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Acts 11:15 -17 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. ¹⁶ Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. ¹⁷ Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? ¹⁸ When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Experience Matters

The want ad read, “Mechanic Needed. Knowledge of general engine repair, starting systems, exhaust systems, and electrical systems. Experience wanted.” The employer was stating that he had good job for someone, but they had to have previous experience in doing the work. Mr. Jeff Fluhr, president of a new method of hiring, (video conferencing with applicants), believes experience is over-rated. He was also CEO of the highly successful internet ticket selling web-sight – Stub-hub. He believes that many more important factors of the job applicant are important. For example, he likes to hire inexperienced people who have qualities that are successful in any job settings for instance those who promote good team chemistry, have a likeable personality, display a high level of optimism, display a above-average creativity, and/or show great intellect. These intangibles are far more valuable, in his opinion, than previous experience in the field. Yet, other experts disagree on the wealth of previous experience.

Luke in his authoring of the early church clearly displays that Peter relayed based on his previous experience that the Gentiles too had experienced the same thing that the early founding fathers of the church had. He repeats the phrase “as on us”, or “the like gift as he did unto us”.  The early disciples knew Peter understood what had happened to all of them in the beginning and were confident that he was a ready expert as to the Gentiles experience.  Because of that like experience, the early church then had credible evidence that God was pouring out the same things that they had experienced. Their confidence swelled, and misgivings fell away immediately.

When does experience matter? Malcolm Gladwell, author of Outliers, a book on employment, states it matters in three key areas. First, it when an expert is needed, the rule of ten thousand applies. Experts are not newbies, but rather people who have had the same experience ten thousand times. One should have greater confidence in Jesus, because the evidence is overwhelming. Especially in this area. Paul in Romans 4:21 states “And being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was also able to perform.” If one has been around the people of God, they are giving the personal experience of a God who regularly, faithfully, and dutifully demonstrates His experience of creating solutions, demonstrating His power, and solving one’s problems. Every day He raises the sun -up, puts the moon in the midnight sky, and spins the Earth about its axis. He daily feeds every wild animal, every fish, and controls the wind, the waves, the sea, and the rivers. The evidence of His experience matters.

Secondly, experience matters when one wants to predict the future. It serves as a roadmap what can take place from here forward. When someone has renovated a disheveled building, framed a new house, or restored order to a chaotic work environment, that life experience is a well from which a repeat performance can be demonstrated.  Paul explained that in 2 Corinthians 9:8, when he stated, “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work;” If God every healed one’s body, delivered one from difficult life dilemmas, or liberated one from unbreakable bondage, it gives us confidence, hope, and faith that He can do it again.

Lastly, experience matters, when it is personal.  One cares more intensely about experience when it’s your son or daughter, or your business, or your home.  Let someone else be the surgeons first surgery. Let some other client be the first court case if it means years in prison. Let some other mechanic fix the car, but when it’s my brakes, engine, or transmission, only the best, experienced mechanic will do. Our preference is clear when one’s interest are at stake. We want only experienced experts.

What is your problem, issue, or circumstance? Is it something God has fixed in the past?

 

In your personal life, what are the miracles, providence of God, or sufficiency of His power that you have seen?

 

How can you express greater confidence and faith that God can solve your personal situation?

Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.¹⁰ For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. KJV

The Blessing of Brotherhood

Brothers. They come in all shapes and sizes. It is always amazing that the same two parents can produce such a wide variety of personalities in one family. Dr. Kevin Leman in his world acclaimed book, The Birth Order Book, published first in 1982, describes the family dynamics that create diverse personalities between the first born, second born and third within a family. A fascinating study that is accurate by the observation of many observers of the human family. Solomon is his writing in Ecclesiastes describes how two unrelated people, can develop the brotherhood status despite no blood lineage. He is not alone in this understanding. Many groups of firefighters, policeman, soldiers, college fraternities and various assembly of people speak of brotherhood, family, and various announcements of bonds that have been forged by the sufferings, and victories on life. Some single purpose, and live event that has so forged two people together, the dynamic of brotherhood is invoked.

