Coming Soon...

My father's latest advertising project.

Stepping Back

During a recent excursion to a beautiful old Texas town, we visited a retro 1950's diner and enjoyed some good old-fashioned ice cream. Besides partaking in this delicious icy delicacy, some also practiced the art of mounting swivelling stools.

Psalm 24:7-10

"Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah. "

In a Land of History and Antiques

This Day in History - 1968

Forty years ago today, a significant historic event took place. This day in 1968, Apollo 8 went into orbit around the moon after its three day journey through space. The three-man crew of Mission Commander Frank Borman, Command Module Pilot James Lovell, and Lunar Module Pilot William Anders circled around the moon ten times during a period of twenty hours.

During the ninth lunar orbit, as the television camera transmitted images of the moon and earth to an awed audience, they read the first ten verses of Genesis...

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.

And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.

And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.

And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.

And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.

And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.

And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.

And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.

Genesis 1:1-10

A Franklin Springs Essay Contest Winner

It is with great pleasure and delight to announce that my dear sister Emily won a recent Franklin Springs Family Media Essay Contest. The subject matter on which she wrote was "Why I Like Breadmaking."

~ ~ ~

The Joys of Breadmaking

Emily J.—Age 16 (Texas)

I love making bread for so many reasons: the aroma, the taste, the fact that making bread is less expensive than buying it, and simply for the joy of making something healthy and delicious for my family.

The wonderful, homey smell of bread is worth the few hours of enjoyable labor that it took to make. My Daddy loves smelling fresh-baked bread when he comes home from work. It is rewarding to be able to make something that so delights my family.

The taste of a tender and delicious loaf is most often irresistible, especially when it is hot out of the oven. I love making bread that delights the taste buds!

Saving money is a wonderful by-product of breadmaking. The cost of a few cups of flour, some yeast, salt, honey, water and oil is so minimal that it hardly compares to its store bought counterpart.

Making fresh bread is a way of supporting faithful stewardship of our temples by making a much healthier food than that which is in a grocery store. Being able to use whole grains, natural sweeteners, and pure ingredients to the benefit of my family is one aspect of breadmaking that is so enjoyable and worthwhile for me.

Above all, I want everything I do to bring glory to God, and that includes making bread for my family.

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might...”

Ecclesiastes 9:10

~ ~ ~

To read more about this essay contest click here

If you would like to receive announcements of upcoming contests by Franklin Springs Family Media, please send an email to contests@franklinsprings.com.

Stories of Virtue, Part 2

Thoughts behind this series and the first part of this story can be found here.

Feather Your Nest

"Daddy!" Virtue cried with glee, "I'm all ready for chores."

"I'm glad to see that my little lady is well this morning," he said drawing Virtue into his strong arms. "And, yes, it is time to go take faithful care of your chickens. I have already heard Sir Hackles making a fuss."

Virtue giggled. Sir Hackles was an old, fussy rooster that often caused her trouble. One time Sir Hackles even chased her around the house though, thankfully, Mommy had heard Virtue's cries and shooed him back into his yard with her broom. However, there rested a healthy fear of Daddy in Sir Hackles.

As they went down the stairs , they picked up their flashlights and their warm coats. It was still dark outside and a little cold; the weather station on the back porch read 38 degrees Fahrenheit. With the flashlight lighting up the path to the hen house, they soon arrived and were greeted with clucks and squawks, chirps and crows.

Virtue filled the feeders and waters and ascertained that the nesting boxes were clean. It was then that she noticed one hen remained in the nesting boxes while the others consumed the feed. Upon closer examination, Virtue noticed many feathers in the nesting box.

"Daddy, I think this hen might be sick." she said.

"No, Dear, this hen appears to have gone broody. The straw and feathers will make a soft nest for all those eggs to incubate and then hatch," he explained.

This was Virtue's first flock of chickens, so she had much to learn; she was thankful her father was so knowledgeable about fowl.

"Oh, you're a nice mama hen," Virtue cooed. "My mommy doesn't put feathers in my bed, but she does spread soft covers on my bed! You are like my mommy; she always knows what I really need. Goodbye hens! Enjoy your breakfast."

Sir Hackles was the only one who replied.

