My earliest childhood memories say that when we planted tomatoes, we just let them grow. As more and more tomatoes appeared on the plants, those weak vines began to collapse. We harvested tomatoes. However, many laid on the wet dirt and rotted. Part of the harvest was lost. At some point, a farmer realized that he could drive a stick or rod beside each plant. When the plant was tied to that stronger rod, it stayed tall, bore more fruit, and better fruit. The stronger rod made the difference.

Did you realize that illustrates a Biblical principle? Listen to these words:

[1 Thessalonians 5:14] “Now we exhort you, brethren… support the weak….”

[ Romans 15:1] “We then that are strong, ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”

Those are strong, wonderful admonitions. All around us are opportunities to be a blessing to those who are weak. For example, a new believer often needs instruction in things such as how to pray, study the Bible, or how to get started serving the Lord. Fifty-some years ago, I knew nothing about being a Pastor. I will forever be thankful for the 3 or 4 older Pastors who became my mentors. They taught me so much. They were the “strong rods” that held up my “weak” vine.

Many of you at Barbee’s Grove have been believers in Jesus for a long time. You have grown in the faith. Look around. Is the Lord pointing you to someone you could strengthen? It may be a fellow church member, a co-worker, a family member, a friend, a neighbor.

As I wrote this, I was reminded of a next door neighbor Pamela befriended just after we were married. One day, Linda said, “I want to know Jesus like you know Jesus. I want the joy you have.” Pamela introduced Linda to Jesus. Linda died in her 30’s from liver cancer. That is sad. However, there is joy in knowing she is now in heaven. It is because my wife showed Linda the love of Jesus.

Who is your “Linda”?

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. Sunday School at 9:00 am. Also available in the parking lot on 99.1 FM
2. Morning Worship and Children’s Church at 10:00 am. Also available in the parking lot at 10 and on the website after 12:30 pm
3. Prayer and Bible Study is Wednesday at 6:30 pm
4. Choir Practice is Sunday, July  25 at 6:00 pm 
5. Vacation Bible School is Saturday, August 7. Light breakfast begins at 8:45 am. Lunch provided. Day ends about 1:00 pm
6. Guest Preacher-Sunday, August 1-Rev. Darrell Huneycutt
7. Homecoming-Sunday, August 15- Guest Preacher-Rev. Terry Burris
8. The Financial Report that was shared at the Quarterly Conference last week tells us that you have been very faithful with giving your Tithes and Offerings the past months. Thank you for showing your love for Jesus and for our church!

How precious is the Name of Jesus.
Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church