Solomon describes it quite simply. “Two are better than one.” Anyone who has ever walked the course of living and have experienced life’s curves and hills may quickly agree. Growing up in a home with seven brothers, I can tell you how true that is. Through the years, I have learned how valuable it is to have a trusted brother even as a defense of the another brother. As a young sibling at six years old, when I wanted to learn to swim with my brothers, they said I would have to learn like they did. Eager to join in to the obvious hijinks they were up to, I readily agreed. At my young age, I had not learned how to swim, but I knew I wanted to learn. My older brother, Jack, smiled and said, “Okay, here you go!”. He picked me up to begin my first swimming lesson. I trusted his strong young arms, my first mistake. I should have realized his method of teaching may include a few panicked bubbles. He quickly launched me into the canal that was located behind our country home. As I fluttered, spit, and sputtered, I hopeless sank with my young life flashing before my eyes. My other older brother, Brian, quickly came to my aid, bringing me up from the depths of the canal. I was sure at this point, it had to be hundreds of feet deep. While in truth, it was just barely deeper than my young sub-five-foot height, Brian’s help in a middle of my crises was a lifesaver. He was just what I needed. He rescued me in the nick of time. Through both of their efforts, I would soon accomplish my desire. Before the afternoon was over, I was kicking, floating, and swimming as we all kicked and splashed in the summer shade– laughing, splashing, and goofing off. With a brother, one can accomplish new things for our life.

Secondly, Solomon explains a second aspect. He has designed this life to be shared with others. Why? It magnifies its joys, and bears it sorrows. We hold each other up, and give each other strength. In the church, by partnering with another brother of like precious faith, we draw something from each other that opens our lives to new depths, new understandings, and new experiences. A second aspect of Solomon’s observation is that there is an exponential reward as two brothers partner together. One person’s strength, gains greater, more dynamic strength as we link hearts, heads, and arms. God was expressing this in Deuteronomy 32:30, when he said, “How could one chase a thousand, And two put ten thousand to flight, Unless their Rock had sold them, And the Lord had surrendered them?” NKJV The reward of laboring together is so much sweeter. When two brothers grab a hammer, a paint brush, or plan a children’s ministry project, the possibility of reward just ratcheted higher.

When I realize such, rich blessings, I must work to partner with my brother to build worthwhile life projects. Some projects are as simple as spreading the good news of the Gospel. When I stand with a brother of faith, and knock on the door of a stranger, it gives me greater hope of the outcome of each visit. “Who’s there?” a question rings out from behind the closed door. I look over at my brother, smile, and say, “The church.” As we cross the threshold to visit a shut-in, or to bring cheer to someone experiencing sickness, we have a greater possibility of reward. God helps us to accomplish more together by including others, a brother, and with each other make lasting change.

 

1. Who is a person that you would call “a brother?
2. What does the relationship dynamic bring to your life?
3. What can you do, if you partner with someone this week, that will advance the Kingdom of God?

I Corinthian 9:24-25

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. ²⁵ And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. KJV

Every generation has a similar struggle, when it comes to investments. What can I put my money into that will produce a nice nest egg when I get ready to retire?  Some choose life insurance, stocks and/or bonds, while others choose gold, silver, or diamonds. Some choose buildings, land, and/or businesses.  Each individual gets to make individual chooses that can make a long term impact on resources later in life. From the time one is twenty, to the time one is sixty-five, often the financial choices one makes can impact the quality of life, as well as the quantity of saving one has to use. Compound it with years when family is young,  or financial valleys or troughs occur, the choices can swing wildly. Of the many regrets that come with the senior seasons, is lost opportunity. For example, if in 1971, a 20-year-old person saves $20 a week ($1,040) a year, by the time they reach 65 in 2016, they will have saved $46,800 in principal. What compounds that savings though is the interest and/or dividends they receive through the years. For example, a savings interest of 1%, would yield $58,740 in the savings account.  A life insurance policy yielding 6% would yield, a value of $221,253. A stock fund, that averages 13%, would produce a whopping $1,949,131.  The power of interest overtime produces regular substantial outcomes. Unfortunately, most 20-year-olds, don’t put twenty dollars a week into an investment plan. In fact, the United States savings rate, has been in steady decline for decades. In 1959, it was 11.8% of personal income.  As of August of 2016, it was closer to 5.7% of disposable income. In fact, some economists who worry of the future, see due to student debt, credit card debt, mortgage debt, car debt, and regular consumer debt, the rate might be closer to 1% or even negative.

