The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Acts 16:40, “They went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia,

and when they saw the brethren, they encouraged them and departed.”

You cannot break the Christian spirit! I’ve always loved this 16th chapter.

Paul and Silas were arrested, beaten, and imprisoned, but they prayed

and sang praises to the LORD (v. 25). When those responsible for their

imprisonment discovered they were Roman citizens, they feared reprisal

and immediately sought to release them. Can you imagine being told

you were free and yet refusing to go? That’s what Paul and Silas did!

No way, Paul said. They’ve beaten us publicly and without trial, and now

they want us to quietly leave? Not on your life! Let them come and

formally release us themselves. Wow! Talk about boldness! Then,

when released, they went to Lydia’s house where believers came to

visit them. And they –Paul and Silas—encouraged their fellow-believers!

It’s like our going to the hospital to encourage a sick person only to leave

with the patient having encouraged us! When we are led by the Spirit

and know it, nothing can discourage us! Nothing!!!

May the LORD bless you today and encourage you to encourage others,

Nana & Dado III

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas