The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Proverbs 3:1-8, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments;
2 For length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.
3 Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your body and refreshment to your bones.”

Notice how the negatives in these verses precede enforcement of the positives. Notice also how the requirements always precede the rewards. It’s a divine pattern that always precedes life. It was true in Old Testament days, and it remains true today.

Each “no” in life precedes a “yes.” Parents cry “No!” to their children before they say “yes.” Eventually, however, teachings become more positive and overtake the negatives as the child grows and learns.

All of this naturally becomes the pattern in our spiritual lives. The Ten Commandments, although eternally existent, recede somewhat into the background, as the positives of the New Testament format and shape our lives into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

We must rejoice in the divine play our LORD has for us! And rejoice we will, as we grow to understand His plan for us! What a plan! What a life! What a Savior!

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