When Jesus spoke to His disciples, He spoke of a different kind of long term savings program. It was a life-long investing in the kingdom of Heaven. In Matthew 6: 19-21. He stated, ^“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” That unfading crown was what Paul was speaking of, when called for incorruptible crown. In another section of Scripture, another disciple, Peter, said each believer should pursue an unfading crown.  “And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” (KJV I Peter 5:4).  So how does that work?  How do we lay up treasures in Heaven? What does Heaven treasure? As part of one’s life regular assignment, one should be steadily, day by day, and year after year invest in heavenly treasure. If man can compound the interest and turn twenty dollars a week into $1,949,131, what can God do with a life time of giving?

Heaven has a value system that is so far different that our worlds. Heaven values obedience, righteousness, peace, and loving God. When one treasure activities that fulfill those principals, one can lay up Kingdom blessings. For example, in Revelation 5:8, 8:3-4, God stored up Saints prayers. Someplace, God has storerooms full of the Church’s prayers for children, parents, missionaries, pastors, and needs of brothers and sisters. Also, Heaven stores up tears, David spoke tears in a bottle of in Psalm 56:8.  When one considers of the shared tears of joy and sorrows over a lifetime, how big is that bottle? Included in a collection of Heaven’s treasure are the acts that are meant to relieve the suffering of those one meets in life. Jesus said, in Mark 9:41, “ For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.”  Every Christian should start a Heavenly savings program. It’s a crown that will not fade away.

• What are you personally investing in that reflects a “heavenly” savings program?
• How can I pray daily that would be worthy of God saving my prayers?
• What acts can I do, like a cup of water, to a child, an apostle, or to a fellow saint, that God would take notice of?

 

 

When I was in college, in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1981, I was required to take a class, that has changed my life. It was called Prayer Principals taught by Mrs. Virgina Foster. Mrs. Foster was a quiet, lovely lady, who daily displayed Christian virtue in so many inspiring ways.  Her brother, President of the College had given her a difficult class to teach to over 300 students who already “thought” they knew everything about prayer and devotional already in their young lives. Week by week, Mrs. Foster began to uncover our woeful deficiencies with her self-deprecating humor and firm requirements for daily devotion and prayer. The principals she revealed through the Holy Spirit altered the way I thought of myself, my God, and my faith. May the thoughts that Scripture brings to your mind, do the same for you.

Greg W. Davis, Author

Day 18 – What I am thankful for:

My older brother Charles P. Davis:  With growing up in a family of nine kids, each sibling is uniquely special.  I would say Charles is unique for many, different reasons. One is that he has overcome hardships in his life with great success. When he moved out of the house at age 19, he did it because he felt it was the mature thing to do. Despite working a low paying job, he found a way to make life work. He rented a small apartment and struggled to make rent, but he survived on loaves of bread and jars of peanut butter. He has long left those days financially, but they have never left his memory.  He knows how to stretch a dime. He has worked hard all his life to achieve his dreams, goals, and ambitions. He doesn’t mind – saving money by doing things that others have long left behind. He climbs underneath his cars and changes his own oil. He roofs his own house, and built building on his land.  When he wanted to move out of the trailer, with his young family, while living in Spencer, IN. He bought five acres of land in a wooded area outside the city. He then designed, built, and paid off his home. Charles is known for his thoughtful analysis of life, and what it takes to get to where he wants life to go. He takes his time to read, ask questions, and seek advice from others.  He has also accomplished much by being a minister/ leader in his local church, preaching the gospel on overseas missionary trips, and ministering to people and churches  in Indiana who need training and instruction. He is a gifted teacher and preacher. He married Julies’ college room-mate, Mona Rae Bault, and have raised two incredible kids, Jonathon, and Andrea. Even though miles have separated us, he has found ways to stay connected. I can tell hundreds of stories about late-night conversations, goofy hi-jinxes that left both of us laughing uncontrollably, and enjoying life. He makes me a better person.  I also admire his tenacity, toughness, and perseverance.  I am thankful God gifted him to our family.  I appreciate my older brother, Charles! Do you have sibling that has blessed your life?

