tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51513765394440938762024-02-19T07:06:38.913-08:00Reflections In LifeThis is my small niche on the net about faith, theology, family, news, politics, technology and other topicsRandy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.comBlogger153125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-16050353040728230002016-01-21T08:49:00.000-08:002016-01-21T08:50:12.640-08:00That time again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpc5PetedWMRj8sOvoNgQtpNzEIyY0VH1H-5npsbWlsITQHFReqSn_2-EJRJpXxKynqQiaDhQRJTbonDoup8hGmksJ4F2ADeosO8ulhqkZ0W7P4jn8GTiIKNdb9FYPxXcm6FCIMB8dpP3/s1600/college+just+ahead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpc5PetedWMRj8sOvoNgQtpNzEIyY0VH1H-5npsbWlsITQHFReqSn_2-EJRJpXxKynqQiaDhQRJTbonDoup8hGmksJ4F2ADeosO8ulhqkZ0W7P4jn8GTiIKNdb9FYPxXcm6FCIMB8dpP3/s200/college+just+ahead.jpg" /></a></div>It's that time. School again. I haven't really written a lot about my school experience. So, here's a short synopsis of the events as they occurred. <br />
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I had gone through a bad personal time. I had been living out west and looking forward to a new future. It didn't come to pass. So, I moved back to Ohio feeling a bit overwhelmed and defeated. I was thinking, "Where do I go from here." I knew I was relying upon God but kind of--felt lost--in my daily life.<br />
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I'd found out that others had gone back to school at my age. For a lot of my life I was in radio broadcasting. Recently I had been doing voice over work for some stations. I also had a strong interest in the Computer information technology field. I had been repairing computers, updating software and doing generalized IT work for friends and family. <br />
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It's never too late to go back to school. I needed something to distract me as well. My new future out west came to an abrupt halt. So, I "really" needed a way to get focused and move ahead. I made arrangements and met with a student advisor at the local community college. It was probably one of the best things I could have done at the time. So, I enrolled in Networking Computer Management. So, here's a guy in his fifties going back to school. I even thought I'd be older than most of the instructors. <br />
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So, in my fifties, I'm carrying a backpack and going to school. It's been a great ride for the most part. Yes, overall it's been good, only with a few bumps in the road. Then, I got a letter saying I could be inducted into the honor society of Phi Theta Kappa. After joining I was able to become President. I also became involved in the National Leadership and Success Society. For a short time I was in the Student Government as well. I'm currently carrying a 3.7 GPA. I guess that's not too bad for a guy in his fifties. <br />
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It's been a long run. It's taken a bit longer to get through it due to some health and family issues. However, the end is in sight! I have this semester with one class and I will be done! Yay! I need to give the Lord the credit for helping me pull this off. I know some would be frightened at the prospect of going back. It's funny, I didn't have that feeling. I was "gung-ho" as the saying goes. I delved right in and "went for it." Admittedly, I had some rough moments. I did well in most classes and struggled in a few. I guess that's true of anyone. <br />
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As I near the conclusion of this time in my life, I am feeling some different things. One: a bit relieved that it's about over. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad that I did it. However, with all the classes and time, it seems like it's been a long journey. Secondly: I am thrilled to be able to graduate and have completed something where I have learned a new skill set for life. <br />
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It's never too late to do something. It reminds me of an Eagles song that says, "Do Something." The song basically says don't stay idle but get out and do something. All in all, I'm happy. To be honest, I did better than I thought I would have. When you get older, sometimes, our study habits become less stringent. I had to set times to complete studies. It's all paying off. So, after I finish this semester and that degree is in my hand, I'll thank God for all he helped me to do. <br />
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Final note: If you are impressed to do something, do it. As I said before, I wondered if I could do it and with the Lord's help, I did. Plus I appreciate all of those that have been a support to me along the way. I have had many wonderful friends and family plus some great instructors along the way. I've been blessed. Now, grab my books and get ready to finish well. SDGRandy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-86037362712476460112016-01-20T20:40:00.000-08:002016-01-20T20:40:20.058-08:00Glenn Frey: A remembrance!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLQ5-tF22nngD3HI2Pb7C9qYkFCGg9JL4t4Osi0ZqUJGF0VNaxYLPEiOHZyprG_z81trgAOXKh6oI6PA0BZdfTSm5wUVUkJjyTRze5RO1VlMShEdXCfoPGmY-hEchGehi2UCC9-vqI2-2/s1600/don+and+glenn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLQ5-tF22nngD3HI2Pb7C9qYkFCGg9JL4t4Osi0ZqUJGF0VNaxYLPEiOHZyprG_z81trgAOXKh6oI6PA0BZdfTSm5wUVUkJjyTRze5RO1VlMShEdXCfoPGmY-hEchGehi2UCC9-vqI2-2/s320/don+and+glenn.jpg" /></a></div>Well, we say goodbye to Glenn Frey at the age of 67. As one of the founding members of "The Eagles" he leaves behind a lot of music and legacy. He and Don Henley did so much to form the Eagles. They were the two mainstays that wrote, produced, orchestrated and sang so many of the old songs. Sure, they had their riffs at times. Don goes on to say though they were like brothers.<br />
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I had no idea that Glenn was going through so many physical battles. I remember though listening to so much of their music through the years. Glenn and Don were a match in the writing department. With all due respect though, I think Don's voice is like velvet. Glenn's is strong though. His lead on my favorite song, "Lyin' Eyes" is always a favorite. <br />
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With technology though, the music lives on. I also loved Glenn Frey's solo release, "Strange Weather." It's still one of my personal classics that I own to this day! He will be missed. So, I'm gonna dig out some of the Eagles stuff and give it a listen again. Memories. Glenn will be missed!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-86239035540387177162016-01-20T20:11:00.000-08:002016-01-20T20:11:07.217-08:00A New Year and and some new views!Well, it's been a very long time since I've posted anything. Wow, a very long time. Since I've joined the "Facebook" crowd a long time ago, I kind of let my "blog" just go. However, I do love to write. I may only get a few that will read my blogs but that's okay. I basically write, for I love to write. <br />
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There are so many things to talk about. A lot has happened since I posted last. I do like to go back and see what I've posted in the past. It's good to look back. <br />
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So, I'm starting up again! There's only so much that can be covered in Facebook without writing a book. On here, I can write to my heart's content. I will make it known on Facebook that my blog is back. Hopefully, I can get a few to read. Plus, for those I've shared posts with, I can put your link in my blog as well. <br />
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So, get ready. I will have a lot to cover as time goes on. I'm back. This time, I hope for good!<br />
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Be well.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-39196544853302084942012-08-27T21:30:00.000-07:002012-08-27T21:30:33.684-07:00"Somebody Should Get Happy...."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxRpG_1RxWo7EqKvXOecdE_ChPYjRW2YtsxlKNAu7Vfz8LsfgAy9VdrYup4OmqydZwwiQgvdyQ4Uexnuksgp3oDlwAU7hmWnuyrDG3R2Fp88GJm20fhLG4zQoQCGTe0hyrn3VuPxdc67v/s1600/preacher+clip+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxRpG_1RxWo7EqKvXOecdE_ChPYjRW2YtsxlKNAu7Vfz8LsfgAy9VdrYup4OmqydZwwiQgvdyQ4Uexnuksgp3oDlwAU7hmWnuyrDG3R2Fp88GJm20fhLG4zQoQCGTe0hyrn3VuPxdc67v/s200/preacher+clip+art.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Pragmatism is alive and well on so-called Christian TV. Unlike solid expository preaching by MacArthur, Piper and Sproul, we have the "others." The preacher is prancing the stage. The audience isn't responding enough. So the Bible waving preacher yells out, "Somebody should get happy in this place, somebody should praise the Lord, somebody should shout!" Give me a break. I can see Paul the apostle now on Mars Hill in Athens trying to explain the resurrected Christ. He waves a scroll and prances back and forth while some converted Jews are keeping in step with the Shofars. Most of this pragmatic stuff is just that: anything that will give the result they are looking for. And....don't forget to pass the offering plate.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-20336824499738690772012-07-15T17:34:00.000-07:002012-07-15T17:34:51.042-07:00Seasons Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg69zUFmMbVKpVZzHYSLby1CxZnS9Qz0UPGi9x89u6ay_MFPMOX0YijoCHdC4boSJo-m4JCgE87pFGH_LyW-gKft8T-Jz71feCVqufOXuVz6bXWIhQHjvI6nxydQ4AWBAK-1VPg2dUB2Z-/s1600/fall+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="133" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg69zUFmMbVKpVZzHYSLby1CxZnS9Qz0UPGi9x89u6ay_MFPMOX0YijoCHdC4boSJo-m4JCgE87pFGH_LyW-gKft8T-Jz71feCVqufOXuVz6bXWIhQHjvI6nxydQ4AWBAK-1VPg2dUB2Z-/s200/fall+trees.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I had posted this a long time ago but felt it needed repeated. I want to preface by saying many don't listen to Ray Boltz anymore because of the direction he headed in his personal life. However, this song was recorded before he fell and I personally believe it can minister to us today. It does to me anyway. More importantly, I hope you read my comments as that is really the essence of what I'm trying to say.<br />
