The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

2 Peter 3:15b-18, “…our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you,

16 as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.

17 You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard lest, being carried away by the error of unprincipled men, you fall from your own steadfastness,

18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

In most of these letters, I have been urging you to talk to others about the LORD Jesus Christ. If we were engaged in a two-way talking session, I could hear you say, But, I don’t know really what to say. I know we have the Scriptures, but there are some things in the Bible I just don’t understand. Well, you’re not alone. Did you notice that Peter said of Paul that wisdom was given to him; and, also, that there are things in his writings that are difficult to understand? See, in both cases, you’re not alone.

Wisdom differs from understanding in that wisdom is knowing when and how much to say. Understanding is knowing what the Bible message is and being able to explain to others what you know. I realize that it’s easier for me to write and encourage you to talk to others (many in your workplace) about Jesus, than it is for you to do the talking to them. But, the LORD put you where you are primarily to be a witness for Him!

At the same time, living in the Word daily and yielding to the Holy Spirit’s leadership will provide you with the “ammunition” you need to be His witness. “Be on guard” because you will encounter some, who are ready to deny what you are going to tell them. You’re not alone. Jesus had the scribes and chief priests (the intelligentia of that day) resist his teachings. Also, the lack of preparation on your part could you to “fall from your own steadfastness.” Don’t trust yourself; trust the LORD!!

Finally, “grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.” HE is what it’s all about! So, do all that you do for His glory, right up to the day of eternity. He will bless you exceedingly. Just remember: you are there where you live and work to share His Message of salvation, showing His Love. We want to see people saved, but it doesn’t always occur at the time we would like. Just be courageous and faithful. Leave the “timing” to the LORD! I am praying for you!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”