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Over the first 23 days of November, I, want to express appreciation for people, things, and blessings in my life that I enjoy. I am reminded of the early pilgrims who survived a horrid winter on five kernels of corn a day. Each day’s allotment helped them through that difficult time. What are you thankful for?

Days 1- 6: God, Chosen Generation, my home, chocolate cake, Charles Simpson., my church family

Days 7-12 My job, Dr. Thakker, Dawn Davis, Robert and Joann Bailey, Heritage of Truth, my bass

Days 13- 18 Ed and Debbie Chesser, Water, My Family, Chloe, Jeffrey Sanders, Charles Davis

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Day 17 – What I am thankful for:

Good long-time friends like Jeffrey C. Sanders: Did you ever have someone who just impresses you how they handle life? I’ve known Jeff through several stages of his life, and he is impressive.  He knows how to live and work in tough times. When he was some young nobody from Rockford, raised in the Silver Hill Pentecostal Church, before he became a nationally known evangelist and pastor, we struck up a friendship.  Approximately, the same age, I’ve watched him make career moves, shift into new areas of ministry, and be successful on many levels. Highly respected among his peers, and those he ministers to, he and his lovely wife Valerie, have successfully raised their four children to be achievers in ministry and in the church. Never afraid to take on a second job, or toil late in the night with a family in need.  He is just inspiring. He has stayed loyal to the Truth, holiness, and the Apostolic faith. He has shown how to live life and be a success by tackling challenges– starting a church in Chicago, being a respected church leader, or becoming a successful evangelist (affectionately called “The Stomp”. That’s another story. He traveled for seven years and made a good living at it.)

He has helped his children make tough decisions, and held their hearts and hands as they have experienced despair.  He now pastors in Orangefield, Texas. We share a number of common loves – the Cubs, good BBQ ribs, and the Kingdom of God. We don’t see him near as much as we’d like, We love him and his family. I am thankful God gifted him into my life. Do you have a lifelong treasured friend, like Jeff? What do you like about them?

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Day 16 – What I am thankful for:

Our family dog – Chloe Marley Davis.   Growing up, I can point to few times we had a family pets. Usually, it was a stray cat that would take up residence around our home.  Dad and Mom didn’t want another mouth to feed besides the 9 kids, and stray humans, someone was bringing to the dinner table.  As we would wander the neighborhood, invariably, a small animal would be found.  When we lived on Fourth St in Ottawa, IL, in the 70’s, the house had a small barn on the property. A few regular pets of the Davis children were known to stop by. The barn was more of a truck stop, if you will, for strays. Yet would put out water, food, and an occasional bowl of milk. When my children were little, they begged Julie and I for dog.  At the time, I remember thinking, “At least, it is not a cat.” (Okay, so I am not a “Cat” guy. I can tolerate them, but they are too independent for me.) We tried to get their minds off the idea with goldfish, and other pets, but in the end, they wanted a dog. So, over the years, we’ve enjoyed some lovely dogs, Rocky, a Pomeranian, Princess (a King Charles Spaniel), and now Chloe (Bishon-Cocker Spaniel Mix).  What I am thankful about, is her company. She’s known to greet me as I walk through the door, dancing on her two back legs excited to see you. She does it just about every day.  After days of dealing with fickle people who change their loyalties like the wind that blows, she’s a genuine treat. While sitting on the couch or easy chair reading, she will quietly lay close, for hours.  She fiercely defends the house from the strangers who walk on the sidewalk, the Canadian geese that wander by, or the local picture-takers who stop at our next door “Covered Bridge”.  She’s queen of the castle who has the family firmly wrapped around her paw, and I am grateful she’s in my life. Do you have a family pet (feel free to share a picture)?