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Seasons change, don't they? My concept for today is really nothing new I guess. But have you ever wondered about the changing seasons and the ones in our own lives? I've always compared the four seasons to the seasons in our life. Work with me a minute on this, okay? In spring, we are born. In summer, we are in our adulthood making a living, having a family and we are full of life and stamina. Then autumn comes. This is the third season of our life. We start slowing down a bit and the summer days of our life are over. Then finally, winter sets in, we leave this earthly life. However, I don't want to end this on a downer. When we see Christ, it all starts over and we'll be in the spring of our life again! No, I'm not espousing some new age belief. I just think that's the way it happens.<br />
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I've been listening intently to a favorite Ray Boltz song. This CD came out around 1992. It has always been a favorite. I can't help but get a bit misty as I listen to the title track. For you see, I'm not a young man anymore. I've technically entered the fall season of my life. There are those in their seventies that tell me I'm still a kid. From their perspective, maybe so. However, I'm not the twenty or thirty year old idealistic individual that I used to be. There was a day I thought I could conquer the world. To some degree, many of my dreams have been met, some have diminished and some never came to fruition. These days I'm more realistic. However, I still have dreams that I hope come about in the next few years if the Lord allows unless he returns first.<br />
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I can't help but think of King David in Psalm 37 where he said, "I have been young, now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his children begging bread." David had seen much in his life. He was the shepherd boy, the young lad that slew the giant, the mighty soldier going off to war, the servant running from the madman Saul, becoming King, and finally the old man that wrote those wonderful words in Psalms. I know I'll never be a King David. However, as I ponder on things these days, I just want to be where God wants me. I have three desires in my life. If God allows them, I'll be so happy. However, if the Lord never gave me one more thing, he has given me so much in this life I could never thank him enough.<br />
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I've had my fun in the summer sun, enjoyed years of fruitful ministry, known love and even lost love, but ultimately I know a God that loves me so. Yes, our seasons change. However, our God does not! He is the same, wonderful, kind, gracious, loving God through Jesus Christ. Seasons change. They are meant to be that way. So it is with our lives. I hope I come to a point that I don't despise the autumn season of my life, but embrace it fully. Ray sings in the song, "the blessings are worth the pain." I wouldn't want to relive some of the hard lessons I've had to learn in life. Especially this last decade. So, friends, remember the seasons come. And...each one has their own special blessings. Be well.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-52847845946710657682012-07-13T16:21:00.000-07:002012-07-13T16:47:08.891-07:00Not My Will...but thine?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQn5XqZOndP3IJ-PV-dDZyjU9jy_VmpUusacTvOI3NN9nIyLGGwu0ilcSoDA9aZWOaYe2PBbcohBH1HC5nf9gONcCq-ldMll7LhSkFK6Fj8rk6DgNwfKjOHw9lWvI2PwACbM1CLNKASV0P/s1600/jesus+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQn5XqZOndP3IJ-PV-dDZyjU9jy_VmpUusacTvOI3NN9nIyLGGwu0ilcSoDA9aZWOaYe2PBbcohBH1HC5nf9gONcCq-ldMll7LhSkFK6Fj8rk6DgNwfKjOHw9lWvI2PwACbM1CLNKASV0P/s200/jesus+garden.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I was thinking of Jesus in the garden. The thought kept going on, "not my will but yours be done." <br />
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You see, obedience isn't easy. I have to admit that sometimes my carnal man doesn't like the idea of God having His way and me obeying it. Does that sound bad? Maybe. In ourselves without the Holy Spirit having His way, we want things to go our way. I sometimes believe that even depression happens when we don't get our way. Things don't work out the way we planned, it rained on our parade, someone said something unbecoming to us, we got turned down for the promotion, I didn't get that gift I wanted, ad infinitum.<br />
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There were things that happened to me in the past six months that called for my obedience. I wondered how God was going to pull this off. I wondered if being obedient was the right thing to even do. I finally came to the realization that if I obeyed God that I knew I would be in right fellowship with him again. After making the decision to becoming obedient, I then faced some opposition that made my situation seem worse, not better. I moved back to Ohio and knew I had done God's will. But things were falling apart on me. Things were breaking down, my stress was horrible and other factors made me think: "This is what I get for being obedient?"<br />
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Here's the rub: Just because we are obedient doesn't automatically make our situation better. Sometimes I wonder if we think that by being obedient that the skies will turn blue, the financial problem goes away, our health returns and all is fine. Sometimes it does, other times it doesn't.<br />
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Is God still good? Rhetorical. But he is. I know this much: by being obedient it may not always change things around us, but it will change "us!" And I know that being in God's will is far better than being outside His will. I'd much rather go through things being in His will than going through them outside His will. It's always better to do right and have God be pleased than to think we can do it by ourselves and mess the whole thing up.<br />
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Incidentally, many may think that Jesus was trying to get out of going to the Cross. Actually I believe that Jesus was hoping that He didn't die that night for it would thwart what He needed to do and go to the Cross to redeem us. In my life I want to come to a place where I know that even though being obedient may not always bring a quick blessing, it will keep me closer to God and that's where we all need to be.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-62242401293395409582012-07-12T04:52:00.001-07:002012-07-12T04:52:40.021-07:00Wrestling With God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCEOuUcOrKGsUWnRF1_loKx0FR4K6hgN08d9C9b6gfzrhBaI-Z-KumZGLnaGtsnNDg07ONRDd3A8u7T1AJe-vpj3WrNeT5k8x3N5oKZNaW9LJ7a2njLnjcqMShtETgOGNgHVzGyjw3OwK/s1600/Jacob+angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCEOuUcOrKGsUWnRF1_loKx0FR4K6hgN08d9C9b6gfzrhBaI-Z-KumZGLnaGtsnNDg07ONRDd3A8u7T1AJe-vpj3WrNeT5k8x3N5oKZNaW9LJ7a2njLnjcqMShtETgOGNgHVzGyjw3OwK/s200/Jacob+angel.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Many of us know the story of Jacob wrestling with God. After the match, he was told his name would no longer be called Jacob but Israel. And...Jacob had to walk with a limp afterwards. <br />
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The lesson I learn from this is that sometimes we want our own way and in a spiritual sense we "wrestle" with God. And sometimes, our wrestling with God causes us to grow but from that battle we may walk with a limp. I'll make the story even more inviting.<br />
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The story is told of a shepherd that will tend his sheep. If one sheep tends to go astray too often, the shepherd will take that one sheep and "break" one of his legs. The leg heals and the sheep walks with a limp but will never leave the fold again. <br />