Stories of Virtue, Part 1

Despite all the necessary writing that we might do as young ladies, it ought to be remembered that one of the best ways we should use our writing skills is to the edification of our own immediate family. It is within our own immediate family that we have a very powerful influence for good or for bad.

This small series was written for our beloved Grace, then at three years of age. The stories of Virtue actually began as oral tales told to two year-old Grace as she was rocked on the front porch. One of the immense blessings of creating stories for little children is the opportunity to encourage and exhort these precious ones toward a higher standard of excellence in every area, especially in areas of personal struggle.

The following is a selected short story emphasizing the important character qualities of punctuality, duty, and diligence; however, the over arching theme is obedience.

To Obey Is the Only Way

"Ring! Ring!" A chubby finger hit the "off" button. Three year-old Virtue knew how to turn off her alarm because her Daddy had taught her. She remembered when he showed her the button that had the letters "O" "F" "F" written on it.

"Oh! I had better get my dress on and not be lazy," thought Virtue as she pushed back her covers. It was then that she realized how chilly the winter air was and just how toasty was her warm spot. She thought about snuggling underneath her mound of soft quilts and fuzzy blankies. That would feel...would feel so wonderful.

Then little Virtue thought about her mother's words last night, "Sweet One, we have a full day tomorrow. Great-Grandpa Tarleton will come and eat breakfast with us, so as with everyday you will need t get yourself dressed when your alarm rings."

Springing out of bed, Virtue exclaimed aloud, "I want to obey Mommy! If I sleep past my alarm, Mommy will be so sad that I choose to disobey. No! I want to make obey; I want to make her happy."

Virtue quickly dressed and arranged her bed covers tidily. She even put her stuffed bunny, Susie, on her pillow. She was almost ready to depart from her neat abode when she remembered something. Last week her mother instructed her to do her personal hygiene chores each day without being reminded. Virtue wasn't going to forget today. No, she wanted to remember and obey all of Mother's words. Very quickly she brushed her curls (with her hair brush) and then her teeth (with her toothbrush), washed her face, lotioned her body, cleaned her ears and then her finger nails.

She was just putting away her nail clippers when she heard a "knock, knock" on her door. She knew just who it was.

Find out who was there in the next story, Feather Your Nest

Two Happy Maidens

Despite below freezing temperatures, Amy Grace and Annie Hope bundled up warmly and engaged in their daily exercise. What happy smiles!

"A Friend Loveth at All Times..."

With much thanksgiving our family recently received a dear brother in Christ into our home. A husband to a joyous wife and home-educating father of ten children, he and his precious family have also been dear friends of the Jones family for well over a decade and a half. Having known a Christian family this long, notwithstanding the separation of several states and distinct family characteristics, there is a special closeness that comes from the joys and trials shared together through prayer. How grateful we are for this family! We have been encouraged by this family's faithfulness and love of the Lord, and inspired by their courage and steadfastness in well doing. May the Lord bless them for all that they have invested in the Church for God's glory.

"Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence. True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation."

~George Washington (from a letter written January 1783)

A Quote from William Bradford

"Thus out of small beginnings greater things have grown by His hand Who made all things out of nothing, and gives being to all things that are; and as one small candle may light a thousand, so the light kindled here has shone to many, yea, in a sense, to our whole nation; let the glorious name of Jehovah have all the praise."

A Thanksgiving Day Smell: Pumpkin Pie

Lovingly made by Grandmother

A Thanksgiving Day Sight: Little Pilgrims

For many years, members of our family have not only dressed up, but have pretended to copy some of our Spiritual fathers and mothers, the Pilgrims. Many a "Patience," "Priscilla" and "Remember," have been numbered in our midst.

It is at this time of year that we, in a particular way, remember and thank the Lord for giving us the Godly examples of our Pilgrim fathers and mothers who demonstrated perseverance, faith, courage and trust.

We are also thankful for, among many other blessings, our little pilgrims. Our little pilgrims who we trust and pray will walk in their godly forefathers' footsteps and live lives to the glory of God, our Father.

The Gift of Touching: Precious Little Hands

Sounds of Thanksgiving Day: Psalm 100

Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth.

Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before Him with joyful singing.
Know that the LORD Himself is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name.

For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting And His faithfulness to all generations.

