Tag: Christian Living

The BIBLE VIEW #1048 — Church

In This Issue:
Family Time
Back Seat Problem
What My Absence in Church Did
Upper or Supper Room?
The Devil’s Tactics in Today’s Church

Volume: 1048   May 10, 2026
Theme: Church

Family Time
Bill Brinkworth

As Paul concluded his letter to the Roman church in Romans 16, the preacher spent the whole chapter remembering Christians he knew in the ministry.  He named 28 individuals and remarked on what they had meant to him, or how they had been useful in the ministry.  

Those believers were more than acquaintances to him. The people in the church were close to his heart.

Going to church for us should also be more than just nodding at people as they pass us in the aisle or shaking their hands as we see them in Sunday school.  Church is where those of like faith and beliefs gather.  

Church should be a place removed from the world, where we can be with our own kind — Christians. In that place, we are no longer a “peculiar” people as the unsaved see us.  In that fellowship, we are with others who share our beliefs.  We are with members of the family of God.

Church is a place where some hear the Gospel for the first time and get saved. It should be a place where the Bible is taught, and people learn more about God’s Word. 

In church, Christians can hear what the Lord has laid on the under shepherd’s heart, and learn how they can be better Christians.  It is a place where people can be burdened for needs they see or hear about and can get involved in a ministry themselves.

The church is also a place where we are among those of like faith.  I know I cannot speak for all churches, as too many have too much of the world in them, but church should be a place where we can be far from godless living and closer to God.  

In church, we can be encouraged by other Christians. All week, we are swimming against the current of the world. It can spiritually tire us. 

Being around other believers can reward us with advice, encouragement, and even with seeing how other Christians handle their problems, so we can run our own spiritual race successfully.

Those Christians who are not faithful in church attendance miss the help and encouragement of being around their own kind.  It is not just the preaching, teaching, church dinners, and special events that we need.  We need to feel, for the time we are with others of like faith, that we are not alone in this world. 

We need to know there are others like us.  No wonder Paul addressed many individually.  They were important to him because they were part of his spiritual family — the family of God.

“Going to church is family time.”  — Charles W. Tobey

Back Seat Problem
Author Unknown

“I wonder,” said good Parson Jones
With a little troubled frown,
“If there is any way to get
You folks seated farther down?

“You see I have to talk across
So many empty pews,
Before my voice can reach the back,
I fear my point you lose.

“And then I feel so lonesome,
Way up here and you clear back there,
It’s hard to feel you’re with me
When I come to God in prayer.

“I wonder if you folks are scared
Of what I’m going to preach
That you hurry so to park
In the fartherest back seat?

“Or do you fear the church some day
Will suddenly catch afire?
Or do you want to slip out quick
If of my subject you tire?

“I wish you’d come up closer
So I wouldn’t have to shout;
If you don’t, I’m going to have
Those back seats taken out!”

“A lot of church members who are singing ‘Standing on the Promises’ are actually just sitting on the premises.”  — Author Unknown

What My Absence in Church Did
Author Unknown

  • It made some question the reality of Christianity.
  • It made some think that I was a pretender.
  • It made many regard my spiritual welfare and that of others as a matter of small concern.
  • It weakened the effect of the church service.
  • It made it more difficult for the preacher to preach.
  • It discouraged the brethren, and therefore robbed them of a blessing.
  • It caused others to stay away from church.
  • It made it harder for me to meet the temptations I faced this week.
  • It gave me a poor Christian testimony with those that know I am a Christian.
  • It gave the Devil more power over lost souls.
  • It encouraged the bad habit of non-church going.

“God wants full custody of His children, not just Sunday visiting rights.”
— Author Unknown

Upper or Supper Room?
Author Unknown

The early church prayed in the upper room.  Today’s church cooks in the supper room.  Today the supper room, or the church kitchen, has taken the place of the “upper room”.

Play has taken the place of prayer, and feasting has taken the place of fasting.  There are more full stomachs than there are bended knees and broken hearts.  There is more fire in the range in the kitchen, than there is in the pulpit. 

When you build a fire in the church kitchen and the smells permeate the building, it often puts out the fire in the pulpit.  Ice cream awaiting to be eaten chills the fervor of spiritual life.

The early Christians were not cooking in the supper room the day the Holy Ghost came.  They were praying in the upper room.  They were not waiting on tables.  They were waiting on God. 

They were not waiting for the fire from the stove, but for the fire from above.  They were detained by the command of God, and not entertained by the cunning of men.  They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, not stuffed with a stew or roast.

Oh, I would like the cooking crew put out, and the praying band put in.  We need less ham and sham, and more Heaven; less pie, and more piety; less use for the cookbook, and more use for the old Book. 

Put out the fire in the kitchen and build it on the altar; more love and more life; fewer dinners and getting more sinners in the church.  Let us have a church full of waiters on God, and a church full of servers, serving God.

“The church is to feed the sheep, not to entertain the goats!”  — A. W. Tozer

The Devil’s Tactics in Today’s Church
J. Vernon McGee

When the Devil saw that persecution would not stop the church, he changed to a different tactic.  He joined the church.  He began to hurt the church from the inside. 

Satan still does that today.  He attacks the validity of the Word of God, and he tries to discredit the Gospel.  If that doesn’t work, he tries to discredit the man who preaches the Gospel. 

“The Christian church is a society of sinners.  It is the only society in the world in which membership is based upon the single qualification that the candidate shall be unworthy of membership.” — Morrison

The BIBLE VIEW #1042 — Lying

In This Issue:
Liar!  Liar!  Your Testimony Is On Fire!
Lying Lips

Volume: 1042   March 30, 2026
Theme: Lying

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Liar!  Liar!  Your Testimony Is On Fire
Bill Brinkworth

Honesty is one of the most important glues that binds people together.  Without truth, trust between people cannot be achieved. 

Relationships most often will not last when dishonesty is involved.  Societies will fall apart, as the only remaining truthful source will be one’s own biased, often-changing opinion.

Unfortunately, taking one’s truthful word on a subject is a thing of the past for many.  It used to be that if someone gave their word on a matter, they would keep their commitment, no matter the consequences, but not anymore.

It is often discovered that a fellow worker’s promises mean little.  Friends, to avoid doing something, offer a fabricated excuse for not participating.  A “little white lie” is still a lie and can cause future distrust.

After watching the news, one is often shocked by the untruths that flow freely from leaders’ mouths.  A quick follow-up on what the person actually said is shown, and one’s apparent falsehood is made public.  Yet, there is no retraction; no apology, only further justification of one’s falsehood.  In too many situations, it seems the liar got away with their deceit and faced no repercussions.  Politicians caught in lies often get re-elected, and their untruths are forgotten and unpunished.

Actual footage of a lawbreaker’s crime shows that he was guilty of the crime for which he was accused.  However, the violator’s own words stick to an untruth, no matter what the evidence reveals.  Police have a difficult time determining what happened in an incident because many of those involved lie.

A wayward spouse insists that they were not unfaithful, even though it was apparent to all involved that it was a lie.  Children caught in the act of doing something they were not allowed to do, deny that they did it.  Proof again does not change their deceitfulness.

Liars are all about us.  We, too, must admit that we have lied at times.
“I said in my haste, All men are liars.” Psalm 116:11
“God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.” Romans 3:4

With the advent of artificial intelligence, pictures loaded on the internet show a political appointee in a compromising situation.  Most know it is not true, but some accept the dishonest picture as truth.  A seed of distrust may have been planted.

Others, if they realize it or not, slowly discover that nothing seen or said can be believed.  Mistrust spreads.  Society weakens and becomes desensitized to dishonesty. 

Dishonesty has always been a plague.  However, in my lifetime, it has never been so unleashed.  Society seems not to be that concerned, and at times has even allowed untruthfulness to be treated as entertainment.  Sometimes the heroes of a movie live lives of deceit but are still the “good guys.”

