritual analogy? I did this morning when I wrote it. I’ve been far too busy, on fire with activity. So I stopped, dropped, and rolled spiritually in my study and kitchen. I read the Word. I journaled. I meditated. I listened for insights and revelations. I quieted myself. Comically I saw myself lying there, smoke rising from my tattered clothing, relieved the flames were extinguished, listening intently in silence for the voice I’ve been missing because of the bustle. Enjoying the quiet, the peace, the rest, and the promise of hearing something from the Spirit of worth or of joy.

At times like this I am well aware of the bankruptcy of the bustled life. I’m also grateful for some intervention to help me off the hamster wheel of our twenty-first century existence, and the opportunity to set some habits or spiritual disciplines to guard against these fires in the future, to guard against bustle, to foster living at the speed of life.

Life is such a gift. Let’s live it as designed and intended, for our good and enjoyment, as well as those we love. And to befriend the King.

Lord make us aware. Lord help us to exercise our free wills, and choose habits and actions that foster a slower pace more conducive to hearing, seeing, and enjoying our spiritual lives and Your Presence. Amen.

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10)

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

“I heard another voice from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not participate in her sins and receive of her plagues;” (Revelation 18:4)

Friends of the Library and Friends of the Book

Amy & Chad stop for a hardback and some chat

September 10th, several friends dropped by the main library near our home and the city center to purchase books or have purchased books signed.

The library staff was most helpful and efficient in promoting the event and facilitating the same. They advertised the book by name in the local newspaper, “The Times Record,” as well as in a popular local magazine, “e Fort Smith.”

Have books – will sign 🙂

A place was set up for me at the main library entrance at the appointed time, and friends old and new begin to filter in, to talk about the book and enjoy friendship.

Val stops by for a signed copy and a visit

There were many surprises, including a former college professor, who saw the advertisements, and stopped by to purchase a book. Two dear friends from First Baptist who recently traveled with me to Israel purchased a book on Amazon, coming by for a visit and a signature. A young lady I

The Fort Smith Public Library on Rogers Ave.

came to know on a mission trip to Belize came by with her new husband for a book and a chat. A young man I know from the business world, coming to the library to study for a college class happened by and purchased a book. There were many more visits, and there was never a lull. Three hours passed very quickly as life and the book were shared with friends.

Many thanks to all who came! And to the Fort Smith Public Library for their “over the top” support of local authors!

The book journey continues….

Book Status August 2013

Greetings Friends of “Friends of the King”,

Many of you have expressed interest in the process of getting a book published and promoted. Lot’s of beautiful and exciting water has gone under the bridge since the book’s official drop date, May 23rd, and I won’t try to recreate that with you here.

But as of today, here is the status and some of the things going on.

[1] The official press release from the publisher, WestBow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson, has gone out this week to over 500 media outlets with whom they have a relationship. Please pray that this press release finds it’s marks, helping the book to become known outside it’s present circles, perhaps nationally.

[2] The webpage for the book seems to be functioning well, making the information about the book easily found in one location. The Facebook page is helping get the word out to friends via friends. Thanks to many for your feedback, for liking the Facebook page , and for sharing the book information with your friends.

[3] I have a book signing scheduled at the Fort Smith Public Library on September 10th. If

Working on the book at the Apple Store

you’re in the area, or want a closer look at the book, I’d love to see you.

[4] I’m supposed to receive a report from the publisher soon with the number of books sold to date (WestBow Press & Amazon). From my personal records, I’ve distributed 19 hard backs, 152 soft backs, and 5 electronic versions.

That’s it for the state of the book as of the end of August 2013. Thanks for your interest and continued support, in action, and in prayer. May the Lord do with the book what seems best to Him. Remember to “Befriend the King!” Spend time with Him, and enjoy your journey.

Blessings and Shalom, Dwayne

Image texted to me from a friend reading the book at lunch

PS Simple ways to help! And much appreciated!!

[1] Pray for the book.

[2] Share the website and/or the Facebook link with your friends.

[3] Buy a copy for a friend who could use the encouragement or insights.

[4] Go to the “Friend of the King” Facebook page and “like” it.

[5] Pray for the book! 🙂

(I know prayer is there twice, but it’s more than twice as important as anything on the list! The power of prayer is potentially the power of God!!)

My Dad

Our family just celebrated Dad’s 89th Birthday!! We love and respect the patriarch of our family so much! Granddaughter Stephanie, with help from other family members hosted a beautiful party for him at his home. It was a most joyful event.

Dad, Kyle, Robert, and Gene

In “Friends of the King” page 62, after citing his favorite poem, “IF” by Rudyard Kipling, I said this about Dad:

The latter poem, as alluded, is my father’s favorite, and at eighty-eight he can still quote most of it. He has also lived it, and I’m forever grateful he did, in front of me, my brother, my sister, our friends, and his friends. One man like that cast a very large shadow of protection, wisdom, instruction, and life.

Stephanie, Dad, Freda

In his birthday card, I wrote these two Scriptures. I can’t say it better.

“A righteous man that walketh in his integrity, Blessed are his children after him.” (Proverbs 20:7, 1901 ASV)

“The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.” (Psalm 16:6, NASB95)

Thank you Dad, for your sacrifice, your love, and your character; for leading our family; for pointing us to the King, and for your service to the King.

Celebrate!

A Friend of the King

David and His Mighty Men