 

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Day 15 – What I am thankful for:

My Family.  As one man put, “I am thankful for my in-laws and out-laws.”  Family, both immediate, and extended take all kinds of shapes, sizes, and experiences.  God chose my siblings, and part of accepting God’s will in my life, is to accept each of them, unconditionally.  That is not hard to do when the Davis clan gathers together. My brothers, and sister, nieces, or nephews, cousins, aunts or uncles, when they assemble whether in a house, a restaurant, or in some other place of gathering, always produces laughter, love, and yes, a few moments of drama – from time to time. What family doesn’t?  Some live here in Illinois, some in Utah, some in Indiana, some in Wisconsin, and one even got as far as South Carolina. Furthermore, it is quite amazing that I survived my childhood. Between my siblings, and my cousins, we were a handful. Oh, the stories that have occurred over the years.  From the time we were little, Dad and Mom had to be watchful. More than once, they would load us up in a station wagon, and off we’d go. I know of a few occasions, when after a quick head count, they’d return back– to the gas station to pick up the one that had wandered off.  As I see my nieces, and nephews, themselves now with children, spread all through out the United States, I realize how big the family has become. I am grateful God has placed them in my life. I appreciate them all.  Do you appreciate your family?

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Day 14 – What I am thankful for:

Water: What would life be without water. I don’t need expensive water. I enjoy and am thankful for just water. I do like it with ice and even with lemon, but it can come from the tap. Those who have sat in a restaurant know I many times order it with a “wedge of lemon”. Everyday, I enjoy drinking 64 to 72 ounces of water. When I preach, I have water nearby. I appreciate all the things people like to drink – pop, coffee, kool-aide, shakes, malts, and various ways of drinks. I don’t mind just water. I enjoy a good cup of coffee. I enjoy a glass of 1% milk with a chocolate chip cookie. By and large though, a glass of water does me right. What is your casual drink of choice?

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Day 13 – What I am thankful for:

Ed and Debbie Chesser: I’ve known the two of them through thick, and thin —and thicker, then thin, then thick again, and now thin again.  Well –you get the picture. He’s my pseudo-hero as well as friend. He has finally achieved normality in his weight loss.  That gives me hope. I am truly thankful for the both them.  I’m glad they have a voice in my life.  Meeting them at an early age, we have many treasured memories from the days of their pastorate in Pontiac, IL to recent years. The Chessers spent the week-end in DeKalb, and we have all been blessed. First by their friendship, and second by ministry, both in music and preaching.  For over 35 years, I have known these two they have been encouraging voices. I have observed them walk through difficult valleys that could have been overwhelming from life troubles, financial woes, health concerns, and great losses of people in their lives. They find a way to stay happy and encouraging.  They exude strength and vitality. Although they live far away in Grapevine, TX, they work hard at maintaining contact. I appreciate them for their love, laughter, and friendship.   Do you have a close friend that makes your life better?

 

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Day 12 – What I am thankful for:
My Bass.  It is a 2006 Fender Jazz V.  It is amazing how the simple events of life bring us pleasure.  I started playing bass in high school.  My instructor that I needed to advance from 1-2-3-5 to Frankie Sullivan (Survivor Band’s, Eye of the Tiger).  When I told him I wanted to play  gospel and jazz style, he looked at me dumbfounded. His eyes read, “Who would want to do that?”.  Through the years since then, I haven’t always played the bass publicly.  Sometimes it was more out of convenience than intimidation. Although, we have had some lead musician’s, who could intimidate the best of bass players.  When the church had to get one to the last bass players in 2006, I knew I would have to dust off patterns, and start playing publicly again.  There are many things in life, I feel successful doing –accounting, preaching, mathematics, or balancing a check book. Playing the bass is not one of them.  It is not a question of knowledge.  Many people don’t realize I have a minor in music from college.  The reason I love playing the bass is it is a continual world of learning for me.  I can go from a song that I am killing it, to a chorus that I feel like I have toes for fingers, and a smooth sound like a freight train.  I love a good bass line. I have had a number of teachers, and training sessions with good bass players.  Life is fun when making good music. I’ve had fellow musicians who have praised my skills, and others who roll their eyes and put their fingers in their ears.  On this Day 12, I am thankful for my bass.