Lying was not always prevalent.  Satan was the starter and encourager of lying.
“Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do.  He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him.  When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44

However, Satan’s creator, God, is honest.  He can always be trusted.  God’s Word, found in the Bible, can also be relied on.  It is the Truth!
“That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:” Hebrews 6:18

God hates all sin, including lying.  For that, and many more reasons, we should strive to be honest!
“These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,” Proverbs 6:16
“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Proverbs 12:22

To have a relationship with God and others, one must place a high value on honesty.
“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24
“The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.” Psalm 145:18
“Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.” Joshua 24:14

To get along with others, truthfulness is needed.  That is why God demands we be honest.
“These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:” Zechariah 8:16 
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Yes, we are all sinners and liars by nature.  However, a child of God has a new nature.  Being born again can allow us to do all we can to please our God, and being honest is an important step in reaching that goal.  We can now make our words truthful and more reliable to others.  Our words can now have value!
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” Ephesians 4:25
“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:” Proverbs 3:3

“A liar is not believed even though he tells the truth.”  — Cicero

Lying Lips
Bill Brinkworth

From a young age, most know it is wrong to lie.  Perhaps it is an innate guilt or a learned “no-no” from reprimands from parents, friends, or teachers. 

The nonacceptance of untruths is universally frowned upon, or it used to be, and the bearer of falsehoods is often mistrusted and avoided.  One should learn quickly that dishonesty is not acceptable.

 A lie exposed has cost many future suspicions from friends, fellow workers, and casual and long-time acquaintances.  Because of discovered untruths, relationships have been shattered, jobs have been lost, and even jail time has been the penalty for many who lied. 

Lying lips have cost many much more than ever realized.   God also does not tolerate falsehoods and demands that people, especially Christians, be true to their word.

God’s Word, the Bible, has much to say and warn about untruths:

God and His Son, Jesus, are honest.  Since believers should be like our Saviour, Christ-like, we should also be truthful.
“That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:” Hebrews 6:18
“In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;” Titus 1:2

God hates untruths!
“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Proverbs 12:22

God commands us not to lie!
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.” Exodus 20:16
“My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” I John 3:18

Lies are often told because of pride.
“For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.” Psalm 59:12
“The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart.” Psalm 119:69

Liars twist and change God’s truths to enable them to do what they desire rather than what God commands.
“Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever.  Amen.” Romans 1:25 

Although usually our weak flesh succumbs to dishonesty, often people may be encouraged to lie by Satan’s influence.  Since an unsaved person does not typically heed God’s commandments, it may be easier to follow the leading of God’s and humanity’s enemy.
“Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do.  He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him.  When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 

God knows who is honest.
“The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.” II Corinthians 11:31

A good witness of a situation should tell the truth of what was seen, heard, or experienced.
“A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.” Proverb 14:5 Also: Exodus 23:1.
“A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.” Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.” Proverbs 21:28 

ALWAYS be honest.
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” Colossians 3:9
“Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.” Psalm 31:18 
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;” Ephesians 4:22-23
“Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.” Psalm 120:2

We can lie about anything, including being right with God.
“If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:” I John 1:6
“I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”  I John 2:21
“Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” Revelation  3:9

Because of the rejection of God’s will and way, our world has become one of dishonesty, distrust, misdirection, and deceit.  It is a tolerated sin among politicians, police, and most people.  It should not be.

Dishonesty separates many and breeds mistrust.  This must stop for a society to be healed and to get along with each other.  Start today, especially if you are a born-again child of God.  Always tell the truth!

“There is beauty in truth, even if it’s painful.  Those who lie, twist life so that it looks tasty to the lazy, brilliant to the ignorant, and powerful to the weak.  But lies only strengthen our defects.  They don’t teach anything, help anything, fix anything or cure anything.  Nor do they develop one’s character, one’s mind, one’s heart or one’s soul.” ― José N. Harris 

The BIBLE VIEW #1040 — Difficulties

In This Issue:
Good From “Bad”
The Canvas God Is Painting

Volume: 1040     March 16, 2026
Theme: Difficulties

 Good From “Bad”
Bill Brinkworth

What a world this would be if bad things never happened.  Since sin entered in, however, all will experience many difficulties during their life.

Many think that hard things should not happen to good people or Christians, but they do!  Just because a person is born into the family of God does not mean they will be exempt from the consequences of natural disasters, disease, aging, others’ actions, and death.

Being saved from Hell does not magically put a force field around a person.  Yes, God does protect us many times, but it still rains on the “just and the unjust.” (Matthew 5:45).  Calamities and hard times will happen to everyone.

God could certainly protect us from all misfortunes, but our trials and tribulations often do much to strengthen us and get us closer to Him.  It is during the hard times that we should grow closer to God and trust Him to carry us through them.  It is also during those times that our faith can grow, as we see his mighty hand of deliverance.

Many wonderful things have happened because of the “bad” times.  Here are some “bad” events that happened to godly people in the Bible, and how God used those events to bring honor to Himself, to bless those going through the dilemma, and to bless others:

  • Noah.  If Noah had not obeyed God and spent many years building the Ark, humanity would not have had a second chance.
  • Abraham.  If Abraham had not come to the point that he chose God over everything else, including his son’s life, he may not have had God’s blessings on him and his generations.
  • Joseph: If Joseph’s jealous brothers had not thrown him in the pit and sold him into slavery, he never would have been second-in-command to the pharaoh and been able to help his family during a time of drought and starvation.
  • Children of Israel: If they had never been in hard bondage, they may have accepted their plight and never turned to God for deliverance.  Think of all the mighty miracles they saw when He answered their prayers.
  • Moses: If he had never kept his father-in-law’s, Jethro’s, sheep and suffered loneliness in the wilderness, he would never have been in the place to see the burning bush and be called to be God’s people’s leader.
  • Moses: If the angry Egyptian pharaoh had not pursued the people of Israel, they never would have seen the Red Sea part, would not have seen their enemy destroyed, and would not have known that God would guide them.
  • Ruth: If Ruth had not been faithful to her mother-in-law and worked to support her, she never would have met the man she was to marry.
  • Hannah: If she had never gone to the temple to pray with a broken heart because of her barrenness and made a vow to God to dedicate the child to Him, she may never had been the mother of Samuel and given Israel a godly leader.
  • Elijah: If Elijah had never stood faithful to God when it was not popular, Israel may have indulged longer in the idolatry of Baalism.
  • Nehemiah: If Nehemiah did not love God and weep for Jerusalem, Jerusalem would never have been rebuilt.
  • Job: If Satan had never tested Job, the man of God never would have had twice as much wealth and belongings as he had had originally (Job 42:12-13).
  • David: If David had not had hard times and heartbreaks, he never would have helped write much of the book of Psalms, which has encouraged and blessed billions of people.
  • Daniel: If Daniel had never been a captive of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, he never would have been able to interpret the king’s dream and spare the lives of the other wisemen (Daniel 2) or be the leader he was.
  • Paul: If Paul had not shipwrecked on Malta, the island’s ruler’s father would never have been healed of his fever.
  • Jesus: If Jesus was never mocked, persecuted, whipped, beaten, lied about, and eventually died on the tormenting cross, we would never escape a punishment in Hell.

Sometimes hard times do come to people to turn them in a godly direction, or stop them from doing more damage to themselves or others.  The difficult tribulations can get them closer to God, so they can see his mighty hand in helping them.  Other times, the trials can be to change a situation to the way God has planned.

Some people spend their whole life mad and blaming God for the death of a loved one or for a trial they went through.  Do they possibly think that their loved ones would miss death, or that they will have a perfectly sheltered life because they are so “good”?

Hard times will and do come to everyone.  No one is exempt.  Those times are either a time to foolishly shake your fist at God (which can only make matters worse) when you need Him the most, or to draw close to Him and see His mighty hand produce “good” from what seemed “bad”.

Why should bad things not happen to us?  Are we more special than even God’s only Son, who also went through hard times?  God has a plan for all that happens in our lives, even though its purpose may be cloudy when we are going through it.

When going through a “valley”, it is the time to call for the God of the mountain.  He sees what we are facing and is willing to guide us through the hard times.  It is during those difficult times that we should get close to Him and seek His help.

“I have never met a strong Christian who had not faced many trials and tribulations!  Those difficulties made them the person they are now.”



The Canvas God Is Painting
Caitlin Hockenburry

When you feel you are all alone
With nowhere else to go
What is going on, you don’t know
But life is changing.
This side of Heaven’s shore
We don’t know what’s in store.
We feel we cannot go on anymore
Without fainting.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

When things do not fall in place
And it’s a struggle to run life’s race
God’s love we strongly chase
Just to keep on going.
So often we don’t know His way
Because we can’t see the display
Of the Canvas that will one day
Be fully showing.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Oh, the strong, strong blasts
From troubles in the past
The sky seems always overcast
Is God not watching?
A loved one’s health is on decline
You don’t know if they’ll be fine.
Wondering how much more time
God is giving?