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I think sometimes that is what God has to do with us. There are times we stray, we walk away from God or we desire "our" own way too much. When will we learn that doing it God's way is always better. But, God loves us so much that if we do get "out of line" God will break us for our own good. Sure, we'll walk with a limp, but how much better to never leave the side of God again. I know, I'd much rather walk with a limp and be in God's fold than to go it alone without him.<br />
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So, if you're struggling today, and you are wondering what God is doing in your life, maybe God is molding and mending you into His way. It's difficult to praise God in times like that. But if we can see the outcome that we'll stay close to the Father, then it'll all be worth it. Blessings to you all.<br />
<br />Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-91589089680364578582012-06-11T14:03:00.000-07:002012-06-11T14:03:32.052-07:00Joe Walsh: Believer, New Ager or Twelve Stepper<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehdX3Qz9yH2kvryYv7HUj8IK6WeougtB7PrdhZiu-TwjUSHGYi_TW4pK23b-roNzGapIWg2K8qIuEKHAxRpxYGMxtFa55mS_6gZa6HyVN3YYkznngY7R6YYDeJuLPAKMKlEAGzSOUWuTy/s1600/joe+walsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="92" width="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehdX3Qz9yH2kvryYv7HUj8IK6WeougtB7PrdhZiu-TwjUSHGYi_TW4pK23b-roNzGapIWg2K8qIuEKHAxRpxYGMxtFa55mS_6gZa6HyVN3YYkznngY7R6YYDeJuLPAKMKlEAGzSOUWuTy/s200/joe+walsh.jpg" /></a><br />
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It’s been a few years ago when the Eagles released a DVD set called “The Farewell Tour.” Now, I’ve always appreciated Joe Walsh for his musical talent on the guitar. His vocals are okay but not to the standard of Don Henley or Glenn Frey. But, he can still carry his own. During the concert he “set up” a new song called, “One Day At A Time.” He basically said that the alcohol was destroying him and he had to quit. I didn’t know how this song would go over as people in the world don’t want to be preached to. But, he did the song and I thought it was okay. I’m glad Joe beat his drinking.<br />
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Back about a week ago Joe released his new solo project called, “Analog Man.” It’s typically Joe Walsh. I’ve listened to it and I admit I love the sound of it and I’ve grown accustomed to his voice after all these years. What kind of got me about the CD were a few things. He did record the studio version of the song mentioned above which I thought was good. Then, he sings a song about “Family.” He talks about his blessings; about, “giving thanks, saying grace and breaking bread.” So it sounds like Joe has come full course in his life. He says he loves living in California and the things that he’s been blessed with. It made me think though, “Did he become a believer?” But, I’m never that easily convinced. He made this statement: “At Otatara Pa in 2004 Walsh said, "This is a special place, and it is very special to me. It was here on a visit many years ago, up on the hills, that I had a moment of clarity. I don't understand it, but I reconnected with my soul, and I remembered who I used to be. I admitted I had problems and I had to do something about it. It was the beginning of my recovery from my addiction to alcohol and drugs, and when I got back to America it gave me the courage to seek help." The lines, “I reconnected with my soul” bother me. For as believers we know we are never “not” connected with our soul unless we die. Unless he just meant it in a figurative sense. And he also said “when he got back to America.” So, was he in a lotus position in India somewhere?<br />
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Then, Walsh married Marjorie Bach, sister of Barbara Bach in Los Angeles on December 13, 2008, making him a brother-in-law of Ringo Starr. Now, after doing some reading on Starr, I don’t know how much New Age Ringo actually believes in or if he’s had any effect on Joe. But Joe had enough effect of his own I’m sure. This brings me to my final points. In this day and age it seems we need to be careful what we watch and listen too. Those who know me know that I’m not a legalist. However, as Paul the apostle said, “All things all lawful for me, but all things are not helpful.” I Cor 6:12. It’s not my job to tell anyone what music to listen to. That’s between them and the Lord. I would personally only encourage someone to really seek the Lord on that matter and let the Holy Spirit do His job in our conscience.<br />
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With that said, Joe ends his CD with an instrumental track. It’s heavily percussion, drum and guitar oriented. I’d expect nothing less than that from Walsh. Now I have to admit I really like this song. But, when I listen to it, I get just a little bit of a weird vibe for two reasons. And again, I’m not a person who sees a demon behind every bush or a legalist. But the song is called, “India.” And we know largely what religions are held in India. And the actual sound of that song has that very strong “Indian” feel to it. I so much want to like it, but it takes me back a bit. Earlier I spoke of his song where he talks about giving thanks, breaking bread and saying grace. But, he ends with this song. I think you know where I am headed. Did Joe just reunite with his New Age beliefs? After all, he said, “I reconnected with my soul.” It wouldn’t surprise me if he bought into the new age beliefs once again. <br />
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I guess that’s between him and the Lord. All we can do is pray and really hope that some are truly saved and didn’t buy into a false bill of goods. Sure, I’ll listen to the CD. There’s some good material on it. I might have to leave the last song alone. But, you may listen to it and go, “Man this thing rocks” and not give it a second thought. With that, here’s the synopsis. When we look at current events in the world, it’s not hard to see which way the world is headed. The Lord warns us about things and the way we should approach our lives. We are to look at our lives and examine what we do, say and think about the matters we have with the Lord. I do hope that Joe is a believer. Again, though, he’s made no profession other than reconnecting with his soul and he quit drinking. Even in the song about the alcohol, he just sings, “I just got down on my knees and said ‘hey’.” Well who was he praying too? So, if you are so inclined, listen to the CD. If not, that’s okay too. For those that I tagged in this note, I’d sure love your comments. Especially my musician friends Joel Griffith, Kevin Johnson and Dwayne Barker. I do trust you guys and your viewpoints. May the peace of Christ be with you always.<br />Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-75161642134363661052012-05-07T09:48:00.000-07:002012-05-07T10:05:58.798-07:00What In the World Is Going On?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvlDISfv2QHUX8iMOex9bkHLgvITwfW7vje5TTf6R_LEQEVnixhjn2xnHxS2CAQUV3T7ZkY2avNM780sJhTMnxwJTQfUzfh2hDtlv7WmRxDrup_f-FnLI81ohCs4uupIu2pYMXIGt7Bhp/s1600/Joel+Osteen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvlDISfv2QHUX8iMOex9bkHLgvITwfW7vje5TTf6R_LEQEVnixhjn2xnHxS2CAQUV3T7ZkY2avNM780sJhTMnxwJTQfUzfh2hDtlv7WmRxDrup_f-FnLI81ohCs4uupIu2pYMXIGt7Bhp/s200/Joel+Osteen.jpg" /></a></div>I've seriously neglected this blog for a very long time. As noted in earlier writings I know I don't have but a couple readers here and there. And that's quite okay. I mainly write for a few reasons. One: my absolute love for writing. Two: It's nice to look back and to see what I was thinking at that given moment in time. It also helps me correlate events with the dates the actions took place. So if anything, it's an outlet that I do enjoy. So, I'm going to try to do a better job of keeping this blog up to date. Recently I had to go through and revise some older posts and delete some as they are no longer relevant to my life anymore. I think I'll be hitting home many of the ideas I have. Being the conservative person I am I know some of my comments will rankle the liberals I've known in my life. But I know where I stand. And if anyone has a disagreement, they can start their own blog and write just as much as any of the rest of us do as well. <br />
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With all that is going on in this world, especially our country, it makes one wonder "What in the world is going on?" We are facing an election and really we don't have a good candidate to vote for. We either vote for the socialist and Muslim sympathizer, or we vote for the man who ciphers money to his cult in Salt Lake City. Then we have the Muslims using our freedoms to propagate their cause. It's outrageous that they will use our freedoms to push their intolerant beliefs. For if you don't agree with them, they believe they have a right to get us out of the way. We also have Cheshire cat smiling Joel Osteen back-peddling when he is asked if he believes that Jesus is the only way to heaven. He also squirms when asked about sin. Not even Fred Astaire could do the same dance moves old Smiley does when confronted with theological issues. I'd respect Osteen a lot more if he'd come right out and say "I'm a motivational speaker who happens to believe in God." But, for those of us who really believe in the Lord, we know that we must speak the "whole" truth. Joel can fill auditoriums because he "tickles the ears" of the listeners. If he really preached the truth, maybe the building wouldn't be as full. A long time ago someone told me, "Just because a person can fill up an auditorium doesn't necessarily mean God's blessing is upon them. Preachers and teachers are held to a higher standard. <br />