A Taste of Thanksgiving Day: Our Traditional Stuffing

A Family Tradition

One of the beauties of God's creation is the vibrant harmony of what we call, "the five senses." Long before I could studiously lisp, "See, feel, smell, taste, and hear," I perceived all my dearest memories through these precious gifts.


Some of my dearest memories were when our family (extended and immediate) would gather for Thanksgiving Day. Our old home would bustle with activity as uncles and aunts, grandparents and cousins would arrive and add to the festivity. Laughter, singing, recitations, poems and music played important parts.


Another significant highlight of the day was the yearly Thanksgiving feast. The ladies always made their men pleased and merry with their loving and exceptional culinary skills. These spreads were always carefully and beautifully prepared and arrayed with the traditional turkey and the delectable homemade stuffing as a focal point.


For several generations this stuffing recipe, with occasional modifications and alterations, has been passed down from mother to daughter in our family. Today three generations of ladies in our family gathered once again to concoct this traditional dish. After many years this stuffing is still a taste and part of our annual Thanksgiving feast.

~ ~ ~

Thanksgiving Stuffing

1 small onion

4 stalks celery

1lb. sausage

2 loaves sliced French bread

1 tomato

1 medium bell pepper

Salt

Pepper

Sage

Cook sausage and chopped vegetables over low heat, covered. (Just add 2 stalks of celery at this time.) Salt, pepper and sage to taste - it should be slightly salty. While meat and vegetables are cooking, toast 1 1/2 loaves of bread and tear into pieces. When meat mixture is cooked, set aside to cool, then refrigerate until cold. Add the bread pieces and last 2 celery stalks to the cold meat mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to stuff turkey.

~ ~ ~

Homemade crusty French bread

Only the freshest ingredients

The last of our summer's garden bounty

All hand chopped

Home grown....home dried

~ The final product ~

Hosanna!

Man Sharpeneth the Countenance of His Friend

The Uncertainty of When

Pain. Foreseen. Damage. Expected. Fire.

Several of these words could easily describe the circumstances of one Southern California county during the course of the past two days. Santa Barbara County, arguably one of the most beautiful counties in the nation, is experiencing a very real occurrence of damage: a fire. Dubbed the "Tea Fire," it has already afflicted damage and pain to scores of estates and numerous people of Montecito, CA.

Although man did not know of this fire 24 hours ago, citizens of Santa Barbara County are not new to fires; in fact, they are acutely aware of the possibility of troubling fires at this time of year. Notwithstanding the tropical climate and the natural beauty, Santa Barbara and Montecito (and surrounding cities) also claim very dry and brushy hillsides, and dusk winds that tear through canyons at speeds up to 90 mph, known as "sundowners." Together these variables are the perfect environment for roaring fires and mass destruction.

~ ~ ~

The words above could, likewise, illustrate the world and impending judgement. However, the people of Southern California know that fires are likely, but we know that judgement is certain. This should sober us. This should excite us. First of all, are we ready to meet Him (Matthew 22:1-14)? And second, are we being faithful daughters during this time which He has given to us?

The requisite for the above is God's unspeakable gift, His grace, which we cannot earn or buy; it is a gift. Because of His grace He makes us willing to do what He requires. Then may we be true daughters that delight in reading His Word, spending time in prayer, and being steadfast in the work that He has given to us. May we be ready for when He comes.

~Please be in prayer for the families affected by the Tea Fire in Southern California. ~

Family Harmony

Using the Internet as an Instrument of Profitable Instruction

...For Little Brothers...

We live in a time and place when many images and voices are vying for young boys' attention. And the internet is no exception; powerful and instructive, the internet can either be used in a way to build up and encourage or tear down and destroy.

Here are just two of the numerous sites which my brother, Daniel, age 10, has come to enjoy and appreciate exploring.