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Satan is fighting hard
He wants to see you scarred
Your faith discard
In his trying.
So keep on pressing on
Until this life is done
And the battle won
By not complying.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Forgetting the hurt I’ve seen
Knowing there’s a veil between
Where I cannot see
The canvas God is painting.
We need to trust His Name
Know He is always the same
He will get you through the pain
You are facing.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

When I see God’s face
And feel His gentle love’s embrace
I’ll thank Him for His abiding grace
That is life-changing!
When you feel all distressed
Just remember how you are blessed
And one day you will see the rest
When looking at your life’s painting.

Just remember when you feel like fainting,
God is painting!

“God is most likely not done with you yet!”

The BIBLE VIEW #1034 —Service

In This Issue:
What Is Your Gift?
Do Sumthin’

Volume: 1034     January 26, 2026
Theme: Service


What Is Your Gift?
Bill Brinkworth

God has plans for every Christian.  To better equip each child of God and to bring Him the glory, each is given a gift(s) to serve the Saviour better.

These gifts are not the gifts the early church had before they had the entire Word of God.  The seven gifts found in Romans 12:6-8 are necessary to accomplish the work of God in today’s world.  They include the gifts of:

  • Prophecy.  This is not the same ability prophets and early disciples had.  We have the entire plan of God in His written, preserved Word.  We do not need to foretell the future as they did in Old Testament days.

    This gift of prophecy is taking the Word of God and helping others understand it better.  In his 1828 dictionary, Noah Webster defines the gift as the ability “to preach; to instruct in religious doctrines; to interpret or explain Scripture or religious subjects.…”
  • Ministry.  This God-given gift gives a great burden to a Christian to meet the needs of others.
  • Teaching.  This is a gift that allows one to help others better understand the things of God.
  • Exhorting.  This important gift helps one be an encourager to others—a most needed gift, especially among God’s people.
  • Giving.  This gift places a burden on one to meet others’ needs through their giving of things and of themselves.
  • Ruling.  This gift allows one to be a leader.  Too many think they have it, but few have the God-given ability to lead God’s people.
  • Mercy.  This gift gives one the heart to have understanding, patience, and kindness with others.

If you are a child of God, God does not plan for you just to sit.  He desires you serve Him and help others.  He has given you at least one of the above gifts in this church age.

What are your gift(s), and are you using them to help others, honor God, and bring others to know and serve the Lord better?

“A child of God will find themselves in Heaven, but what regrets they will have for eternity when they discover the consequences of not doing anything or little for the Lord while they had the opportunity on Earth.”
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23

 Do Sumthin’
Bill Brinkworth

After one is saved, God’s intention for each person is not to sit around and soak up God’s goodness.  His desire is for each to do something that would get more people saved and more living for the Lord.  It is God’s hope for each of us that we serve Him.  

Each child of God should be a tool that God can use for His glory, using the spiritual gifts (Rom. 12:4-8) He has entrusted to each individual.  Those gifts, special talents, and abilities can be used to reach the lost and glorify God in many ways.  Each of us can be an important cog in winning the world for the glory of God.  We all can do something.

Here are some ministries in which I have seen many serving the Lord:

  • Preaching ministry.  Some are called by God and directed to reach the world with His Message by enabling them to preach.  Preaching is not always from the pulpit on Sunday.  Many have preached at subway stations, by the side of the road, in public gatherings, or wherever they can publicly expound God’s Word.  Some have “preached” without uttering a word, but “spoke” boldly by their public Christian example.  Most of us would not be saved if it were not for someone’s “preaching” God’s truths to us!
  • Teaching ministry.  Some have been burdened to teach the world what God’s Word says.  If a teacher does not teach them, who will (Acts 8:30-31)?

    Many have used their talents, hobbies, or interests in making God’s Word clearer to those they have taught.  I have seen some use Gospel magic, art, puppets, and even their interest in animals to get the attention of many and use their teaching medium to instruct audiences in biblical principles.
  • Visitation ministry.  Many churches have organized visitation at least once a week for all to attend.  They often go in pairs to visit shut-ins, those who have previously visited the church, or to knock on neighboring doors to invite people to church.  Sometimes there are even opportunities to tell people how to be saved.  Millions have been saved by this method. 

    If a church does not have this opportunity, then people can still visit their neighbors, canvas their community, or contact anyone the Lord puts on their heart as a ministry unto the Lord.  Telling others God’s Good News is not just a pastor’s responsibility.  We are all to go and tell!
  • Nursing home ministry.  I call it the “Last Chance Ministry.”  For many of the home’s residents, it is the last opportunity they may have to hear how to be saved or to learn more of God’s Word before they leave this world.  In this ministry, one can preach to those living at the facility or just visit them.  Many in the homes have lost their loved ones, are lonely, and could use an encouraging visit.
  • Tract Ministry.  A “tract” is a little piece of paper with the plan of salvation on it or teaches some biblical truth.  They can sometimes be obtained from one’s church or purchased at a Christian bookstore (The Bible Views available at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html were created for that purpose).  These tracts can be left in bathrooms, given to toll booth attendants, handed to people waiting in line at a restaurant, included in an envelope when paying bills, and given to those we encounter every day.
  • Van or Bus ministry.  Many churches have a bus or van ministry where a vehicle picks up children and adults and brings them to church.  Get involved as a driver or worker.  If your church does not have such a ministry, start one with your vehicle.  Bring as many as you can to hear God’s Message.  Someone may be saved because of your efforts.
  • Singing or music ministry.  Singing in church services is available in most churches.  Some have used their ability to sing on their own in hospital or nursing home rooms.  One nursing home worker asked whether she could sing a hymn as she visits each patient, and she would sing one if the resident desired.  Another man visited those sick in the hospital.  He brings his guitar with him, sings, and plays for anyone who wants him to.
  • Minister to those who are sick or shut-ins.  Have you experienced health problems where you were bed or house-bound?  Perhaps you felt cut off from the world because no one visited you.  Others feel the same way.  When you hear of one who is not well, send them a card or call on them.  It is a wonderful opportunity to be a Christian influence for someone who needs encouragement.
  • Prison ministry.  Prisons are often places where folks listen to what the Bible has to say.  It may be difficult to get into that ministry.  However, if the Lord desires you to get involved with those who are detained, He can open the doors of opportunity.
  • Card Ministry.  People need encouragement.  Send a birthday, sympathy, get well, or “praying for you” card to people God puts on your heart to encourage.  E-mailing or calling them are also ways to be a Christian encouragement to others. 
  • Writing ministry.  God has always preserved His teaching with the written Word.  His Message can still be distributed through this medium.  One can expound what the Bible teaches by getting articles published in newspapers (letters-to-the-editor).  Articles can be published in Christian newsletters, websites, and other publications.  Some have even prayerfully picked names out of phone books, written those strangers, and given them the plan of salvation.
  • Help ministry.  Some notice a need in others’ lives and help meet it.   They may visit a lonely person, babysitting for a working single parent, or even do household chores for someone who physically cannot do certain things.
  • Prayer ministry.  People have needs everywhere you look.  We cannot always do something physically to help others, but we can pray for them.  Make others’ needs your prayer burdens and bombard God’s throne with pleas for His help in the lives of those who are needy.
  • Disciplining.  People may be saved, but they rarely know what to do next or how to do it.  For this reason, many never grow spiritually.  If you feel led by the Holy Spirit, take a person under “your wing.”  Spend time with that person.  Perhaps your influence will encourage them to live for the Lord. 
  • Meals.  Prepare meals for those who may be going through a difficult time and may not be able or have the time to cook. 
  • Exhorting others.  Everyone gets discouraged or goes through hard times.  While down in their “valley,” they could use someone’s kind words of encouragement.   Checking up on people by telephone when they are absent from church or elsewhere, shows them that they are important. 
  • Widows ministry.  There are not too many things harder than being married to a person for a long time and losing them in death.  Widows need to be encouraged.  Visit them.  Help them do things that perhaps their deceased spouse used to do.  They are often alone, can use a friend, and need help.
  • Reading the Bible to people who cannot read it anymore.  Some cannot read or cannot see to read.  Make it your ministry to faithfully read to them. 
  • Be a friend.  Some take it upon themselves to be a friend to someone who does not seem to have one.
  • Deaf or language interpreting ministry.  Hearing the Word of God is essential.  The deaf, or those who speak another language, may not understand it unless someone helps them hear God’s truths in the language they know.
  • Hospitality ministry.  Meet others’ needs by allowing visiting preachers or others to stay in a spare room. 
  • Flea market or fair ministry.  One man goes to a flea market, rents a booth, and to witnesses to many that pass his table.  He gives out tracts, Bibles, and even hands out “Bible Views.”  Others have a full-time ministry doing the same thing at state fairs.