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Then we have good old Vice prez Biden that believes in same sex marriage. Zero is signing executive orders out the wazoo and people just look the other way. Sure, I'm going to be called a "doomsday" person. It's quite okay. But I do know when it's all said and done, I'm on the winning side. Also there are those that go to an Osteen type of church that says we should just talk about all the good, sweet and kind things. There are those that only want the "nice" Jesus. Well, you can't dissect the Lord. You either take all of what He said and done or you take none of it. Yes, I'm glad that the Lord loved us enough to die for us. But, He is holy too. There are some believers that don't even know that he made a whip of cords and drove out the money changers from the temple and said "You won't make my Father's house a den of thieves." This is the same Jesus that also rebuked the Pharisees calling them a "brood of vipers", "snakes", and "shiny white coffins that looked good but were full of dead men's bones." <br />
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In these latter days it's no wonder people are looking for ways of escape. They down more alcohol, smoke more doobies and give in to their base desires. They truly want to "escape." I do understand it. But, the only true answer is found in giving your life over to the Lord. We are in dark days. And I can only imagine they are going to get worse. I am not mad at the scoffers. Actually I feel sorry for them. They are rejecting the only thing that can save them from being eternally lost. Paul the apostle wrote, "Today is the day of salvation, now is the accepted time." My take on all of this is simple. If I am to go through some hard times I'd much rather go through it being in God's will than being outside of it. I've been both ways. The chastening hand of the Lord isn't easy but if it draws us closer to him and we clean up our acts, we have a way through all of this. I firmly believe the heat is being turned up. I know with whatever time the Lord gives me now, that I'm about my Father's business. Yes, there's a lot going on in this world. The bottom line will be: What did we do with Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God? Jesus did say that if you weren't for Him, you were against Him. There's no middle ground. Today we have choices we can make that can affect our future. I know when he returns, I want to be found faithful. What about you?Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-33418120454519648002012-01-16T08:11:00.000-08:002012-01-16T08:31:00.391-08:00Green Bay Does It To Themselves<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRYOVuVs0GC-rOYdtL2BgJHxYelthRhKNjjIcZx3yzGkW_2wOWcoHKANNQMd1fTI1Eoq7YnJqW-HPLypT66Ic8cDhijkd9FmibnJe9udPQUo9xXmmE6HnJN0ZSW9ej7d2GQmd9t7UYd63/s1600/gb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRYOVuVs0GC-rOYdtL2BgJHxYelthRhKNjjIcZx3yzGkW_2wOWcoHKANNQMd1fTI1Eoq7YnJqW-HPLypT66Ic8cDhijkd9FmibnJe9udPQUo9xXmmE6HnJN0ZSW9ej7d2GQmd9t7UYd63/s200/gb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698268205175805410" /></a><br />Well, it's over. For me anyway. Football for the year is done. Man, I love Green Bay but if they played every week like they did yesterday, you'd never know they were last year's Super Bowl Champions. Maybe it was that they had a couple of weeks off without playing. But, I don't want to give them an "excuse" for losing. With all due credit to the Giants, they played an incredible game. Green Bay pretty much beat themselves. Of course, technically, the Giants beat Green Bay. But most of you get my drift. <br /><br />If San Francisco takes it that would be alright. But again, it really doesn't matter to me now. I have to refocus. It's only a game. I know how on edge I got during the World Series and the Rangers went down the way they did. In two games they were one strike away from winning and blew it. I used to laugh at those that got emotionally charged at a game. Then I found myself doing it. Well, now I can relax. Green Bay is out and I really don't mind who wins it now. As the old saying goes, "there are bigger fish to fry." <br /><br />Sure, sports can be an escape and that's fine. But, when you look at the news, and the state of our nation, there are bigger things to take my attention. Well, it's a Monday. The start of a new week. And...Our God is good!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-1672781173271305752012-01-15T09:02:00.000-08:002012-01-15T09:23:09.154-08:00Denver goes down, My hope is Green Bay<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-9pyiXOaa0KVWffJmCFr_bY0VfDcdgYSG8pLG9h3DFuAmmBKiJiR-rLt00aiQ1rHPrkZGANyxFft0RTOJqzIVkb6EEDmQTM9fFxHyOHLwYcr9-otxzsL-ooQgGzLO45IaCBGMJdpODcW/s1600/brady.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-9pyiXOaa0KVWffJmCFr_bY0VfDcdgYSG8pLG9h3DFuAmmBKiJiR-rLt00aiQ1rHPrkZGANyxFft0RTOJqzIVkb6EEDmQTM9fFxHyOHLwYcr9-otxzsL-ooQgGzLO45IaCBGMJdpODcW/s200/brady.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697908514085904770" /></a><br /><br />Well, it was a beating. Not just a game, but a beating. Denver lost to New England by the score of 45 to 10. However, I have to give credit to Tom Brady that he did play an amazing game.<br />The news read:<br /><br />"Tom Brady calls signals in Foxborough on Saturday during his record-setting six-TD performance in the Patriots' 45-10 rout of Tim Tebow and the Broncos." So if you're a fan of Denver or not, Brady pulled off a fine performance in last night's game.<br /><br />We could go on and on about the media shark pool going after Tebow. That's been debated enough and I'll let it go at that. However, my big game is today. Green Bay with home advantage takes on the New York Giants. The Giants really beat the Falcons in a big way with their win over them by 24 to 2. Sure, I'm hoping that Green Bay wins. It would be great to see Green Bay win two years in a row in the Super Bowl. However, I am a realist. They could go down. Even if they do, they had a great season and played well. If they do win the Super Bowl, I will be elated. <br /><br />What would be interesting if Green Bay pulls off a win against New York they would then play San Francisco. That was an amazing game in itself against New Orleans. It went back and forth towards the end. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLg3nD8vNC1mU89ZcZuD3UtsLrxyhU8K0pfaajYXZLDonaPib_HKkeipRQZR6W46NTwZKz6zKLdGQ53H0sA2G4BC4itQIjwNuetHnGeb3qCOnJvKdeFSUM1rMQIG6iBe6dfWqf4JfHkRq/s1600/gb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLg3nD8vNC1mU89ZcZuD3UtsLrxyhU8K0pfaajYXZLDonaPib_HKkeipRQZR6W46NTwZKz6zKLdGQ53H0sA2G4BC4itQIjwNuetHnGeb3qCOnJvKdeFSUM1rMQIG6iBe6dfWqf4JfHkRq/s200/gb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697908656004722978" /></a><br /><br />Also, if San Francisco does beat Green Bay if the Pack gets to play them, I'll still go for San Fran the rest of the way. I normally want any team that beats Green Bay to lose. But in this case, I defer to change my thinking. Not that any of us has done that! Grin.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JpIYW-AujxApVw-xVTrHDJBjrPVtgP1HHJ63mxv0YM0O8FyqZCs_5gVjtwlkKNPBWYJq-Zqdct-cymWMBnZWoqqX9VzwFpBMQ-wCYzh0ybPfg7kW_H3tDpaWERR4JP0YEBzQ8_8wcfBW/s1600/a+san+fran+49.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JpIYW-AujxApVw-xVTrHDJBjrPVtgP1HHJ63mxv0YM0O8FyqZCs_5gVjtwlkKNPBWYJq-Zqdct-cymWMBnZWoqqX9VzwFpBMQ-wCYzh0ybPfg7kW_H3tDpaWERR4JP0YEBzQ8_8wcfBW/s200/a+san+fran+49.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697909599583828946" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I know it's only a football game. And many don't like sports. That's okay. However, there are a lot of worse things to watch, like reality TV shows! Ugh. Anyway, I hope Rodgers and company can hold their own and take down the Giants as David took down that dreaded Philistine. On tomorrow's blog I will be rejoicing or lamenting. Ha. Have a great weekend.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-14484282155946455452011-12-31T12:21:00.001-08:002011-12-31T12:28:38.629-08:00Happy New Year 2012<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Qyf5j14RG7LCwrRo7KLgxD12_X4MewVww5HUJMWkSOUrezVHEX07hiET1n9H0hLZ-OhL49dSTCo4RVuIf3mQgWvfZc3-k_ukVZ-u5Cx69ldnvF1At47TGrs06Q2BXMhyphenhyphen-1-egxVBK9zX/s1600/HPNY+2012.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Qyf5j14RG7LCwrRo7KLgxD12_X4MewVww5HUJMWkSOUrezVHEX07hiET1n9H0hLZ-OhL49dSTCo4RVuIf3mQgWvfZc3-k_ukVZ-u5Cx69ldnvF1At47TGrs06Q2BXMhyphenhyphen-1-egxVBK9zX/s200/HPNY+2012.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692391952650578722" /></a><br />Well, we are a day away from the New Year. As always, people are making their new year resolutions. And there are some that are giving themselves a reason to party and to be in debauchery. As if they need a reason. But, as the New Year enters, people are going through their hangovers and the resolutions fail, so goes the show.