The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Galatians 5:19-26, “Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: 1 immorality, impurity, sensuality,

20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions,

21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

24 Now those who 1 belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

1. If we live by the Spirit, let us also 1 walk by the Spirit.

26 Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.”

It means everything is to start off correctly in a New Year! Admittedly, this presents a formidable challenge. The year is new, but you and I are not! Some (if not all) of the challenges we encountered in past years are again ready to challenge us in A.D. 2026.

If past years are anything to be considered (and they are!), we must either engage new or find better means of combating the enemy of the past. It is foolhardy to think we can overcome new obstacles unless we have previously experienced some victories over them.

Please know that it is not the intention of this writer to imply that the 15 or more negatives noted in the verses above are currently present and knocking on the virtual door of those who are receiving this letter. Nor does this writer possess any knowledge of the attempts, present or future, that will consistently pound on the door of your heart at any given time. All he knows is what he himself experiences and that the LORD is herewith warning every reader that such invasions will attack, and often with a vengeance!

Our only protection comes from the LORD through His Holy Word and from our consistent faithfulness each day with Him in prayer. Let us start 2026 with faithful dedication and living in the Spirit. God bless you abundantly as we commence this New Year!

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

“We will never know that Christ is all we need,

Until He becomes all that we have.” –Corrie ten Boom