_ Over the first 23 days of November, I, want to express appreciation for people, things, and blessings in my life that I enjoy. I am reminded of the early pilgrims who survived a horrid winter on five kernels of corn a day. Each day’s allotment helped them through that difficult time. What are you thankful for?

Days 1- 6: God, Chosen Generation, my home, chocolate cake, Charles Simpson., my church family

Days 7-12 My job, Dr. Thakker, Dawn Davis, Robert and Joann Bailey, Heritage of Truth, my bass

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Day 11 – What I am thankful for:

Heritage of Truth: I am truly appreciative that I have experienced the Apostolic Pentecostal gospel.  By all odds, when my Grandpa, Edgar Davis, 35, died an early tragic death, 82 years ago, his experiences as an early Pentecostal preacher from Missouri, should have perished with him. My father, 2 months old, then grew up, his mother re-marrying, without that legacy active in his life.  What would change the destiny of my life, 36 years later, was the courageous decision of a 31-year-old, John G. Nordstrom.  He would start a church in Ottawa, IL, in 1971. He was battling against renal failure, but he started a church anyway.  He and his family, would start the first Christmas for Christ church in Illinois.  That decision, would impact my 11-year old life and restore a heritage of truth lost in my family.  I was brought to Sunday School on a red and white bus, that had signage that read, “Fly the United Way” They would feed me donuts and orange juice along the way.  I was taught by my Sunday School teachers, Phyliss Nordstrom, and Doreen Bozeman, what it took to be saved. Filled with the Holy Ghost in 1975, I would experience the heritage of truth for myself.   My young life would be filled with tremendous Christians who lived, loved, and shared this gospel with me and others.   I would continue that legacy in 1992, when Julie and I, moved to DeKalb, IL to begin the local church.  Every day, I am thankful, for courageous people in my life, who invested in me that wonderful truth. I continue to pass it on to others, hopeful it will alter their life as well.

     

 

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Day 10 – What I am thankful for:

Rev. Robert and Joann Bailey.  In living life, God gives you cherished people, Rev. Robert Bailey and his family is one of those cherished gifts and I thank God for them.  Although, he precedes me by a couple of years, his hard work, dedication to ministry, and friendship have made an indelible impression on my life.  I am thankful in life to have not only a mentor, but a fellow worker who shows me how to navigate the difficult stages of life. Now retired from active pastoring, he travels the country putting miles on his vehicle, blessing congregations and lives in his non-profit work, Spirit and Truth Ministries. We have spent around 20 years of District work together, conducting camps, meeting with the finest of ministry in Illinois, raising funds, building visions and dreams, and seeing over 1,000 plus children receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost.  Like many through the years, I have been the recipient of 100’s of well-cooked meals by Sis. Bailey, and her amazing tuna croissants and desserts, I have literally spent hours of enjoyable conversations with both.   Bro. Bailey and I, have sometimes toiled late into the wee hours of the morning, solving the world’s problems (if only they would ask us.) over a hot cup of coffee. Only, to arrive at an early morning staff meeting a few minutes later, after a quick shower, ready to start afresh on a new day. (I think I am still trying to catch up on my sleep from those years.) He also is a very successful businessman who runs our Belvidere tax office well.  I know he is not perfect, but I have watched him make incredible decisions, outstanding moves to bring in the power of God in a service or altar call, and motivate others to sacrifice for the cause of children.  He’s humble and self-deprecating. And I appreciate him.  Any of you have a cherished person in your life, like Pastor and Sis. Bailey?