One of the great commandments that each Christian is to obey is to “… love thy neighbour as thyself.  There is none other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31.   Doing something for others and making their needs important to you is showing them that you care about them.  Making others a priority in our lives also helps us get our minds off ourselves.  It can enable others to see the love of Christ through our efforts.

If you have the desire to make a difference in this world for the cause of Christ, ask God to give you the ministry He wants you to have.  After that, look for the opportunity He gives you to do something for Him.  There is something everyone can do.  Everyone has a hurt, a discouragement, or a need.  God often uses other Christians to meet those needs.  He wants to use you if you are willing.

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Eccl. 9:10

The BIBLE VIEW#1025 — Money

In This Issue:
Borrowing
The Delusion of Wealth
Never Enough
What Some Wealthy People Thought about Wealth

Volume: 1025   November 10, 2025
Theme:  Money

Read 19+ years of  free Bible Views, PLUS devotions, lessons, Bible studies,
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Borrowing and Lending
Bill Brinkworth

Many in the last three decades or more have developed a lifestyle of spending more than they can afford.  Yes, I know that the economy is geared to people living off their credit, and yes, I know “everyone is doing it.”

No, I do not think it is the bank’s fault for lending us money we cannot afford to repay.  We are responsible for our decision to obtain a loan.  We alone are accountable for our spending and paying back what we borrowed.

In many cases, it may be necessary to borrow money to purchase a “need.” However, there is such a thing as “responsible borrowing and lending.” Here are a few biblical principles that, if heeded, may keep many from the financial trouble that could easily happen to them if these principles are ignored:

  • The Bible does teach that it is acceptable to loan money and things.  The good lender should show mercy and kindness to those to whom he has lent.
    “A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.” Psalm 112:5
    “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” Proverbs 19:17
    “Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.” Luke 6:30
    “Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.” Matthew 5:42  Also: Psalm 112:5, Proverbs 19:17
  • A godly person has a responsibility to pay back what he has borrowed.  It is a wicked person who does not repay a loan!
    “The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.” Psalm 37:21
  • When we give our word to repay money we have borrowed, we have an obligation to repay it.  Breaking our word is lying.  We are accountable for the promises we make!  It is our testimony, especially as Christians, to do what we say we will do.
    “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,” Proverbs 6:16-17
    Covenant breaking (promise breaking) is listed as a sin in Romans 1:31.
  • When times are tough and it does not seem possible to pay the bills, turn to God first —not the banks.  He can, if it is truly a need, help you!
    “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.  I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalms 37:24-25
    “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” Psalm 37:4
  • When a person does not repay what he borrows, he keeps what does not belong to him.  That is stealing!
  • When you do borrow, you can lose some freedom.
    “The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7
  • When you do borrow, do not get into a situation where your freedom is used as collateral for a debt.
    “Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.” Proverbs 22:26 (“Surety” can be one that is legally bound to pay off a debt. In some cases, if the debt is not paid, a person may be bound to pay off the debt by his being in slavery, in one form or another.)
  • Some debt may be accumulated because of one’s coveting.  Coveting is a sin (Exodus 20:17).  It is wicked in God’s eyes because one may not be happy with what God has allowed him to have.  

    A person may lust for what another has.  That coveting may lead him to spend what he should not have spent.  He may end up with payments he cannot afford.  The financial hardship may be the consequence of one’s sin.  It may be a reaping of what was sown.
  • If we borrow something, and it is damaged or dies in our possession, it is the borrower’s responsibility to restore to the lender what was lent.  The borrower needs to fix what was damaged or loss.
    “And if a man borrow ought of his neighbour, and it be hurt, or die, the owner thereof being not with it, he shall surely make it good.” Exodus 22:14
  • If you are responsible for making a person poor, do not charge him interest!
    “If thou lend money to any of my people that is poor by thee, thou shalt not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury.” Exodus 22:25
  • If you are trying to help a person who is having financial difficulties, do not profit from his hardship.
    “And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee.  Take thou no usury of him, or increase: but fear thy God; that thy brother may live with thee.  Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase.” Leviticus 25:35-37

Having a “little” may not be such a bad thing!
“A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.” Psalm 37:16
“Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.” Prov. 15:16 “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” I Timothy 6:6

The Delusion of Wealth
Author Unknown

There is a fable about a covetous man who claimed to find his way one moonlit night into a fairy’s palace.  There he saw bars, apparently of solid gold, strewed everywhere.  He was permitted to take away as many as he could carry.  He carried his treasure home with much difficulty.

In the morning, when the sun rose, he found himself waking and still clutching his “treasure”,  which he saw was only a bundle of sticks.  All around him, invisible “people” laughed and scoffed at what he previously thought was valuable.

Such will be the confusion of many a person who died in this world and who is worth much.  Awaking in the next life, they will find that their “treasures” on Earth meant nothing in eternity.  They will find themselves “… wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” (Rev. 3:17).

“Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.”  Rev. 3:17-18

Never Enough
Author Unknown

“When I was younger,” said a friend, “an older man tried to teach me some wisdom I should know about.  He once asked me when a man was rich enough?”  I replied, “When he has ten thousand dollars?”

“No,” was his answer.

“Twenty thousand?”

Again, “No.”

“A hundred thousand?”

“No.”

In an attempt to settle the discussion, I responded, “One million dollars?”

“No!” he again responded.  “When he has a little more than he has, and that is never!  If he acquires one thousand, he wishes to have two thousand, then five, then twenty, then fifty.  If he grasped all the money in the whole world, he would desire other world’s riches to possess.”

“Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.”
Proverb 27:20

What Some Wealthy People Thought about Money

“I have made many millions, but they have brought me no happiness.”  
— John W. Rockefeller 

“The care of $200,000,000 is enough to kill anyone.  There is no pleasure in it.”
— W. H. Vanderbilt

“I am the most miserable man on Earth.” — John Jacob Astor 

“I was happier when doing a mechanic’s job.” — Henry Ford

“Millionaires seldom smile.” — Andrew Carnegie

“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which, while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” I Timothy  6:10

The BIBLE VIEW #1022 —Anger

In This Issue:
Get It Right Before Bedtime
When Anger Is Sinful
Uncontrolled Anger
When Humor Helped Keep His Shirt On
Yielding Personal “Rights”
Unhappy and Last Place

Volume: 1022   October 20, 2025
Theme:  Anger


Get It Right Before Bedtime
Bill Brinkworth

Part of man’s makeup includes the “anger” emotion.  Perhaps, because we are made in the image of our Creator, we received this reaction in certain situations from God.

Reading the Scriptures, one will quickly see some instances where God was angry.  There were times when God was angry with Moses (Ex. 4:14), Aaron (Deut. 9:20), Israel (Deut. 9:8, II Kings 17:18), Solomon (I Kings 11:9), and the wicked on a daily basis (Psalms 7:11). 

God’s only son, Jesus, also got angry at times.  He was angered by hardened hearts (Mark 3:5).  Most likely, Jesus was angered when He saw people making the Temple, a place of worship, into a place of commerce (John 2:14-15).

However, when God and Jesus became angry, no sin was involved.  God is Holy (Lev. 19:2, I Sam. 2:2) and does not sin, nor does His Son (Heb. 4:15).  Anger does not necessarily need to be sinful.

There are still things that make God angry, and I am sure they still break Jesus’ heart.  We encounter plenty in this life that should make a Christian angry. 

The killing of 4,000 innocent babies a day by abortion should make a Christian angry.  The world’s brainwashing attempt to get people to accept and tolerate sin should get a believer mad.  

Punishing righteousness and godly living should make one displeased.  Christians live in a world where many things are done contrary to what the Bible teaches we should do, and they should get upset over that.  We should love the sinner, but sin should make us angry.