New Venture Lab
"Whenever I visit this website, I feel inspired to start a business. I especially enjoy reading all the stories of the entrepreneurs who started their own business, and reading about their successes and failures, their lessons learned and regrets. Inspiring!" ~Daniel


Ballantyne the Brave
"During the past several years my father and I have read books to each other, some of which were written by G.A Henty. I enjoy history and military information, so I was fascinated by these aspects in G.A. Henty's books. When I first read some posts on Ballantyne the Brave's website, I liked it because it reminded me of Henty. I also really like the beautiful images on this site." ~Daniel

The Enemy of Biblical Critics - Archaeology

"Archaeology has over and over again proved to be the enemy of Biblical critics, unearthing their negative prejudices and confirming the accuracy of the Scriptures in historical particulars." ~ Dr. Greg Bahnsen

~ ~ ~

"More and more the older view that the biblical data were suspect and even likely to be false, unless corroborated by extra-biblical facts, is giving way to one which holds that, by and large, the biblical accounts are more likely to be true than false..."
~H. M. Orlinsky
Ancient Israel (Ithaca, New York: Cornell University Press, 1954), p. 6.

"After more than two centuries of facing the heaviest scientific guns that could be brought to bear, the Bible has survived - and is perhaps the better for the siege. Even on the critics' own terms - historical fact - the Scriptures seem more acceptable now than they did when the rationalists began the attack."
~"How True is the Bible?" Time magazine, December 30, 1974,

p. 41

"Archaeological and inscriptional data have established the historicity of innumerable passages and statements of the Old Testament"

~W.F. Albright

"Archeology Confronts Biblical Criticism," The American Scholar, vol. 7 (Spring, 1938), p. 41

An Archaeological Discovery: Unbelief and the Authority of Scripture

Yahoo News (AP) – The fictional King Solomon's Mines held a treasure of gold and diamonds, but archaeologists say the real mines may have supplied the ancient king with copper.

The discovery occurred at Khirbat en-Nahas, which means "ruins of copper" in Arabic. Located south of the Dead Sea, the region was known in the Old Testament as Edom.

"We can't believe everything ancient writings tell us," Levy said in a statement. "But this research represents a confluence between the archaeological and scientific data and the Bible."

Read the article HERE

Note unbelief and the logic applied in each sentence above.

Concepción Solorio

For several years our family has enjoyed the joyous rigors of preparing tamales specifically on this day, October 27. This day is a day of remembrance. It was on this day 101 years ago, that a very special woman in our family's Mexican heritage was born. Most knew her as Concepción Solorio; however, to our family she was our dear Grandma Connie (my mother's paternal grandmother). As a Christian woman, Grandma Connie's legacy of faithfulness in many areas continues to inspire us to this day.

"Cleave to the Lord, mija (my daughter)" ~ One of Grandma Connie's earnest exhortations

The Mexican Art of Making Tamales

Anita Esperanza prepares the masa.

Emilia's efficient and experienced hands prepare the vegetable filling for the vegetarian style tamales.

Daniel carefully dries the hojas.

Mateo demonstrates the finer points of tamale making to Amada Graciela.

Instructed and encouraged, Amada Graciela tackles her first tamale of the year.

Timely Words from John Quincy Adams

"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost."

~John Quincy Adams

Legacy and Hope

Alexis de Tocqueville's Assessment of American Women in 1835

"Thus the Americans do not think that man and woman have either the duty or the right to perform the same offices, but they show an equal regard for both their respective parts; and though their lot is different, they consider both of them as beings of equal value. They do not give to the courage of woman the same form or the same direction as to that of man, but they never doubt her courage; and if they hold that man and his partner ought not always to exercise their intellect and understanding in the same manner, they at least believe the understanding of the one to be as sound as that of the other, and her intellect to be as clear...

As for myself, I do not hesitate to avow that although the women of the United States are confined within the narrow circle of domestic life, and their situation is in some respects one of extreme dependence, I have nowhere seen woman occupying a loftier position; and if I were asked, now that I am drawing to the close of this work, in which I have spoken of so many important things done by the Americans, to what the singular prosperity and growing strength of that people ought mainly to be attributed, I should reply: To the superiority of their women. "

~Excerpts from Democracy in America

Thoughts for Consideration

In this past century of American history, has "singular prosperity and growing strength of the people" continued, biblically speaking?

Biblicallly speaking what does, ""singular prosperity and growing strength of the people" mean?

To what might we attribute this cultural shift and change?