<br /><br />My attitude for 2012? Those of us that believe in our Lord Jesus Christ will strive to be closer and more like our Lord in the New Year. There are many things too that face us financially, physically and spiritually. Our country too is in dire straits. I remind myself that with each New Year that God is in control. He has my life in His hands and I trust in Him. <br /><br />2011 was a difficult year for many people. I pray that we all draw closer to our Lord for the next year. Things on this earth are happening at an exponential speed. I firmly believe that the clock is pointing even closer to the coming our our Lord. May we be found closer to Him and doing what He has called us to do. <br /><br />He is the one firm foundation we can all rely on. Plus in closing I'm grateful for the things the Lord has seen me through. I rely on His grace daily. Who knows what this new year will hold. All I know is that I want to be closer to Him than ever. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Blessings!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-1875603802309058652011-12-30T12:33:00.000-08:002011-12-30T20:57:26.335-08:00The Political Mess<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidBFnM4s5Bhsb0yIZtMhVHPq5ziR02Fu_caSfKu_HJjtl3ZNhHhm6GmYQ3W0_HcBeS-ew5qFkypBqOWhwWvPNB26tGX45ciT81OZXgx2Mz1B86bh7hMMW8sxK7JjJXzQlbt-zQWviB-IU/s1600/GOP.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 75px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidBFnM4s5Bhsb0yIZtMhVHPq5ziR02Fu_caSfKu_HJjtl3ZNhHhm6GmYQ3W0_HcBeS-ew5qFkypBqOWhwWvPNB26tGX45ciT81OZXgx2Mz1B86bh7hMMW8sxK7JjJXzQlbt-zQWviB-IU/s200/GOP.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692027448283101842" /></a><br /><br />Today, just as a primer, I'm getting back in the groove of writing. I didn't think I'd miss this little blog of mine. But after looking back over past posts I had forgotten some of the things I had written and remembering some events that occurred on certain dates. I have a fondness for writing even if no one else reads it at all. I had a couple readers at one time. But, I write more for the joy of it than for it to be read by others. However, if you do read it, I'm more than thrilled. Today, I'm just posting a thought or two and I'll really dig in more this weekend or the first of the week.<br /><br />I'm thinking of the political mess that's going on. I have noticed on Facebook a lot of comments concerning the GOP runners. It doesn't seem we have any real solid contenders to take lead. One of my friends, Joel, said we cannot find another Reagan. Boy, has he got that right. Plus, who'd want all that scrutiny anyway? I was wondering why someone would want to run and possibly take over the great mess that the current administration has us in? Really, who would want that job? Rhetorical? Maybe not. There seems to be plenty who'd love to be the leader of the country. <br /><br />I had just finished watching the series on "John Adams." This was a pivotal time for our country. Adams was overlooked I think in the big picture. He did a lot to help this country become a free nation, independent,and to help in the Declaration and so much more. We came real close for the Declaration to "not" even come into being. Back then, these founders would rather have suffered in many ways for they believed in freedom so much. They didn't worry about the press, polls and other such things. They had this dream of being a republic. Many put their lives on the line to secure the freedom of this nation. <br /><br />What we have today is those that run for the office and many do it for the wrong reason. They will waffle on their opinions and views just to get elected. And it takes enormous amounts of money to get them the "highest seat in the land." Oh, how we have fallen so. I'm not saying our Founding Fathers were perfect. They certainly were not. They had their faults. They wanted freedom but thought owning slaves was okay. That's just one example. There are more. <br /><br />We are in perilous times. High unemployment, businesses closing, the dollar at a low, our Triple A rating shot, et.al. Again, I don't know why someone would want the job. But, someone has to do it. And I hope it's someone that has a conviction in their heart for God and His precepts. I think it was in the movie on Adams where someone said, "If men were angels we'd have no need for government." How true.<br /><br />Finally, I certainly believe we are closing in on the end times. Where we are at on the prophetical clock "exactly" I don't know. I DO know we are close. As believers we are called to pray for those in authority. We may not like who is in there, but we are called to pray. And let's pray that whomever is elected that we continue to pray. Really when it all boils down it comes down to this for me: Even so come quickly Lord Jesus. When He eventually rules from the Throne of David, it will be in righteousness. Have a great weekend everyone. And, it sure felt good to type again. I smile as I end this post! Be well all.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-44320344273279779162011-12-30T06:38:00.000-08:002011-12-30T08:26:22.365-08:00Making The Return<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3autSDzcRaIkTofPDahuN-rnklghazUqryj9aBQaDNQ26oLddKtY-l_9Og5R-ff0qr93G9AAZJIYl8EpYwn-HkFLlhy9UeNyKaSJuNos6VUDMyi-QkHk61wydYtjmOZF1MbhE8nOvGUQ/s1600/100_1349.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3autSDzcRaIkTofPDahuN-rnklghazUqryj9aBQaDNQ26oLddKtY-l_9Og5R-ff0qr93G9AAZJIYl8EpYwn-HkFLlhy9UeNyKaSJuNos6VUDMyi-QkHk61wydYtjmOZF1MbhE8nOvGUQ/s200/100_1349.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691939142774792082" /></a><br />Okay, no news flash here! I've seriously neglected this blog as I said before. And, maybe I will be the only one who reads it. But, as I looked through this blog it jogged my memory of so many things. I think I want to write again! I got so hooked on Facebook that I dumped this entirely, not consciously though. On Facebook we can write notes and make comments, but on here I can truly write what I feel. And of course, you my friends, if you do read it may have differing opinions than mine. But, that makes us all unique. I respect those that have other viewpoints. I just sense this need to write again. As always, it will be a hodgepodge of different topics like theology, faith, sports, music and movies. So, in the title, "I'm back!"Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-25319180488225212962009-07-22T20:14:00.000-07:002009-07-22T20:24:57.861-07:00Taco Bell Blues<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPYrRR08GnbBkDvllJ1r9d_4A7NcbNDUA9uVo-cTR0e64bBeiV3Md4WlJbrRxk2A3WI9adFxpIspTP9o6pIoH78YZm7HvEruLiVmahv1w-50Q5JjYTsbqySEYp2oVj5YLoCyJs_xSs7qO/s1600-h/taco-bell-pd.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 79px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPYrRR08GnbBkDvllJ1r9d_4A7NcbNDUA9uVo-cTR0e64bBeiV3Md4WlJbrRxk2A3WI9adFxpIspTP9o6pIoH78YZm7HvEruLiVmahv1w-50Q5JjYTsbqySEYp2oVj5YLoCyJs_xSs7qO/s200/taco-bell-pd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361490958790042978" /></a><br />I loved the old Taco Bell commercials when they had the Taco Bell chihuahua. Well, Gidget passed away Tuesday at fifteen. I never knew though that the dog was female. I loved the sayings, "Yo Quiero Taco Bell" and "Viva Gorditas." I had two of the stuffed dogs. I don't know what happened to them. Anyway those were some of the best commercials. <br /><br />I even created a character dog on Photoshop called "Chico." My inspiration came from the Taco Bell dog. The Taco Bell commercials with that dog were too funny. It sure beats the commercials that my friend Roger and I can't stand that go "Go meat!" from Hillshire Farms. Oh man, I couldn't take that commercial. Neither could Roger on Big Doofus' blog. However, I'll never forget those classic Taco Bell dog commercials.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-26726911155510497632009-07-18T19:54:00.000-07:002009-07-18T20:24:09.491-07:00Canine Lessons Revisited!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWpbaoi0GN3KfTAV4ws_rAr0lDls6wD2uNPNRfJbe4qs61qcRgqJCmQKRQPnkXtNlcY4Lhs-Z_OdIyIXFl-OnGKtlRlZu5TguOhlGbm_Clvo5NKfn_coi7G2sutrGZo8ME-p279CM-dRc/s1600-h/friendly_pals.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWpbaoi0GN3KfTAV4ws_rAr0lDls6wD2uNPNRfJbe4qs61qcRgqJCmQKRQPnkXtNlcY4Lhs-Z_OdIyIXFl-OnGKtlRlZu5TguOhlGbm_Clvo5NKfn_coi7G2sutrGZo8ME-p279CM-dRc/s200/friendly_pals.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359999804209806130" /></a><br /><em>This is a repeat. But, my brother enjoyed it so much. Today he reminded me that I wrote it. Frankly I forgot that I had. He said it was the ending that had him in stitches. Well, here it is again. Enjoy!</em><br /><br /><br />Okay, I'll fess up! Tonight I was somewhat bewildered with a person. Like that would be the first time it happened, not! I have the mistaken notion that if I'm always nice, other people will be too. Not gonna happen. However, I still think it's contagious to be nice and maybe a larger percentage of people will be nice in return. But, this man wasn't going to budge. Have you ever heard the saying, "His face is so long he could eat oats out of a half-inch gas pipe?" Ha. I did everything but cartwheels (and please don't ask me to do that) to be friendly. It wasn't going to work that way.