With a voice of
congratulations, a word of praise, a tear of joy for you, and a shining star of
hope,
we extend the thoughts of this article.
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Years of work and
accomplishment have come and gone, at times with hardly a notice! But
here it is! The time parents and young people have looked toward with
anticipation. We wanted the goal for you, but with a tinge of sadness it
has come and we are proud of your perseverance. The finality of this
part of your preparation has made the difficulties that were encountered
along the road all worthwhile!
The church of Christ has been an intrinsic part of your lives. By God’s
inspired word, it has taught you to realize you will not be tempted
above what you are able to bear (I Cor.
10:13). That the Lord’s
teaching, believed and received into your hearts, sustains you in times
of indecision and helps you in the solution of your problems (I Pet.
5:7). It has taught you honesty and integrity that the world so needs
today: Telling the truth is better than lies; keeping your word will be
approved wherever you may go; paying the debts will make you right in
the sight of God and man; not taking that which belongs to others, even
their good name, is the way to live; and being fair in our dealings with
others will give us many happy days. Purity and maturity are continual
goals of those who would live godly in Christ Jesus
(II Tim.
3:12). |
But the Lord’s church should be the center of our lives! That which
Christ built and gave His blood to purchase is of more value than any
possession of earth or accomplishment in life. To be upright in the
sight of man is important...but to be right before God is a million
times more important! Jesus said, "For
what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his
own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"
(Matt.
16:26).
While living the Christian life, decisions come much
easier; What job shall I take? Who shall be my associates? Who shall I
marry? And, on and on we could go. "Let us
hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his
commandments: for this is the whole duty of man"
(Ecc.
12:13).
We are all proud of you! We want the best for
you! All that now stands between you and the top of the ladder is the
ladder! Place your foot on each step with care and "Go forth to
life." |
-- Gary Colley, June 2000 --
GNFY is published under the oversight of the
Alkire Rd Church of Christ elders, 2779 Alkire Road, Grove City, Ohio, 43123.
Please feel
free to reproduce as is. No changes may be made without permission.
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Editor:
Mark Bass, Minister, mebass1957@aol.com,
(614) 875-1028
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Youth
Leader: John Justus, (614) 274-9563
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