~ ~ ~

Several Scriptures to consider: Psalms 144:12-15, 33:12-19, Ephesians 5:22, Isaiah 3:10-12, Proverbs 31:10-31, Titus 3:3-5, Psalm 128, 1 Corinthians 16:13, Colossians 3:18, and

Genesis 3:13-19.

A Book Review: Exploring Planet Earth

A unique nuance of a large, robust household is the privilege to easily learn from another member's study through oral presentations, written reviews or conversations around the dinner table. Recently, my sister, Emily, took a break from more strenuous reading to enjoy an effortless, fascinating book on discovery.

A Book Review: Exploring Planet Earth

The Journey of Discovery from Early Civilization to Future Exploration

By Emily Jones

Have you ever wondered who invented the air pump? or what about hot air balloons, clocks and compasses? Who discovered the ‘river in the ocean’ or the ‘three spheres’ or the cause of the ocean tides? In Exploring Planet Earth, John Hudson Tiner, the author, explains in simple and easy-to-understand language the more complex discoveries and inventions associated with our planet.

One of the first successful clocks, for example, was invented by a common English man named John Harrison in 1759. Being a self-taught mechanic, it took Harrison 33 years to make a clock that kept the right time.

The three spheres of our planet are the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. Lithosphere = solid, hydrosphere = liquid, and atmosphere = gas. Litho is the Greek word meaning stone; thus, it is all of the hard surfaces of the earth. Hydrosphere is the water that covers much of the Earth. Finally, the atmosphere is the gases that we breathe.

“What ever does ‘a river in the ocean’ mean?” one might wonder. The ‘river in the ocean’ was a discovery made by Benjamin Franklin. He studied currents for the purpose of making quicker trips to England from America. He called this the Gulf Stream. Though Franklin investigated the Gulf Stream, he never mapped it. The man who did this was Matthew Maury, an American naval officer. Maury described the Gulf Stream this way:

“There is a river in the sea. In the severest droughts it never fails, and in the mightiest floods it never overflows. Its banks and its bottom are of cold water, while its current is of warm. The Gulf of Mexico is its fountain, and its mouth is in the Arctic seas. It is the Gulf Stream. There is in the world no other such majestic flow of waters. Its current is more rapid than the Mississippi or Amazon, and its volume more than a thousand times greater.”

I could go on about amazing discovery after amazing invention, but I will now end this writing and encourage you to read it for yourself.

Quote of the Day

During my current study of Always Ready, by Dr. Greg Bahnsen, I came across this thought-provoking quote by Augustine.

"Understanding is the reward of faith; therefore, do not seek to understand in order to believe, but believe that thou mayest understand."

(Homilies on the Gospel of John 29.6)

An Aspiring Patriarch

Matthew Aaron (pictured at the age of 3), an aspiring Husband, Daddy, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa... A Patriarch

Allow me to share a very personal conversation that my brother Matthew (then age 3) and I had which I recorded and wrote for my father four years ago...

It is common for Matthew, with his upturned brown eyes studying my face, to ask, "Woren," you will tell us a poem tonight and rub my back...won't you?" One day that precious little face won't say, "Woren," it instead will say "Lauren," or I won't look down into those sweet brown eyes, but I will look up. I will not always recite poems to my little brothers before bed; one day they will be grown men with little ones pleading for stories or poems.

Matthew and Daniel's favorite poem is The Patriarch. The little boys will say their favorite lines with me filling in the rest. The grandest part for both boys is the last line when they join in together to say, "There is none so great as he who finds his call as patriarch."

When Matthew hugs me goodnight, he whispers in my ear, "And one day I will be a patriarch, too...like Daddy, won't I?" I answer, "Yes, Matthew, if the Lord wills, you will be a wonderful patriarch just like Daddy." "And I'll have many children, too...won't I?" he asks. "That is our prayer for you, Matthew."

This type of conversation is common. He wants to know if someday he will have a home, or if his little children will come running out of his home to his truck when he will arrive home from work. In several decades I can imagine him being just like you!

Timothy Dana

Recent Economic Issues to Consider

Questions Discussed Around the Dinner Table...

Does the government have a right to intervene and reward current unwise financial transactions?


Is the United States government in any respectable position to purchase billions of dollars worth of “troubled assets” while currently possessing a staggering debt?


What type of example has Washington been regarding responsible credit transactions?