<br /><br />Later I thought about an old proverb we've all heard, I think we have anyway. "Walk softly around others for you don't know what burdens they are carrying." I guess I didn't think about that sooner. Maybe he's going through some tough ordeal. Maybe something rankled him today. Did he lose something precious to him? A myriad of things popped up as I thought about it. Or maybe he's, just, well, miserable. Some people just are. It's sad.<br /><br />I admit I have my days too. Things don't go according to plan, a snag gets put in the way or something justs goes haywire. So, that's why I put the picture above. If these two canines can get along as pals...where does the human race fit in? The word Homo Sapien comes from the Latin meaning, "wise man" or "knowing man." Then, why does it take the animal kingdom sometimes to show us "humans" simple things? You come home, and there's the family dog waiting to greet you! Unconditional love. But, "we" humans tend to forget, don't we? I know I do at times.<br /><br />So, I don't know what was under this man's skin tonight. I confess, I need to understand more at times. And...by chance...if the guy was just a misanthropic soul like Jack Nicholson was in "As Good As It Gets", all we can do is pray. Plus, not become the same way.<br /><br />I love the picture above. I can just hear the one saying to the other, "Hey Brutus, It'll be okay, Fifi just didn't love you, but there's always someone else. Have you thought of dating Biddy?" Brutus replies, "Rambo, Biddy is a terrier, I can't go there. Maybe I'll go down to the shelter and see if Zoe isn't busy. She's a bit wired, but all chihuahuas can't be that way!" <br /><br />Okay, maybe my story fell flat, but at least enjoy the pic! Be well all.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-66213757774447754002009-07-07T14:01:00.000-07:002009-07-07T14:19:54.725-07:00The Means And Opportunity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0N2WW-0y4b9t7y-RVYwlsnOgsFf9Bm7qG02jnjkaEZU0x6cG8Q-Etu7K-RSbgTCEKscHXtfgB1qJm2l-qfBfm991H8SPJ8OC8XvnjBO9uh_PzHSvWq9UFcy5TviX60cPBvaCZoXP3dlS/s1600-h/michael+in+blue.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0N2WW-0y4b9t7y-RVYwlsnOgsFf9Bm7qG02jnjkaEZU0x6cG8Q-Etu7K-RSbgTCEKscHXtfgB1qJm2l-qfBfm991H8SPJ8OC8XvnjBO9uh_PzHSvWq9UFcy5TviX60cPBvaCZoXP3dlS/s200/michael+in+blue.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355830993583809394" /></a><br />Today was the memorial of Michael Jackson. Obviously unless someone is hidden in a cave somewhere, everyone knows about his demise. I just wanted to make a couple of observations.<br /><br />Everyone on the face of the earth is born in God's image. Regardless of rich, poor, skilled, unskilled, celebrity, farmer, attorney: We all are human and made in the image of God. Plus, we all face the same questions in life and desire some of the same needs. Doesn't everyone desire to be loved and accepted? My question is rhetorical at best. The obvious answer is "yes."<br /><br />I'm reminded of the old children's game that goes:<br /><br />Gypsy, Gypsy, tell it me<br />What’s my fortune going to be?<br />Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor,<br />Rich Man, Poor Man, Beggar Man, Thief<br />Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief.<br />Tell me, tell me, tell me true.<br />When I’m grown what will I do?<br /><br />So regardless of our lot in life, we all want to be loved and accepted. That is unless the person is a total sociopath. (But, even then, I think before they get to that point, they wanted the same thing.) So, celebrities are no different.<br /><br />My second point seems rather simple but I'll throw it in anyway. Many celebrities suffer from the human condition like the rest of us. But, because of status, means, money and opportunity, they can destroy their lives much more quickly. Think of Elvis Presley as an example. He dabbled in mysticism and drugs. The latter did him in. So, in Michael Jackson's case, he probably suffered emotionally and used his money to try to find the answers to the things that troubled him. I think the same can be said of Howard Hughes, Judy Garland and so many others. <br /><br />Bottom line, we all need Christ. So a person can do many things. They can come to the cross of Christ and be saved. Or, they can go on a life-long search burning up time, money and energy looking for a way to be at peace. Unfortunately, many don't want to yield to the authority of Christ. So they try it their own way. And, we know, (those of us who know Christ anyway) that man doing it their own way just leads to frustration and being separated from God.<br /><br />God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. As far as Michael Jackson is concerned, of course God only knows if he was a believer. But, the scriptures say "by their fruits you will know them." It doesn't look good. Maybe it's good that some people don't get fame, fortune and money. For if they did, they could destroy themselves faster. It's better to have little and to know Christ than to have plenty and leave it all behind. We all know the verse, "What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?" (paraphrase.) May the peace of Christ be with you all.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-22128949051748498552009-07-03T06:45:00.000-07:002009-07-03T08:21:34.522-07:00Fourth Of July<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6HtGj8dMBoZ31uuAtI0ZmtkkEFDEJ4rePjg4Qqt9iC5yaC9GZYOsichd26LJD3y-7vCd-VLM6uKzrg4ulLuJFIKJAQlexl7cT_WTvcQFOFrJQMRsrhSt1gZNEwhhnBV8CYHtrcFO3Cu8/s1600-h/4th+flag.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6HtGj8dMBoZ31uuAtI0ZmtkkEFDEJ4rePjg4Qqt9iC5yaC9GZYOsichd26LJD3y-7vCd-VLM6uKzrg4ulLuJFIKJAQlexl7cT_WTvcQFOFrJQMRsrhSt1gZNEwhhnBV8CYHtrcFO3Cu8/s200/4th+flag.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354231934952630610" /></a><br />It really goes without saying about the real reason for the fourth of July. My commentary is simple. I have nothing against people seeing one another, a parade, a firework or two, etc. But, I hope that the new generation of young people growing up remember what this day really stands for. Sure, our country has its share of problems, but I hope we never forget the freedoms that we still enjoy. Some of those freedoms seem to be eroding day by day. May we remember what tomorrow really stands for and be thankful for a God that allows us to still live in a country, albeit with problems, that is still greater than so much of the rest of the world. Happy Fourth Of July everyone!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-44796982606627935262009-06-29T11:16:00.001-07:002009-06-29T11:34:23.591-07:00Madoff And Remorse<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRVScw0R7Ky74vyknEblSNPTUcltBKv-5CqIqhWT4ICVFRY65W1CWLkaKmG7cs9eU3Rrh5E7-s0p1g_st2BrPIxLFXrpYbZ0nPXVkknjmZsrItbMgCBrIuZdBIaGaZ28GQkKxqkS4enK6/s1600-h/madoff1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 115px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRVScw0R7Ky74vyknEblSNPTUcltBKv-5CqIqhWT4ICVFRY65W1CWLkaKmG7cs9eU3Rrh5E7-s0p1g_st2BrPIxLFXrpYbZ0nPXVkknjmZsrItbMgCBrIuZdBIaGaZ28GQkKxqkS4enK6/s200/madoff1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352816688257127394" /></a><br />I'm never happy when someone falls. However, all must give an account of their actions. Here's a comment from today's news on Bernard Madoff's statement:<br /><br />Scattered applause and whoops broke out in the crowded Manhattan courtroom after U.S. District Judge Denny Chin issued the maximum sentence to the 71-year-old defendant, who said he lives "in a tormented state now, knowing all the pain and suffering I've created." (From the AP.)<br /><br />Now, no one should ever gloat over someones failures. I should hasten to add that those who do terrible things must be punished. That goes with reason. But, this is what I hear from so many that get "caught." Madoff says, "I'm in a tormented state now, knowing the pain and suffering I've created." Obviously I don't know the man's heart. Only God does. Let me add a comment though. Would Madoff say this "if" he hadn't been caught? Again, only God knows. It seems so convenient to say "I'm sorry" once you've been caught. "If" the person while committing atrocities knows it's wrong and they feel bad about it, stop! And...so goes the show.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-48493881177733770752009-06-27T13:47:00.000-07:002009-06-27T14:16:10.923-07:00Michael Jackson<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4eN9Msg4L6kg0jrxU9h18vhx27HV64b15rosMLVWT_0Gqaww00mzbUzavzayP6165Agk1CzW91k2l1CwV_hOSU2brt40x3e5v3aT2b_0sEvFWPEHal_HY4euV17Z79RZLl5N9Q__QELrL/s1600-h/essential+jackson.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4eN9Msg4L6kg0jrxU9h18vhx27HV64b15rosMLVWT_0Gqaww00mzbUzavzayP6165Agk1CzW91k2l1CwV_hOSU2brt40x3e5v3aT2b_0sEvFWPEHal_HY4euV17Z79RZLl5N9Q__QELrL/s200/essential+jackson.