Sometimes people’s reactions to things, which may not necessarily be a sin, can get them mad.  Regardless of what upsets us, we must be cautious, as anger can lead to sin.  A Christian must always be wary of getting involved in iniquity.  One must avoid anything that may, at one point, lead one to do wrong.

For this reason, God has given us a blow-off valve so the pressures from our anger do not evolve into sin.  God’s warning is that no matter what gets you angry, make sure you get it right before the day is over.  Before the sun goes down and before you put your head on your pillow, make sure you deal with your anger.

If you find yourself angry with your wife, family member, coworker, or anyone else, make sure to address it before the end of the day.  That means someone may have to surrender their pride and discuss the day’s provocation with their spouse before bedtime. 
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” Ephesians 4:26

A child may need to be apologized to because a parent’s temper got the better of them during a discipline situation.  Perhaps a phone call is necessary to re-establish a good relationship with an employee or neighbor.  If we want to end the possible consequences of improper handling of anger, it should be dealt with as soon as possible.

Failing to address anger promptly often results in hostilities and feelings being bottled up.  When one wakes up the next day, those emotions are strengthened and hardened in one’s mind.  The longer they remain undealt with, the harder they will ever be to reconcile.

Unreconciled feelings often lead to hardened, unpliable hearts.  A hardened heart leads to bitterness.  Before long, one may develop a bitter spirit towards an individual or even a group of people, all because anger was never addressed and instead it festered and grew.  

Often, the person may not even realize what has happened to him.  Anger and bitterness can fester in a relationship all because one let a day go by without humbling oneself and getting a problem resolved before the sun went down.

Perhaps, many suns have set on your anger.  The resulting bitterness has robbed you of the joy you once had. 

Every time you see a certain person or hear his name, the old, unforgiven memories churn up, and you find yourself facing the same anger.  It would have been much easier to remedy those feelings on the day it happened, but it is never too late to get your angry feelings right with another. 

Yes, it may be the other person who did something terribly wrong.  However, your anger has robbed you of your joy, and that sin may have kept you from having a closer walk and relationship with the Lord.  Get hostilities and anger right today, before the sun goes down.

“A man that does not know how to be shaken to his heart’s core with indignation over things evil is either a fungus or a wicked man” — Beecher


When Anger Is Sinful
J. Beaumont, 1871

Anger is sin:

  • When we are angry with the providence of God.
  • When we are angry with the laws of God.
  • When we are angry at the doctrines taught in the Word of God.
  • When we are angry at the good we see in others.
  • When we are angry with those who differ from us in religious sentiments.
  • When we are angry at reproof.
  • When we wish evil upon our reprover.
  • When we use unlawful means to avenge ourselves.

“To be angry is often to revenge the fault of others upon ourselves.” — Antinomy

Uncontrolled Anger
Oliver B. Greene

Alexander the Great was one of the few men in history who truly deserved his descriptive title.  He was energetic, versatile, and intelligent.  Although hatred was not generally part of his nature, several times in his life, he was tragically defeated by anger.

The story is told of one of these occasions, when a dear friend of Alexander, a general in his army, became intoxicated and began to ridicule the emperor in front of his men.  Blinded by anger and quick as lightning, Alexander snatched a spear from the hand of a soldier and hurled it at his friend.  Although he had only intended to scare the drunken general, his aim was accurate, and the spear took the life of his childhood friend.

Deep remorse followed his anger.  He was overcome with guilt, Alexander attempted to take his own life with the same spear, but he was stopped by his men.  For days, he lay sick, calling for his friend and chiding himself as a murderer.

Alexander the Great conquered many cities and countries, but he had failed miserably to control his own spirit.

When Humor Helped Keep His Shirt On
Author Unknown

In early 1952, President Truman appointed Newbold Morris to investigate crime and its management in high government circles.  Later that year, Morris was in the witness chair answering a barrage of pointed questions from the Senate subcommittee regarding the sale of some ships by his New York company.

The investigation was becoming hot and fierce.  Morris’ face took on a look of pain, then of surprise, and then of anger.  Amidst the excitement, he shouted as he reached into his coat and produced a sheet of white paper.

“Wait a minute.  I have a note here from my wife.  It says, ‘Keep your shirt on.’”

Everybody laughed, and the angry excitement died down, at least temporarily.

“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Proverbs 15:1

Yielding Personal “Rights”
Author Unknown

The public library had a system called “Dial-A-Tale.” Anytime a young child wanted to hear a fairy tale, they could call the number, and a voice would read a short fairy tale to the listening young ear.  However, the number was only one digit different than Rev. Tom Erickson’s number.

Because the small fingers often made mistakes, Tom received frequent calls from a child wanting to hear a fairy tale.  

After several unsuccessful attempts to explain a wrong number to the small child, Tom felt he had only one alternative.  He obtained a copy of Three Little Pigs, and set it by the phone.  Whenever a child called, he simply read him the tale.  A beautiful illustration of yielding personal rights and avoiding anger.

He didn’t, as you might have thought, change his telephone number to avoid the “invasion of his privacy”, as some might have done.

“Anyone can become angry.  That is easy.  But to be angry with the right person, to the right degree, at the right time, and in the right way — that is not easy.”  — Antinomy

Unhappy and Last Place
Author Unknown

A Do-it-yourself catalog firm received the following letter from one of its customers: “I built a birdhouse according to your stupid plans, and not only is it much too big, but it keeps blowing out of the tree.  Signed, Unhappy.”

The firm replied: “Dear Unhappy, We’re sorry about the mix-up.  We accidentally sent you a sailboat blueprint.  But if you think you are unhappy, you should read the letter from the guy who came in last in the yacht club regatta.”

The BIBLE VIEW #1021 — Being A Christian

In This Issue:
When the Holy Spirit Whispers to Your Heart
What We Do Have
Paul’s Good Advice
“Insiders” Can Do More Damage

Volume: 1021   October 13, 2025
Theme:  Being a Christian


When the Holy Spirit Whispers to Your Heart
Bill Brinkworth

Paul had corrected the carnal Corinthian church in his writings to them.  He got no joy out of rebuking them for their sin and weaknesses (II Corinthians 7:8), however, he rejoiced over the results of his correcting them. 

The Corinthians weighed his remarks about their sin, found the accusations were correct, saw that it was wrong in God’s eyes, were sorrowful over their iniquities, and corrected their behavior (II Cor. 7:8-9).  Paul’s verbal stand against their wrongdoing helped them repent of their error.

That is usually the intent of every preacher who preaches behind the pulpit.  They labor over the portion of the Scriptures God had laid on their heart to preach and deliver a message.  Many times, the preacher would rather not say what he has to say.  He knows very well how some will react.  

The preacher has a duty, however (II Cor. 7:12).  That duty is to deliver the truth, no matter how hard some may take it.  As did Paul, the preacher is to put the spotlight on spiritual problems in our lives.  Once we see the error, it is up to us to correct the wrongdoing.

Some hear the message pounded from the pulpit and do as the Corinthians did.  They listen to it, and most likely do not like what they hear.   Then they realize that it was not the preacher who was rebuking them, but God’s Word. 

When the seriousness of the matter is realized, they become “sorrowful” over the matter.  They become so sad about what they had done that they committed themselves not to do it again.  The Holy Spirit’s work through the preacher’s sermon has done what it was intended to do!

However, many react differently to the sermon.  Instead of getting their sin or spiritual weakness corrected, they get mad at the deliverer of the Good News. 

It is not unusual for some to storm out of the church, never to return, blaming the preacher for, “He was personally attacking me, and embarrassing me before the whole church!”  Quite often, the preacher has no idea that his words hit the mark the Holy Spirit was aiming at or to whom it applied.

Others react badly by discrediting the Spirit’s tugging at their heart by saying, “The preacher doesn’t know what he is talking about,” “That Scripture was for another time, and doesn’t apply today,” “I don’t agree with what he said”, and on and on the excuses flow.  The truth is that the Holy Spirit spoke to their heart, and they refused to obey what He was convicting them of doing.

Preaching is often the medium God chooses to speak to hearts.  However, God speaks to our hearts, it is up to us to heed the warning and turn from our rebuked ways. 

Have you heard His commands?  Did you get glad and repent, or did you get mad and not correct what He desired you to change?

“When God’s Word convicts you of sin, don’t shoot the messenger; heed the message!”