What led to this "crisis?"


What is the long term solution to this "crisis?"

Click here for an excellent, pertinent article by Chuck Baldwin

Home Education? My Father's First Exposure and Impression

By Dana Jones

I can still remember the first time someone told me about home schooling and my first impression of those who were being taught at home. I recall the enthusiasm God gave me for the idea and remember thinking, "That's what I would like for my children," even though, at the time, I had no children...or wife. But, God is always faithful and if he commands something, he will certainly provide the means to fulfil it; and in my case, he has provided abundantly, four children...so far, and a Godly wife (Psalm 37:4,5).

Working in retail craft sales for the last 15 or so years, I have had the pleasure of observing many types of family interactions. How families interact in that type of setting can be quite fascinating. Among other things, do the kids listen to (Proverbs 13:1) and obey their parents (Col. 3:20)? If they don't obey, what's the parent's response? Do the parents show positive encouragement regarding a child's interest(1 Thes. 2:11)? Does the family seem united (Psalm 133:1)?

I've been able to witness answers to those questions that have been on both ends of the scale. It's such a beautiful sight to see children who listen, respect and obey their parents. It's wonderful to see a parent whose response to a disobedient child confirms that the parent is in control of the situation, and not the child. Hearing a parent say encouraging words about the child's ability to do something that they may have never tried before is heartwarming. Seeing the families that show genuine interest and respect for each other is truly a blessing! Gratefully, there have been a number of families that have shown most or all of those qualities and one in particular made a major impact on our family's life.

Back in 1984, a mom and her two sons came into the store. It was in the morning when most kids were "required" to be in school. One son, Glen, was about 11 and the other, whose name I don't recall, was a couple of years older. Both children were well-behaved and one could see that respectful communication was going on between them. Mom showed a certain peace and authority that was different from most that I had seen.

They started asking questions about our starter sets and inquired about our classes. It turned out that Glen was very interested in learning how to do leatherwork and his mom thought the classes would be a good idea. I told them that the youth classes were on Thursdays from 4-5:30 p.m. and explained all the things he would learn. She asked if we had classes during the morning. "Not usually," I said, "most children are in school during that time." "Well, we home school our children and the mornings would really fit into our schedule better," she said politely and confidently.

There it was, the first time the words "home school" entered my ears, and it piqued my curiosity. Over the next few minutes, she was patiently answering the many questions that were popping into my head. Yes, I probably asked the typical first-timer questions like-- is it legal? Do you have to report to the school district? Do you have a teaching credential? And best of all, what about socialization -- aren't you afraid your kids won't be able to relate to and work with children their same age? There were many more, all responded to graciously and confidently.

After our conversation, they ended up purchasing a starter set and enrolled Glen in out new morning youth leathercraft class. For his age, he was mature and confident. He caught on quickly, was patient, listened and eventually became a terrific 11 year-old leathercrafter. He did so well that, in fact, I asked him to make a billfold that I could keep as a store sample, which I still have today.

Patiently, graciously, and confidently was the way home schooling was introduced to me and it left a big impression. When we are given the opportunity to share about home education, it would serve all home educators well to respond in the same positive way. She didn't roll her eyes when I asked the "socialization" question, she didn't talk about all the negative aspects of public schools. She did speak with the confidence that God gives us when we are doing His will.

Edited from an article originally published in Triumphant Families in 1995

The Glory of Children Are Their Fathers

The Legacy of One Faithful Man

"Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."

1 Corinthians 16:13

We live in a time and place where men and women at large are forsaking and shrinking from God-given duty and gender distinctive roles. The time when it was generally understood that the father was responsible for leading and primarily providing for his family is a thing of the past. All around us, we see the legacies of men who where unfaithful in the primary duties that God has given to man. However, from the twisted and perverted culture, the Lord is raising up men, true men. Because of His mercy and grace these men are forsaking the pomp and pleasure of the world and are instead leaving behind legacies of faithfulness. One of these men is my father; allow me to share about the legacy of this faithful man.

A Legacy of Trust in the Lord

My father's trust in the Lord has often reminded me of Job. My father has echoed the very words of Job during times of trial,

"...the Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."