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352119217062019490" /></a><br />There's obviously enough press over Michael Jackson. There's not much anyone can really add to what is being written. I can only make the following observations. Sure, he was eccentric and accused of many things. He also was very gifted as well. My take is this: Regardless of what someone thinks of Michael, he was still a human being in need of a savior! Do we ever really stop to think about actors, singers, entertainers as being "real" people aside from their stage performances? And...do we think to pray for these people? <br /><br />All the money in the world cannot save a soul. I've often commented to others that those in Hollywood, Nashville or anywhere else for that matter need a savior. Even Shia LaBeouf said there was something missing in his life. Elvis obviously dabbled in mysticism, drugs, and other vices looking for the answer. Sure, we all must answer for our lives before God someday. I just think if some would show compassion to a lost and dying world maybe more would be going to the altar. Just my humble take. Remember, God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.<br /><br />It's sad that so many who do have the money and fame use it to destroy themselves faster than others. I can't help but think of the old song I love so much, "Only Jesus Can Satisfy Your Soul" written by Lanny Wolfe. Of course scripture too says, "What shall a man profit if he gains the world and loses his soul?" I think the question is obviously answered. It's really sad that a man comes down to the end of his life at fifty with just a chimp named Bubbles as a friend.<br /><br />END NOTE: Of the subject, but I know my blogging has been sparse. I really write for my own enjoyment. It's like an online journal. However, I can actually just journal offline using Word. If there are a few of you that read my blog or just "lurk" could I ask you to leave a comment if you still enjoy the blog? I would appreciate it. I know my friend Roger has felt that way too. Thanks so much.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-76491861867088488272009-06-10T14:15:00.000-07:002009-06-10T19:07:15.201-07:00The Art Of Understanding<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lICv0Kucm7OPpl26iVdkdIQJURh6ECcUy_xMrXtPGc3H40OCHHjBn59NvfOnLA7S0_-amPtBw5RLBjgCPpf-29NuhteXM-12rWz3jzsEkUp1MEszwzP52lEyEBuBrJY6zPjVKjOsmkqU/s1600-h/tugofwar.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lICv0Kucm7OPpl26iVdkdIQJURh6ECcUy_xMrXtPGc3H40OCHHjBn59NvfOnLA7S0_-amPtBw5RLBjgCPpf-29NuhteXM-12rWz3jzsEkUp1MEszwzP52lEyEBuBrJY6zPjVKjOsmkqU/s200/tugofwar.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345817622600757458" /></a><br />There I was sitting with my legs crossed on the floor with the other students. I was wearing my traditional white "gi." The name given to the martial arts outfit I was wearing. I had just attained my blue belt after completing the first of four phases on becoming a black belt. Every night after entering the "dojo" or the training place, our instructor would have an object lesson for us. So, as we would begin our stretching for the night's grueling action he would teach us. This night he taught us the art of understanding others.<br /><br />I don't remember verbatim what he said but the idea of it did stick with me. His basic premise is that we too often have our own ideas and thoughts in mind that we don't really stop to listen to what the other person has to say. He said we should be quiet long enough, open our mind to the other person, let them speak and really try to understand where that person is coming from. He likened it to a tug of war. Too many times, we are tugging at a rope trying to get that other person to come over the "line" to our way of thinking. Instead, it's easier to at times, to drop the rope, cross the line to their side, and listen to them! Now, he wasn't saying we would always agree one-hundred percent, but we'd be far better off if we tried that approach.<br /><br />I'd like to say that I've always followed that premise all the time. Unfortunately, because I'm so very human and flawed, I have failed to do that at times. There have been times in my life when I've accomplished that very well. I always wondered though: Why did it work so well sometimes and not well at other times? I think I know my answer. The times when it worked the best was when I was truly listening to God's voice and walking his way. When I stray from that, then is when I find understanding a bit harder to grasp.<br /><br />As human beings we all want our way! Really, don't we? It's about us! I have one friend who jokes with me and says, "It's all about me, Randy, it's all about me!" and just laughs. He's toying with me. But, without the Holy Spirit guiding our lives we can become one-sided, tunnel vision sets in and we can't see past the hallway. When the Holy Spirit truly takes control, we can clearly let him lead the way and look out for others in our lives! I'm reminded of a sermon my friend Bob had spoken on many years ago. It came out of my favorite inspirational book of the New Testament, Philippians. (My favorite doctrinal book of the NT is Romans. Yes, they both contain doctrine, but Philippians is my emotional favorite.) The verses were: "Don't just look out after your own things, but look out after the things of others!" (Paraphrase.) Philippians 2:4. Now, that doesn't mean being a busy body, but truly looking out for the interests of others as we look out for ourselves.<br /><br />Just today I received two emails. One from a friend in Illinois that I care deeply for but I needed to understand him more. The second from a friend here at home where she was asking for understanding of something that is going on in her life. I spoke to my brother about both of these communiques. I mentioned to him that I had drifted to some degree and I needed to really "understand" more than what I had been doing the past week. So, I endeavored today to do just that! Plus, in addition, there are times when I have to ask friends and family to bear with me or to try to "understand" what I'm going through. See, in understanding, we don't always have to know exactly what the person is going through, but we can "seek" to comfort, care and show concern during that process.<br /><br />It seems I'm on my knees a lot in prayer asking that I understand better the needs of those around me. I also have to get "myself" out of the way at times so I can better hear what God "is" trying to tell me. I have to drop the rope, quit playing "tug-of-war" and step over the line and really listen. That even goes with the Lord himself too! Didn't he say, "Come let us reason together?" He did. I'm loosely using that line for God was talking about man's sin and God's forgiveness. So, if anything today, I'm asking God to help me to understand more. There are times when I don't understand him either. Go figure. But, when my struggle is finally over, I finally come to the Lord's side of thinking and say, "God you know best!" And he does.<br /><br />So, today, a memory from 1993 of a martial arts instructor came back to me and did me a lot of good. I refer to this novel a lot but it's an oldie but a goodie. Axel Jordache in the novel "Rich Man Poor Man" said, "no one really understands anybody in this world." In essence he's right. But, if we truly make it a cognitive thought and act upon it, we can all do a bit better. Well boys and girls that's it for today. May the love or our Lord be with us all!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-32497822766838542042009-06-08T06:08:00.000-07:002009-06-08T06:45:53.158-07:00Hughes' H1 Racer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWbBVMVepEogPIWiX6LctPrqgXW6xHJjN8uuwypFh4TICY-Aq2D2TRrA4y_LuE95P-5MbL8o1vZgBhq3SqNNQxbabP6qW860iYSsafQLwwOziNO4NifhzlJGZ2cPpGjCP89kat7phmbvkW/s1600-h/h1+racer.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWbBVMVepEogPIWiX6LctPrqgXW6xHJjN8uuwypFh4TICY-Aq2D2TRrA4y_LuE95P-5MbL8o1vZgBhq3SqNNQxbabP6qW860iYSsafQLwwOziNO4NifhzlJGZ2cPpGjCP89kat7phmbvkW/s200/h1+racer.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344949128213232370" /></a><br />For the longest time I've had an interest in the life of Howard Hughes. Actually, on two fronts. One, his love of aviation and also what caused this man of incredible talent to self-destruct the way he did. In the picture above is the H1 racer. Some called it "an engine with a saddle strapped on it!" Hughes even had the rivets flush with the body to avoid drag and increase speed. At the time he set a new world's record with a speed of 352 miles an hour. He however, stayed up in the plane too long, ran out of fuel, but was able to land his craft, landing gear up, and raised the pitch of the plane to land in a beet field! He survived. Upon arriving to help him, his workers came up to him and all he said was, "She'll go faster!" <br /><br />I've been to D.C. three times. For some reason I never got to the Air and Space Museum. That's where the original H1 racer is located. Well, maybe I'll take my fourth trip to D.C. to see this bullet of an aircraft. Of course Hughes went on to set a world record, at the time, of traveling around the world in a record time even beating out some older records. He bought TWA and made commercial aviation easier on passengers as they traveled above the weather where the air is thinner and the ride smoother. Plus, he created the "Hercules." A flying boat if you will. It was to be used to fly troops, tanks and more across the ocean during the second world war. The reason is that the German U-boats were destroying ships that were sea-bound carrying troops across the Atlantic.