What We Do Have
Bill Brinkworth

From time to time, one hears a complaining Christian murmur, “I am a Christian.  I can’t do this or that.”  They sound like they do not enjoy being a Christian.  They forget who they are and what they have. 

Romans 8 reminds us of some of the many advantages of being a Christian.  When we are saved, the blessings include:

  • We are not condemned for the many sins we commit.
    “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1

Matthew Henry wrote, “Paul does not say, ‘There is no accusation against them,’ for this there is; but the accusation is thrown out, and the indictment quashed.  He does not say, ‘There is nothing in them that deserves condemnation,’ for this there is, and they see it, and own it, and mourn over it, and condemn themselves for it; but it shall not be their ruin.  He does not say, ‘There is no cross, no affliction to them or no displeasure in the affliction,’ for this there may be, but no condemnation.” We are protected from the law’s judgment on our sins because of Christ.

  • We have the opportunity to be led by the indwelling Spirit of God.  We do not have to follow the flesh that only wants to do what feels right to it, and leads us to commit damaging sin.  We can follow God’s perfect, safe guidance (Rom. 8:5).
  • Because we can follow the Spirit of God, we can please God (Rom. 8:8).  Before the Spirit guided us, we did not please Him.
  • We are “sons of God” (Rom. 8:14).  Praise the Lord!  We are family members!
  • We are adopted into God’s family when we are saved (Rom. 8:15).  He is our “Abba”, our Father.  There is no greater honor than to be able to call the Creator of everything “Father.”  We can, once we are saved!
  • We are no longer bound by sin; we are freed from its control (Rom. 8:15-16).
  • The indwelling Spirit lets us know that we are different; we are the children of God (Rom. 8:16).
  • When we love God, we know that all that happens to us can turn out for our good and God’s glory (Rom. 8:28).  There is no need to be afraid, because God is for us (Rom. 8:31).
  • No person or circumstance can separate us from our loving God (Rom. 8:35-39).

So, praise the Lord!  If you are saved, you are on the winning side.  You have much for which to be thankful.

“If you live for God, you might miss some things: drunkenness, AIDS, divorce,
jail, etc.” — Barbara Brinkworth



Paul’s Good Advice
Bill Brinkworth

In Paul’s concluding remarks to the Galatians (Galatians 6), he left them with some good advice.  His counsel included:

  • If someone has a weakness, and you truly are spiritual, help them with their problem.  That advice is contrary to what so many do when one is having difficulties (Gal.  6:1).  Too many talk about the dilemma of those who are hurting, ridicule them, and “kick them” when they are down.
  • Take others’ hardships to your own heart.  Bear the burdens of others (Galatians  6:2), as if they were your very own.
  • No matter how successful you think you are, do not fool yourself into thinking you are better than you really are (Gal.  6:3).
  • Hardships and trials are difficult and exhausting, but when you persevere through them, you will feel better about yourself (Gal. 6:4, 5).  Too many try to keep others from learning a valuable life lesson by making it easier for them.  Those people never experience the joy of overcoming the difficulty.  Often, facing a problem alone can lead a person to draw closer to and become more reliant on God.
  • Never forget or be fooled, one always reaps what one sows!  If one plants a crop of sin, he will reap the harvest of some really rotten “fruit” (Gal. 6:7, 8)!
  • Do not quit doing right!  You may feel that there is no reward in doing so, or that no one may ever give you the credit for doing right, but God promises that, in time, you will reap the blessings of a good “crop” (Gal.  6:9)!
  • Be a blessing to others, especially other Christians (Gal. 6:10)!

Those seven bits of advice will make one’s life more rewarding and limit many unnecessary bad consequences that many face.  Paul’s wisdom, if followed, would result in fewer selfish people and many more others-oriented, content, and fulfilled Christians.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”  I Corinthians 15:58



“Insiders” Can Do More Damage
Author Unknown

We who have believed can hurt Christ more than those who have not.  Enemies within the fort are more dangerous than enemies without. 

God’s worst enemies when He sought the world through His Son were not the unbelieving Romans, but the Jews who believed in God and had worshipped Him for centuries.

What a responsibility this truth puts upon those who bear Christ’s name.  For the damage is just as severe from unintentional disloyalty as from open enmity.  Every lowering of our standard is a worse stab at our best Friend and Saviour than can be dealt by scoffers or unbelievers.

The BIBLE VIEW #1016 — Sin Free?

In This Issue:
One Can’t be Sinless
I Stil Mak Mistaks
Guilty

Volume: 1016   September 1, 2025
Theme:  Not Perfect

One Can’t Be Sinless
Bill Brinkworth

When I was younger, my mother once confined me to my room until supper time because of my bad behavior.  While there, I was very upset about getting into trouble.

The guilt of not doing right and being punished was humiliating.  Making my mother upset also lay heavily on my heart.   I never wanted to disappoint her and have her punish me.

After retrieving my Bible from the bookcase and reading random passages from it, I felt even worse.  Although I don’t remember which passage affected me, I was reminded that my actions were sinful.  Conviction made me feel worse.

Soon, I made up my mind that I would never sin again.  In a short time, I don’t remember what I did, but even though I was the only one in the room, I had sinned again.  All alone, with no one to lead me astray, and I still sinned.

At that point, I realized that it was not possible not to sin.  Now that I am saved, I understand that I was discovering my soul may not want to commit iniquity, but my weak flesh had a mind of its own if I let it. 

As a Christian, we may be forgiven and may not sin as much as we did before being saved, but we are and always will be sinners, as long as we are in this body!  We may not want to break God’s commandments, but we can and too often will.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
“If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” I John 1:10
“What then?  are we better than they?  No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin.” Romans 3:9

Admitting one’s sins is essential, but it is just a starting point for getting ALL one’s sins forgiven and forgotten by God.  The crucial next part to have ALL one’s iniquities pardoned is to realize there is nothing anyone can do or pay to have their sins canceled.  Good deeds and acts will not pay the great price the sinner owes God.
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

There is only one payment that God will accept to cover our transgressions.  Believing that God sent Jesus, His only Son, to pay our sin debt on the Cross is the only way.  That personal realization and trusting what He has done for us will then free one from sin’s ultimate penalty.

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9  We can be saved from an eternity in a tormenting Hell.
“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12

Although we may still need to confess and repent of our sins daily to remain in fellowship with God, it does not mean we have to be saved again.
“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:30  “Sealed” indicates salvation is an official transaction that cannot be changed.
“Quench not the Spirit.” I Thessalonians 5:19

“My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:29  A saved sinner will not lose one’s salvation.

If one is not saved, they will experience an eternity of regret.  For those who are truly trusting Christ’s payment for their iniquities, you are forgiven.  However, get it right with God and purpose to do your best to flee temptation and sin with God’s help.

“When one is saved all their sins are forgiven, but refusal to clean out current iniquity can halt God from working in one’s life.” — Brinkworth

I Stil Mak Mistaks
Bill Brinkworth

I have been writing Christian material for over 40 years.  Thousands of articles have been produced.  However, despite my best efforts, I still make many mistakes.

All articles have been read and reread.  Each time I review the material, I find more errors and often discover a more effective way to express something.

My bookshelves have many grammar and writing books.  I have studied them and try to adhere to the rules, but still, not one article I have written in all those years has been without error. 

During and after writing, I carefully proofread what I have written.  Sometimes, I reread the article more than five times before I handed it to my wife for her to check.  Still, even with the two of us proofreading, there were still errors or improvements that could have been made.

Since she was unable to proofread my writing due to her illness, I use professional proofreading software to check the pieces I had written.  Those programs still find mistakes.  If I check the article with one program, another system will find errors that the other software did not detect.

Just before they are published, I reread them again.  Still, I find mistakes or more efficient ways to make a statement.

It is very discouraging to me that, despite the effort I put into the material, I still do not write “perfectly.”  The fact and truth of the matter is, no writer can proof their own work.  Other proofreaders may also still find more mistakes.

One printing company I am familiar with has put each of its publications through a rigorous 12+ point barrage of proofreaders.  Most have still found errors.

As hard as I try, I will always make mistakes in what I write.

Likewise, a person, saved or lost, will also make “mistakes,” however, their deeds are often sins.  Sin always has grievous side effects and usually regrets.  It must be avoided,

Try as the sinner may, iniquity will always be around the corner.  It is very difficult not to sin, especially in this God-rejecting environment. 