A Legacy of Honor

I have always seen my father as a man of honor. I have seen my father choose deliberately to honor those around him whether it was simple or incredibly difficult. Above all earthly people, my father has honored his Father.

"Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king." 1 Peter 2:17

A Legacy of Marriage Esteemed

Since he was a little boy growing up in and around broken families, my father recalls that he knew that marriage was for life. When he became a Christian, this thought became a conviction.

"Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." Genesis 2:24

A Legacy of the Blessing of Progeny

This is one issue on which my father passionately stands. It has been his firm conviction that unless Christians see and receive children as a blessing, there will be no true, lasting reformation in the land.

"As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate." Psalms 127:4&5

A Legacy of History

Some of my sweetest memories of being a little girl are when my father would regale me with stories. "Just one more story, Daddy!" was my often plea at bedtime which my father would graciously oblige. These stories did more than make little girls giggle or tear. These stories from the past gave us an early love for history; an interest and love in how God works in the lives of His people.

"I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done." Psalms 78:2-4

Celebrating the Lord's Faithfulness in the Life of a Special Man

Fifty years ago, a little man child was born. The arrival of this child was an unexpected surprise to his parents, yet the Lord had a special plan for this third son, a plan of hope and a future, an expected end.

Although many would say that his childhood was far from ideal, the Lord used those very events to shape him into what he is today. This little lad was also blessed with periods of unusual opportunity and an early interest in what would eventually be the way of providing for his family.

Growing up in one of the most beautiful cities in the nation, a great appreciation for the natural beauty of God's creation was nurtured within him. A son of industrious parents, he grew to be a young man of loyalty, integrity and responsibility.

At the age of twenty-three, the Lord saved him to be one of His chosen people. No longer would he do his own pleasure, but by God's grace, he would do his Father's. For well over a couple decades, his life has been counter-cultural as he followed the Scriptures.

As a young man, he was given one of the greatest gifts of his life, his beloved bride. During their twenty-three years of joyful marriage, they have become a couple of united purpose and vision. This vision extends beyond their lives or their children's, but to future generations yet unborn, if He wills.

During the past twenty-two years, this man of God has been blessed with eight arrows on this earth, five daughters and three sons. He has invested the prime of his life, with his wife at his side, to train these children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, not only by word and deed, but by the very principles that guide his life.

Earlier this week his wife, children and mother gathered around him for a special day of celebration, the day marking his fiftieth year. Feasting, laughing and working before the Lord, they celebrated God's faithfulness in the life of this patriarch, saved by grace.

This is the man I gratefully call my father.

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

Two Brave Young Men Rescue Sister's Heirlooms from a Serpent.

Daniel (Chief Executioner) and Matthew (Super Sleuth)

Picking Blossoms with Momma

A Blessed Commonplace Mother & Daughter Moment

Amy Grace and Mother

A Maiden of Virtue

A Testimony of the Lord's Grace in the Life of a Little Maiden.

Have you ever read a chapter of Elsie Dinsmore and wondered if such a young girl could ever humanly exist? A young girl who radiated the very love of Christ and delighted in speaking about Him and His Word? Could it ever be?

Dear sisters, by God's grace it can be true! Recently, I had the honor of speaking and spending time with a precious six year-old servant of Jesus Christ. Allow me to share a part of our conversation.

“We met in a crowded foyer; however, I picked her out immediately. Her earnest eyes and sweet smile betrayed a tender heart within. I knew very little about this girl. Her mother, a devoted wife and mother, had graciously blessed me with several times of encouraging fellowship. But this little girl...who was she?

After cheerful greetings and sisterly introductions, we talked about her family. Her dear daddy, mommy, brother and sister were evidently a true delight to her. We spoke at length about her daddy; how she loved that daddy, how she enjoyed special times with him, how she was greatly anticipating upcoming travels with him, etc. Suffice it to say, she adored her daddy.

Knowing that her family had traveled a great distance that day, I inquired how she spent their drive. Clasping her hands in genuine delight, she said, "I love to read my Bible, and today I was reading the book of Revelations." She went on to tell me how much the book of Psalms blessed her; it is her favorite book of the Bible. With a dreamy, far away look in her eyes, she mentioned that she is reading through the Psalms and was on the 111th chapter.”