<br /><br />It's sad too, that a man who was so intelligent descended into a life of madness. There's an old saying that goes something like this: "there's a small gap between genius and madness" or something to that degree. Off the subject, one CCM artist once quipped, "It goes something like this. However, why do people say that? The song goes 'exactly' like this." I always found that funny.<br /><br />Well, that's it for today. I used to fly more than I do now. However, with all the security now it's kind of taken the fun out of it. Oh, I still love it when I get to do it. I went to Portland Oregon sometime back. It was really great to see Mount Hood and Mount Rainier from the sky! Also, I was able to see the Rockies too. I remember a few years back flying to Raleigh North Carolina that we crossed over the Appalacians. From the air, it seemed I was seeing ripples in the ground! Upon looking again, I realized I was seeing the mountains. What a great sight. Have a great day everyone.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-18708381296186787092009-06-06T12:45:00.000-07:002009-06-07T07:26:50.702-07:00My Tribute<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur1eIhllFYo-HjYHCQexztXNHpXPk-1A2KkqMKbfVNSj2rYFIkkgo5e0jJyXhm_GtQ_xlsDwna5_itxnWExmEjNGyASkz2OilOKagBiV-7VunRCLHcsgjtPWGb78BPmcdE7lat72V8p8x/s1600-h/Chuckscopy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 183px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur1eIhllFYo-HjYHCQexztXNHpXPk-1A2KkqMKbfVNSj2rYFIkkgo5e0jJyXhm_GtQ_xlsDwna5_itxnWExmEjNGyASkz2OilOKagBiV-7VunRCLHcsgjtPWGb78BPmcdE7lat72V8p8x/s200/Chuckscopy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344305010412701554" /></a><br />Today I wanted to say a special "Thank you" to all who have served our country!! In particular I wanted to say a special thanks to a friend from California. His name is Kevin Rodgers. He serves in the Navy as a religion program specialist. Kevin and I became acquainted through Michael English's website. I told Kevin today how grateful I am to his love for our Lord and his service to our country! Semper Fi Kev! He's one of the "real deals" in life! <br /><br />My heartfelt thanks to all who have served and are currently serving our country. May God protect you and bless you all of your days. May the peace of Christ be with you all!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-83792898914166217812009-06-05T20:27:00.000-07:002009-06-05T23:06:48.701-07:00Bright Days Dark Nights<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgesexynuzIjwAIeusT74JoAUu9gH9Ip5Ft3l0Qu1PZjMG7XwRMqC35h328pv2gHq9f_JrcPqQAad_UGHBKZ9_BaGZav8eOS7A4tUVxMBktlNP0U1yQl7TFfctzdMe0uGnddqRpnq1YtnLc/s1600-h/bright+days+dark+nights.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 93px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgesexynuzIjwAIeusT74JoAUu9gH9Ip5Ft3l0Qu1PZjMG7XwRMqC35h328pv2gHq9f_JrcPqQAad_UGHBKZ9_BaGZav8eOS7A4tUVxMBktlNP0U1yQl7TFfctzdMe0uGnddqRpnq1YtnLc/s200/bright+days+dark+nights.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344053969113827874" /></a><br />Recently I mentioned a friend who was facing a severe depression. She's not a believer. But it even goes on in the church. I find in today's church world no one wants to talk about depression. Even though many Christians too, deal with this insidious torture of the mind. Elizabeth Ruth Skoglund has written a fantastic book on Charles Spurgeon's life called, "Bright Days, Dark Nights." Did you know there were times that Spurgeon's life was so bad that men had to carry him to the pulpit so he could even preach a sermon?<br /><br />It seems many believers want only fun and frivolity. And they turn aside from those who are depressed. Well, to be fair, maybe they just don't know what to say. They could at least tell that person they will pray for them. There are so many ill-informed believers that think only prayer will take it all away. Did they ever think for a moment that God does use doctors and meds to help those who go through the ordeal? I'm sure Spurgeon could have used the help if it was available then. <br /><br />It's so easy to pass judgment when a person hasn't been there. However, I don't need to go through some horrible ordeal to show compassion for others that go through something I have no idea about. Isn't it about time the body of Christ starts showing some real compassion instead of wagging tongues? Where were many believers before they came to Christ? Drug addicts, drunks, gamblers, you name it. I hope we all show more humility and grace in the days to come. There is a world dying for the need of Christ. But, sometimes the church is too busy attacking their own wounded they have no time to see the harvest in front of them. To be fair, I've been guilty of this and I've had to repent many times. May the peace of Christ be with you all.Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5151376539444093876.post-12135114201204902372009-05-19T07:56:00.002-07:002009-06-06T00:13:03.111-07:00The End Of The RopeNormally I keep this blog somewhat hopefully inspirational. In my reading of the Word, even King David and Job despaired of their own lives. Isn't it odd that we admire these men of the Word but get a bit discouraged at those around us who become weary of life? Kind of wrong, I think. Today's post is probably the most serious one I've ever written.<br /><br />Many years ago I knew a very special lady. For her privacy I'll call her Helen. We were on the phone. It was obvious she was in dire straits. Complications with her family didn't help matters either. I had known her for a very long time. She was basically a loner of sorts, hated crowds and had a very artistic flair. This day, all of her hopes and aspirations were gone. Her broken voice filtered through the lines to my receiver. There was no doubt she had been crying for some time. I had seen her sad, happy, serious and funny in a whimsical way. Today, though, was one side I had never experienced. She was on the verge of taking her life. In a staccato speech mixed with tears she told me she had a knife to her throat. She had come to the end of her rope.<br /><br />I tried to find the reason for the distress. It seemed to me she had everything to live for. She was healthy, well-educated, attractive, financially secure and much more. I thought, "How could she not love life?" She told me that all hope was gone. She resorted to drinking as a balm to her troubled life. She asked me the most poignant question, "Why shouldn't I just cut my throat now?" Now, sometimes, in a serious situation I try to diffuse things with my humor. This however, wasn't the right time. In my mind I thought, "Well, it could hurt." I wasn't about to use this line. All I can remember is that I told her to do me a favor and at least drop the knife and talk to me. She did.<br /><br />So, for the next few minutes I tried to pry out of her the hurt, anger, or whatever emotion that was bringing her to this point. She finally admitted that her father thought she was a failure. Or at least that is what he thought of her that day. I tried to reassure her that we all have said things in haste. I tried to remind her of all of the great qualities she had, the caring soul within her and all the wonderful gifts and talents she had. I wanted Helen to know that it wasn't worth one bad comment to destroy her life. However, I do know how hurtful words can be.<br /><br />Another thing though is that she's not a believer. I don't know how many times I had told her of the love of Jesus. To this day though, she thinks it is a myth. The good news is: she is better. The drinking is gone and she seems somewhat better with her life. My sadness comes in the fact she doesn't know Christ. And what's even more tragic is there are believers that despair of life and want to end it all. I disagree with those who say suicide is a selfish act. I think it takes a brave person to end it! Just my thought. However, I don't recommend it. Some psychologists say that those who commit suicide even in that moment are looking for happiness. I agree with that comment. <br /><br />In closing, I'm glad I was there that day to help her through that ordeal. Helen is a very selfless person. My greater hope is that someday she will look at the creation around her and know that the Lord exists! Those of us who do believe, know that God said that even the creation proves his existence. I know many of us have seen some pretty dark days in our lives. And...to be frank...I wonder how some people seem to be happy all the time. It reminds me of a line out of the novel "Rich Man Poor Man" where Rudy Jordache meets this woman who was smiling and radiant. He said, "No one can be that happy!" But, Irwin Shaw wrote that novel and it definitely comes from a normal person's thoughts. Someday, those of us who know Christ will have total bliss. For now, as Michael Card so aptly wrote it, "there is joy in the journey!" May the peace of Christ be with you!Randy Spradlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702077495516958342noreply@blogger.com3