None of us is “good.”  We may have better moments, but sin can hijack one’s thought life or behavior.
“But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Galatians 3:22

Because of an inherited sin nature, no thanks to Adam and Eve’s disobedience,  we will always sin.  Those who claim they do not sin are either ignorant of what iniquity is, are dishonest, or should be checked for nail prints in their hands  (Jesus was the only person who never sinned and His hands were nailed to a Cross).
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:” Romans 5:12

Because one will always sin, that does not give anyone the license to continue transgressing God’s commandments, nor does one need to stop trying to halt iniquity.  “Why, I keep messing up, so why try?” some mutter in exasperation.

When a born-again child of God sins, one does not lose one’s salvation.  No one has earned their salvation; it is a free gift of God, and He does not take back what He has given.
“Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,” II Timothy 1:9

Sin needs to be confessed to God, and with God’s help and one’s watchful attempts, it can be curtailed.  Draw closer to Him.  He will patiently help you get untangled from sin’s stranglehold.  You can succeed.
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not.  And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:” I John 2:1

We cannot be perfect because of our temporary, weak bodies.  However, one day we will not have to battle our sinful flesh and be discouraged by our sin.  God will one day give saved people a new body that will not sin.  Until that time, carry on doing his will and way.
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

“Real Christians are forgiven, but sin can still ruin one’s walk with Christ and make one’s life miserable.” — Brinkworth

Guilty?
“Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.  24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:  25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever.  Amen.  26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.  28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;  29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:  32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” Romans 1:22-32

The BIBLE VIEW #1012 — What Are You Doing With God’s Word?

In This Issue:
Lessons Realized While Picking Blueberries
In One Ear and Out into the Fire
Forgotten Treasures

Volume: 1012   August 4, 2025
Theme:  What Are You Doing With God’s Word?


Lessons Realized While Picking Blueberries
Bill Brinkworth

We can see examples of biblical principles all around us.  We should expect to find these visual “parables” because the God who preserved His written Word for us is also the same One who created all in this universe.  He has not left you on your own.  He wants you to see and follow His way, and there are many ways to see it.

While picking blueberries from my sprawling bushes, I related many situations of that job to principles about our handling of God’s Word.  I was reminded that:

  • Although you think you picked all the juicy berries in front of you, when you look back at where you have already plucked, you find you missed some.  Often, they are hidden behind leaves or branches that shield them when picking from another direction.

    This brought to mind the many times I have read certain scriptures, but their principles were not understood at the time or were not relevant to me when I first read them.  However, when in need of specific godly advice, the same verse can be looked at from the angle of need, and it becomes a light or solution to a situation one is currently facing. 

    When the Bible is read, we may not always find something that applies to our lives at the time, but when it is needed, God allows us to understand His advice.
  • Sometimes good fruit has fallen off the bush and lies wasted at the base of the tree.  We often read the Bible with other things on our minds and miss God’s advice that could help us. 
  • Unharvested, ripe fruit laying at the base of bushes also pictures godly direction that one never bothered to glean from God’s preserved, Road-map for life.  Solutions to problems are close at hand, but the pages of the Bible are not opened to find them.
  • Sometimes berries have rotted or have been ruined by nibbling birds.  Too often, we read something in God’s Word and believe it means what we were previously told it meant.  We fail to study what other Scriptures say about the situation and believe in unusable, untrue doctrines.
  • Sometimes a strong wind came and blew much of the fruit off the tree.  Those wasting winds are like many false teachings that have been heard.  They invalidate the truth and value of God’s Word, causing people to pay no mind to the Bible’s advice.  Untrue statements like “A bunch of old men wrote the Book, and it is not what God said,” “There are errors in the Bible, and it cannot be trusted,” and “ Different versions say it better” convince too many to ignore the Bible’s truths.
  • Sometimes, intermingled among the branches, a wild, thorned blackberry bush manages to grow.  Among delicious blueberries, blackberries are tempting fruits, but they are not blueberries.  However, when picked, one gets scratched, and annoying chingers cause tremendous itching.  For the next few days, one regrets being tempted to pick those non-blueberries because of the painful scratches and the insect bites.

    Likewise, Christians who get sidetracked from doing God’s will and way by some unscriptural temptations many times regret straying from God’s direction for them.  Too often, wrong acquaintances, watered-down Bibles, unbiblical doctrines, and involvement in sin get one off-course from God’s direction, and it causes much regret.


Life certainly is not a bowl of blueberries.  There is not much easy-picking, and it requires much work and discernment.

Read and study God’s Word.  Pay attention to every Word because one day you will need His wisdom.  Do not be distracted by philosophies, opinions, or popular trends if they do not align with what is taught in the Bible.  God does not desire you to go through life without His help.  His Way is there for you to follow.  Read and apply His Truths.

In One Ear and Out into the Fire
Bill Brinkworth

God gave His Word to the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 36).  It was shown in hopes that the people of Israel, when they heard how their sin would be judged and punished by God, would repent and stop their wickedness.  That is always the first desire of God.  He does not want any to perish.
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” II Peter 3:9

Baruch, Jeremiah’s scribe, heard the Words from Jeremiah and recorded them on a scroll.  For an unspecified reason, the prophet was not allowed in the Temple.  Jeremiah commanded Baruch to read it, in his place, to an array of princes.  Fear struck the listeners, and they immediately wanted the king to hear God’s judgment by hearing the words of God.  “Surely, as they were touched and convicted, so will the king be,” they must have thought.

Jehudi was selected to read the prophetic words to the king.  Instead of being grieved and burdened as he heard a few pages read, the king cut them up with his penknife and threw them into the fire.  As more were read to him, he did likewise.  Soon, all the Words given to Jeremiah were destroyed.

Just ignoring the Words, however, did not lessen his responsibility to deal with the warnings.  As for the Word, it was simply rewritten, and today we have all the same Words that Jeremiah was given, plus some additional truths Jeremiah added.  God could preserve His Word then, and He is still doing it today in the preserved King James Bible for English-speaking people, despite all that man is trying to do to dilute His truths.

What is interesting is to see how these men handled what was heard.  The prophet heard, knew their source, and knew they were valuable to share with others so they could divert a terrible fate.  He knew how many would react, but he still made sure others had the opportunity to hear God’s Words as he had.  Today’s Christians should have a similar burden to want others to listen to the truths as taught in God’s Word.  If we do not tell others, who will?

The princes heard the same words and were afraid of what was prophesied to happen.  They too wanted another to hear it.  I am sure they were hoping their leader would help change the situation so God would not judge their nation.

The king reacted like so many do today.  He heard the words, was not convicted or disturbed, and burnt them up.  He did not do with the Truths as God intended.

Destroying or ignoring the truths from the Bible is certainly going on today.  God’s Word is ridiculed and demeaned.  We hear all the “arguments,” which include:

  • “Only the weak believe it.” However, are we not all “weak”?  Most do not recognize their weaknesses – yet!  I heard this defense from a man who was on his fifth marriage, and he is a young man.  He just does not see where he is failing, perhaps because he is comparing himself to other “weak” persons around him, and does not seem as “bad” as others.  If he and others would compare themselves to what the Bible says about their condition, actions, and sins, they might see a truly different picture of themselves.
  • “It is filled with errors.” People often say that, but most cannot give an example of an “error”.  The majority who have given the Bible open-minded study have concluded that there are no errors.

    Years ago, one website offered thousands of dollars as a reward to anyone who could find errors in it.  They never gave one cent of reward because no one could find a mistake.  None of the big talk about contradictions and errors proved true when they were challenged.  I have found that many who claim this excuse have never even read it for themselves, or have formed an opinion before they even read some of it.
  • “It’s too hard to understand.” Actually, the majority of the King James Bible is at a fifth-grade level.  The difficulty in reading and understanding it depends on whether or not the Holy Spirit of God is in the reader’s heart.  God’s Spirit is the only One that can allow anyone to understand it.
  • “It’s not important.” This is the excuse many use for not even attempting to read it.  It is shocking to know how few have read it at all, and even fewer that have read it from cover to cover — even amongst Christians!
  • They do not want to hear it.  They have already purposed in their heart not to obey the highest Authority.  This was the case of the king in Jeremiah 36.  He, like so many others, had his plans as to how he wanted to live his life and did not want any authority telling him how to live it.  It is when people realize their way does not work that they turn to God’s way and allow Him to lead them in the direction He desires for them.

