Young people often complain that their parents and the preacher are always saying, “Don't do that!” We realize there is much truth in this complaint.

I want to tell you why we say “Don't” so much, and why you hear from us, with almost annoying repetition, “Please be careful.”

I want to tell you why we want to know where you are going, and with whom, what you'll be doing, when you'll be home, etc.!

It is not because we do not have any confidence in you. It isn't because we think you don't know anything or that you're completely lacking in judgment. And, contrary to what you must often think, it’s not because we do not want you to have a good time.

We're concerned about you because we know from experience (and even our own sinful mistakes!) the danger that surrounds you. We are more sensitive to danger than you are. We know the real strength of temptation that will come your way.

Young lady, when your mother says: “Be good,” she is not saying, “I don't trust you.” She is saying, “I love you. I trust you. I know what temptation is. May God always be close enough to help you overcome it.”

Young man, when your father says: “Please be careful.” He is not saying, “You don't have sense enough to take care of yourself.” He is saying, “I love you. I don't want anything to happen to you.”

Teenagers, let me say a word for moms and dads. We love you. You are the most precious possessions we have. All our hopes and aspirations for the future are wrapped up in you. We would rather die than lose you - physically, morally, or spiritually.

We only ask that young people weigh carefully the advice of their parents. We are trying sincerely to help. We know we should be as positive as possible in making decisions about your life and more especially in your recreational activities. But there are times when we must say, “Don't do that!”

Author unknown — Copied from Orange Street’s bulletin

Animals are our friends. We have all kinds of pets: dogs, cats, canaries, gerbils, monkeys, turtles, cows ... even defumigated skunks.

People are often compared to animals. We say, "He's like a big ol’ teddy bear. He roars like a lion. He's as mean as a snake. He's as stubborn as a mule. She's as blind as a bat." And on and on.

But no one wants a pet buzzard! Why? Because they have a "buzzard personality." In appearance they are dull, scruffy. They smell awful. So, watch your appearance. Buzzards have filthy appetites. They feast on "stink." So, watch what you "feed" on. And buzzards don't sing. So, learn to sing the praise of your friends. Take sunshine with you.

What does it take to have true friends? Look at animals again. Why do we like them? Dogs are faithful, cats are cute, canaries are bright and cheerful. Isn't that exactly how the Bible teaches us to be? "A friend loveth at all times" (Proverbs 17:17). "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly" (Proverbs 18:24).

It is possible for us to have friends. But remember, no one wants a pet buzzard! — Copied

Much is made of the camaraderie and brotherhood of our soldiers. Yesterday, while listening to the radio, I heard how this camaraderie is exemplified. Martin Savage, of CNN, offered four marines the opportunity to call home. One marine asked if he could give his call to another marine so that he could call his wife who was expecting. The other three marines asked to use their calls to call the parents of a young man who had been killed in action. Savage was so touched by their selflessness and camaraderie, that he broke down and said, "where do they get young men like this?"

It's heartwarming to hear of stories like this. Examples of human compassion, friendship, and selflessness are the kind of stories that rekindle our faith in our fellow man.

But what about the camaraderie and brotherhood that should exist among the soldiers of Christ? Do we routinely exhibit selfless love and concern for each other? Is it clear to all that the body of Christ, Christians, possess a sense of camaraderie and brotherhood unparallel to anything in this world?

Brethren, don't let petty differences keep you from behaving like a brother. We're soldiers in the army of Christ. We face a daunting opponent. We need each other in this battle. If we have to worry about "friendly fire" as well as the assaults of the enemy, our effectiveness will be severely hampered. On the other hand, if we know that we don't stand alone; if we know that we are a part of a "band of brothers" we'll be emboldened by the camaraderie and acts of heroism will become routine and expected. — Copied

The Best of…
The Senior Citizens Banquet

“Traveling Through the
Past 20 Years”

March 29th @ 5:30 p.m.

Hosted by
Our Young People

Join us...
as we travel through
space and time.