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Day 9 – What I am thankful for:
My Daughter Dawn.  Dawn came to us 18 years ago at the age of 4.  I’ve watch her grow, develop an identity, and become a young adult. She has learned to make her own choices, her own goals, and her own way in life. She, like most people her age, is still discovering who they are and what they value.  Over the years, she has done so many things that have made both Julie and I proud as parents, her leadership, her teaching ability, and her academic skills (all except her battle with Algebra she will tell you).  Furthermore, I’d be less than honest if I didn’t say, her independence has also been a challenge to her as well as us. There are many things I appreciate many things about Dawn.  She can be sensitive, caring, and compassionate. Her heart can melt like butter when she sees a need. She has been gifted by God to be caring and thoughtful of others. She has a definite tenacity that fights for what she believes in. She is willing to take some risks that I never would.  I appreciate her willingness to change her mind when she finally grasps her ideas and values.  She also, has overcome adversity. Life at an early age had some pretty big challenges for a four-year-old. It has produced some lasting dents in her armor, but she works hard to be a responsible grown up gal. Many weeks she works over 40 hours and loves her job at Ideal Industries. I pray for her daily.  Today, we are having an early lunch at Panera Bread. I appreciate God has gifted her to Julie and I.

 

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Day 8 – What I am thankful for:
My Doctor and his staff.  Dhaval N Thakker, MD.  I first met Dr. Thakker, because he was my wife’s main physician, and my primary care Doctor had unexpectedly passed away at a young age.  It is disconcerting, when the person who helps you stay healthy for many years unexpectedly dies. At the time, I was stunned. “Wait, you are can’t do that”, I thought, Then, I realized my previous Doctor would spend a few minutes on medicine, and about 10-15 on tax counsel and laws.  That is not what I need a doctor for.  In his life’s work at DeKalb Clinic, Dr. Thakker, was willing to take me as a patient, and I am very glad for that. He is a kind, compassionate, and through physician.  He also can be brutally honest, and straight forward. When he speaks, I listen. In my many roles, I am the one dispensing advice, telling others how to act, and discussing actions to take. As my physician, he takes an authoritative role in my life, and I appreciate his thoughtfulness. He shares his in-depth medical knowledge and reminds of the importance of getting things necessary in my life like diet, exercise, and self-control.  I don’t always like what he has to say, but it is always for my good. I like making him happy.  His office nursing staff, Molly B is cheerful, hard-working, and dedicated. She’s always upbeat and positive. I see them both regularly for help with my health needs and they have produced many positive changes. I appreciate them both.

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Day 7 – What I am thankful for:

 My job. I went to work for Mason Properties in October 1993. The principals of Mason Properties, Jim and Linda Mason, have been great people to work for. They have a great family that work hard and are respected by many people. Over the years, we have watched the company grow, purchase more property, and make more people happy. Currently, I serve as a controller, and CPA, that oversees over 900 apartments and 25 Business condos in the form of 34 separate companies. The staff in the office and in the field, have been tremendous to work with over the years. I am appreciative that we can all partner together to see the business grow, adapt, and be successful. On any given day, my door may swing open, or the phone may ring, or the email come into my inbox that require skillsets that tap our total team. Challenges always abound. Yet, I am thankful and appreciative of the week in and week out challenges, opportunities, and strengths that a company like Mason Properties have. Do you enjoy your job?

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Day 6 – What I am thankful for:
My Church Family – They come in all sizes and shapes.  Some of them are young– really infants held in their mother’s hands, and others have been around over 70 years. Majority of them are not blood related.  Yet, it doesn’t feel that way. Some of them have been around since the early days, 25 years ago– when it was just Julie and I.  Others, just were baptized in Jesus name a few weeks ago.  They make me laugh and at times cry.  They come week after week enjoying the programs, and participating in the various activities of the church.  Many have no extraordinary abilities, talents, and skills – other than loving others, giving themselves to Jesus, and attempting to live for Him with all their hearts.  I appreciate them because they are gifts to me and my family. God has placed them one by one in our lives. When due to life, some move to other geographical locations, we continue to love them – from a far. Some have been called upon to advance the Kingdom – starting churches, pastoring works, evangelizing, and being a blessing.  The United Pentecostal Church of DeKalb continues to be all over the world.  One day, up in Heaven, we’ll all be together.  I rejoice in anticipation. I am thankful for my church family.

