“People go to their place of worship and sit down comfortably, and think they must be Christians, when all the time all that their religion consists in, is listening to an orator, having their ears tickled with music, and perhaps their eyes amused with graceful action and fashionable manners; the whole being no better than what they hear and see at the opera–not so good, perhaps, in point of aesthetic beauty, and not an atom more spiritual.  Thousands are congratulating themselves, and even blessing God that they are devout worshipers, when at the same time they are living in an unregenerate Christless state, having the form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.  He who presides over a system which aims at nothing higher than formalism, is far more a servant of the devil than a minister of God.”–Charles Spurgeon Lectures To My Students

One of the most profound statements in one of the most profound books I’ve ever read.  This book, written over a hundred years ago, will live through many generations because of words like these.  As many of you know, I do NOT like to read and I put off any required reading til the last minute.  Well, tonight I had to finish a critique on 9 chapters of this book.  My plan was to skim through it and get the “meat”, but every page I turned, more “meat” was there.  I am simply amazed at the practical lessons I have learned and pray that I can hold on to this information and use it in my ministry.  I don’t care if you do not aspire to be a pastor or if you’ve been one for years, this book will help you in your Christian walk.

And how true is that statement?  How many of us are Christians simply because we find our large behinds in a pew each Sunday?  Spurgeon’s last line in that quote sums it up.  I might suggest we all read it over and over and let that sink in.  Are we too comfortable?  Have we created a habit?  In doing those things, who are we serving?

I’m not sure who the quote is from nor who I heard it from, but it is said that all of the demons in Hell believe in Jesus Christ.  Being a Christian is so much more.

Let us not rest until the last lost soul is reached.

Peace!

January 14, 2010

Dear Toby,

Congratulations!

The final grades for the Fall 2009 term have been posted.  I am pleased to inform you that your grades have qualified you for the Dean’s List.  This honor is awarded to full time students who have earned a 3.5 GPA or greater this term.

It is a pleasure to take this opportunity to offer you my personal congratulations for your diligence and hard work.  I trust that this accomplishment will set a precedent for a lifetime commitment to excellence in all aspects of your life.

May the Lord bless you as you continue to aim for His best in everything you do.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ronald S. Godwin

Vice Chancellor and Acting Provost

1971 University Boulevard

Lynchburg, VA  24502

Always, when I think…..”no way…I can’t”…..God says…..”I already have and YES you can!”