How are you handling the Word of God?  Is it so precious to you that you are burdened to share it with others, no matter what it costs you in popularity, friendships, and others’ opinions about you?

 Are you believing every Word and trusting its Author, even though you may not initially understand it all?  Are you asking and allowing the Spirit of God to help you know His Word?  Are the truths within the pages of God’s Word so important to you that you make the effort to read and obey them, or are you allowing it to go in one ear and out into the fire as the king did, and not letting God’s Word influence and direct your life?  Read God’s Word and let Him show you His truth.

“… For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48



Forgotten Treasure
Dr. Edmond

A man once entered a home in Germany and found it very wretched — no fire, no furniture, no food.  Everything bore the appearance of utter poverty.  Glancing around, he saw, in a neglected corner, a copy of the Bible, and when he went away, he said to the poor tenants, “There is a treasure in this house that would make you all rich.”

After he had gone, the people began to search the house for what they thought must be a jewel or a pot of gold, and found nothing.  They dug up the floor in hopes of discovering the hidden store of wealth.  Their labors were all in vain.  One day, the mother lifted the old Bible, and found written on the flyleaf these words, “The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.” (Ps. 119:72)

“Ah!” she said, “can this be the treasure the stranger spoke of?”  So, she shared her thoughts with the rest of the family.  They began to read the Bible and were transformed in character, and the blessings of God came to stay with them. 

The stranger came back to find poverty gone, contentment and peace in its place, and a hearty Christian welcome.  With grateful joy, the family told him, “We found the treasure, and it has proved all that you said to us it would.”

“A man may read the numbers on a sundial, but he cannot tell the time of day unless the sun shines on the dial.  We may read the Bible over and over, but we cannot learn its purpose or words until the Spirit of God shines into our hearts.” — T. Watson 

The BIBLE VIEW #1005 — Trust the Lord

In This Issue:
An Unreliable Foundation
Give God the Rudder

Volume: 1005   May 11, 2025
Theme:  Trust the Lord!

If you like The BIBLE VIEW, you will most likely look forward to receiving  The Daily View, a free daily devotion.  Sign up (https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M), and you will be e-mailed a link to read or HEAR a KJV chapter and a short commentary (200-700 words) of something taught in the day’s reading.  The e-mail will include a mini-sermon in pictures, a prayer list, Thought for The Day, a Bible study, and short articles reinforcing biblical principles.

An Unreliable Foundation
Bill Brinkworth

The central Italian city of Pisa has many popular tourist sites.  Many come to see the University of Pisa, which was first started in 1343.  Others flock to the Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square) to see the famous white, marbled cathedral, baptistery, and the tilting bell tower.  Of all that the city has to show, none is more memorable and curious than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or as a 1929 Scientific American article named it, the “Sinking” Tower of Pisa.

The tower was begun in August of 1173 A. D., of which they are sure.  Many of the other details are vague because they are not documented.  Who the architect was is not clear, as at least three different times, the project was resumed and then halted.

Many believe that the tower’s tilting had been discovered by the completion of the third story.  Because of battles and possibly because of the discovery of its inclination, construction was halted.  Soft river valley sediments, sand, and clay did not support its weight, and the building began leaning.  A temporary bell was placed on the third story.

There, the semi-finished building lay, year after year, halted before it was completed.  I am sure it was a laughing stock for many.

“Hey, Luigi, see that unfinished tower those foolish builders left.  Such lack of planning.  It was a waste of money and materials, and what an eyesore.  If they had only spent the time wisely on a firm foundation on which to build,” may have been the conversation of the past.

Some later levels tried to compensate for the five-degree tilt by building them off-center, on the true vertical.  Upward the white, marbled structure’s construction went.  Over the next one hundred years, construction was started and stopped.  It is believed the belfry was completed in 1350, as one of the bells in the tower is dated.

Still, the campanile leans.  All the planning, ingenuity, and decoration did not solve or even hide the problem that the building tilts more than 17 feet from its perpendicular and continues to tilt at a rate of ¼ an inch per year.

Man still has not given up.  Many attempts have been made to stop its leaning.  In the 1930’s, cement was injected through pipes inserted under the tower in hopes that the foundation would be strengthened and the leaning would cease.  The tilting continued.

Attempts were made to tie it together with cables to keep it intact.  Numerous restoration projects were begun and then discontinued.

Plans for the structure’s righting are vast.  Some call for jacking the building up six feet on one side and moving the 14,700 metric tons to a new concrete base.  The more sure method would be to dismantle the eight stories and start construction over on a thick, firm foundation.

How many lives in the past have been erected similarly?  Instead of building a life on the Rock of Ages, the Lord Jesus Christ and around the firm foundation of the Word of God (our preserved KJV Bible), people try various ways, plans, and fads to live their lives.  They spend their entire lives compensating for a life that was not founded on a firm foundation from the beginning.  Their efforts are hopeless if they are not in line with God’s plan and method.

Lives have been directed by the advice of strangers, family, television talk shows, and even from movies.  Newspaper columnists and others’ beliefs have probably directed more lives than would ever be known.  Man-made unbiblical religion has also misdirected many.

All kinds of techniques have been tried to stop problems.  Today, there are drugs to try to solve the issues of weight loss, nervousness, lack of attentiveness, feelings of loneliness, and other of life’s problems.  The hope is in a pill to fix a problem.  Psychologists’ and psychiatrists’ advice is followed, no matter how extreme or illogical it seems.  Man’s attempts to right a tilting life usually fail.

Few of these people ever seek to get the advice from their Creator, who has raised millions upon millions of children.  Father knows best, but He is rarely sought for direction, or His word followed for guidance.  No wonder so many lives are slanting to an inevitable destruction.
“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.  And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.”Matthew 7:24-27

Sin is usually the “tilting” force in one’s life.  There is a clear way to reconstruct a sin-troubled life.  That way can change one’s life.  It is the only way that works.  Man tries to change a life from the outside, hoping the inside will be altered.  God changes it from the inside, and then the outside will be transformed.  The amount of renovation is dependent on one’s obedience to God’s commands found in His Word.

When a man is saved, his life is changed.  The inward change is done in the heart.  That is why the Bible names a spiritually revitalized person as “born again”.  A life is started all over again.

He is a new creature.  All sins are forgiven and forgotten by God.  The new life can begin on a new foundation that will support the load of life’s troubles.  Guilt from sin will disappear.  An eternal penalty for past sins is gone!

This “second chance” can be achieved by admitting one’s sins.  The Bible reminds us that we are all sinners.  Not one of us has pleased God with our good works or kindness.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23

God certainly knows we are sinners.  Our confession of our guilt shows God that we are humbling ourselves and admitting our failure in doing it our way rather than His.
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9

Once our sinfulness is acknowledged, one must know that a price has been paid for our sins.  God’s only son, Jesus, paid that price.  The death He suffered on the cross was not for His sin, as He was sinless.  It was for our transgressions.  His payment is the only fee God will accept.  We cannot pay for our sinning against God by our good works or deeds.  Jesus has already paid the price.
“And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:15

Once we are saved, we are then in the family of God.  The Father can guide if the “born again” (John 3:3) child obeys Him.  A life can be salvaged and restarted.  There can be hope.  We can compensate and recover from our self-lived lives.

The world’s solutions hardly ever work, and if they do, they often work only temporarily.  God can come into a life and straighten the crooked course, and it can stay undeviated.

Build your life around the Word of God.  It is as true today as when God inspired its writing.  Since then, God has used it to raise, support, and guide millions.  It is the firm foundation.  It will never let you tilt.

“Life is a long lesson in humility.” — Barrie



Give God the Rudder
C. H. Spurgeon

I have heard of a young man who went to college, and when he was there one year, his parents said to him, “What do you know?  Do you know more than when you went?”

“Oh!  Yes,” said he, “I do.”

Then, after he attended the second year, he was asked the same question, “Do you know more than when you went?”

“Oh!  No,” said he, “I know a great deal less than I thought.”

“Well,” said the father,” you are getting somewhere now.”

Then he went to the third year and was asked the same question.  “What do you know now?”

“Oh!” said he, “I don’t think I know half as much as I should know.”

“That is right,” said the father; “you will now profit since you say you know nothing.  He who is convinced that he knows nothing of himself as he ought to know gives up steering his ship and lets God put his hand on the rudder.”

“The truest end of life is to know the life that never ends.” — William Penn