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Day 5 – What I am Thankful for:

Charles Simpson.  I first met Charles and his wife, Carol, over 10 years ago.  A senior citizen, now retired, he spends his days and nights helping people. He and his wife celebrated 50 years of marriage with his son, and daughter in October.  He can be seen at the church mowing a lawn, or plowing snow.  I am thankful for Charles for so many reasons. His helpful spirit is such a blessing to others. He and his truck can be seen around helping folks lift, carry, and move heavy burdens. I want to be able to do that too. God has placed Charles in my life to help me and my family. We are not related, but he is a gift God has given us. Whether a friendly smile, a thoughtful gesture, or his hard work when no-one else is around, I am thankful for him. Is there someone in your life like Charles?

Over the first 23 days of November, I, want to express appreciation for people, things, and blessings in my life that I enjoy. I am reminded of the early pilgrims who survived a horrid winter on five kernels of corn a day. Each day’s allotment helped them through that difficult time. What are you thankful for?

Day 1- 5: God, Chosen Generation, my home, chocolate cake, Charles Simpson.

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Day 4 – What I am Thankful for.

Chocolate Cake.  There are some things in life, I’m thankful exist. Chocolate Cake is one of them. As the song goes, “God is great because He gave us chocolate cake.” For years, I would say my favorite dessert was “Pineapple Upside down Cake”.  It was and is one I still enjoy from time to time. In reality, I’ve believe chocolate cake is the best!  Why? It’s everywhere. Very few places in life can one order Pineapple Upside down Cake.  Many places, one can get chocolate cake. It is rare to find a baker who can whip up a Pineapple Upside down cake. Yet, I can almost guarantee even the-most-beginning baker, can fashion one of the chocolate variety. Hmm?  I wonder if the early pilgrims had it at the first Thanksgiving? I’ve even learned to request it in more than one language.  Toma un café con un trozo de tarta de chocolate. (Spanish: I will have coffee with a piece of chocolate cake.) Anyone else thankful for chocolate cake?

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Day 3 – What I am Thankful for..

My home.  I didn’t want to buy it. I was comfortable in our other house. Yet, three women, and one bathroom was not enough bathroom.  My wife found the house and financially it made a lot of sense. Since moving in, I have enjoyed the peaceful neighborhood, and the lovely pond with the Canadian geese. It is the little things that I have found I appreciate. Parking my car in the garage so I don’t have to scrape ice during the winter. Hardwood floors that glisten, and skylights that pour in the Sun’s light. I’m sure some point before I retire, I might move into something smaller, but where will the grand kids of the future stay?  I am thankful for my home!

Day 2 -Things I am Thankful for…

Youth Group Chosen Generation. They range from ages 12 to 18. We see them every Sunday Morning, Wednesday Night, lately on Sunday Nights too. Most of them don’t attend with parents, but come alone. They come out of sheer, personal desire. Led by Maurice and Sam McDavid, they get special training, have fun activities, and are taught personal discipleship. God is working in them.

I’m proud of them.

10 years from now, I fully see them still here as fully functioning, model saints of God.

  

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As we enter into November, I want to take some time each day to express my thankfulness. I plan over the next 23 days, to daily express appreciation for people, things, and blessings in my life that I enjoy. I am reminded of the early pilgrims who survived a horrid winter on five kernels of corn a day. Each day’s allotment helped them through that difficult time. I hope I can get it done. Along the way, you may discover things about me, and my life or people that I have a connection with. Some thoughts will be brief, and others more detailed. Perhaps, you’ll find some blessing during the next 23 days.

Day 1, I would be remiss, if I wasn’t thankful for God in my life. When I was 12 years old, I experienced Him in the fullness of His love and goodness. I genuinely feel some people have never had such good fortune, (although not that He doesn’t want it that way.) Everyday since then, I have attempted to talk to Him, and get to know Him better. 43 years later, I can tell you, how much I appreciate Him. I love how He connects to me, with me, and about me. He does things that make me laugh, and things that brings tears. Despite my failings, and life’s ups and downs, He has been one consistent theme. Some days, I feel His favor, and others, I know I haven’t measured up. Yet, daily, I experience His love, truth, and presence. Anybody else, appreciate God?

Welcome!  Enjoy a few thoughts that come from pictures.

GWD