Her child-like faith, her joy, her love of God and His word was a testimony of the Lord's grace in her life. What a blessing, what a rich gift it was and is to know and speak to one of God's chosen children. It was a conversation that I will never forget.

Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thine might.

Far Above Rubies, Part 1

A Series Highlighting Christ-glorifying, Culture-changing Woman from the Past to the Present.

Three remarkable qualities that marked the life of...

Sarah Edwards

I. Her love for the Lord. Sarah’s love for the Lord was evident by the way she obeyed the Scriptures. By submitting to the Lord’s commands and trusting in His holy providence, she lived as a free woman in Christ. In a letter to her daughter soon after Mr. Edward’s death, Sarah demonstrated this by writing,

“A holy and good God has covered us with a dark cloud. O that we may kiss the rod and lay our hands upon our mouths! The Lord has done it. He has made me adore his goodness, that we had him so long. But my God lives; and he has my heart. O what a legacy my husband and your father has left us! We are given to God and there I am and love to be.”

II. Her devotion to her husband. The love and devotion, Sarah Edwards lived out toward her husband is remarkable. At different times during their marriage, issues would arise that set scores of people (many in their own congregation) against Mr. Edwards because of his strong resolve that the Bible was the only means by which to judge right and wrong. Through it all, in times of poverty or wealth, Sarah stood by her husband, not only for moral support, but also for the furthering of his vision. Their Christ-honoring marriage inspired the young George Whitefield to write,

“A sweeter Couple I have not yet seen…She…talked feelingly and solidly of the Things of God, and seemed to be such a Help meet for her Husband that she caused me to …[pray] God, that he would be pleased to send me a Daughter of Abraham to be my wife.”

III. Her hospitality. I believe that my mother and Sarah Edwards have exemplified the Scriptural command of hospitality to the extent that love and care is coupled with grace and flare. My mother’s graciousness in serving guests in our home is what I also noticed in Sarah. People not only loved to be with Sarah, but they loved to be in her home watching her serve in her God-ordained sphere. Samuel Hopkins, who said, “She knew the heart of a stranger,” also remarked,

“She was peculiarly kind to strangers…By her sweet and winning manners and ready conversation, she soon became acquainted with them…and led him immediately to feel as if he were at home."

~ ~ ~

Some time ago, I read Marriage To a Difficult Man, and it was from this book that the above quotes from Sarah Edwards, George Whitefield and Samuel Hopkins were found. Marriage To a Difficult Man, was not only an interesting and engaging read, but it was a book that exposed the strength of women in their sphere of true influence and the effect of that influence on untold numbers of descendents. May the Lord be glorified!

Sisters Forever!

Thank the Lord for each little sister...
Emily, Amy Grace and Annie Hope

A Grateful Daughter

The Vision for Writing

"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:
And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Deuteronomy 6:4-7

One of the many beauties in a biblical household is the upholding of the Scriptures, God’s Word, in every area of life. In a biblical household the above verses, are not just heard, but heeded to the extent that each period of our day is seen as an opportunity to proclaim God’s truth. One such time is when the family gathers for a time of worship.

It was during one of those times when we gathered for family worship, that my father asked us to send an email containing one verse from the day’s Scripture reading to him at the office. Each child, who possessed the ability, was assigned his day to “write to daddy.”

What started out as a verse of Scripture, turned into something larger. To the single verse, several thoughts were added about the passage, then my thoughts concerning recent studies. It did not take great lengths of time before, on some occasions, I spent several hours formulating and writing out what was on my heart.

Because of my father’s encouragement and direction, I still write each week, four years later. Projects are laid aside on Tuesday afternoons when I engage in one of the most blessed and joyous activities, writing to my daddy.

The Lord used these small emails and turned them into one of the greatest assets in strengthening my relationship with my father. Many of these emails spurred conversation in which I was able to gain an even greater understanding of my father’s heart.

Without those emails, I would not be writing today. It was because of those emails and resulting conversations which we had together, that my father gave me the vision for this blog.

This vision includes the victories, the thoughts and the happenings of life in a Christian household seen through the eyes of a grateful daughter. Therefore, the underlying foundation, ultimately and completely, is to glorify God. And it is to this end that I do write.

Steadfast in Him,
Lauren

"Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance." Psalm 89:15