Sis. Ruth Nichols, wife of VP Rev. Don Nichols, has been a Pastor's wife for over 30 years, and has a true heart for those in Ministry.

You will love her insights as she draws from her many years in pastoral work. 

She is the mother of 3 children, and is also a registered nurse.

                  ETERNAL VALUES

 

2012 has arrived, and, in spite of the gloom that is aired from the news media, we have the promise that each day is a day that the Lord has made, and is a special gift from His hand.  Many start the year with resolutions and fresh enthusiasm to embark on something new.  For as long as I can remember, I have started each year with a prayer that God would make me more like Him, that I would be more devoted in my prayer and Bible reading, that I would be more disciplined in every area of my life. 

In mid-December, I had my annual evaluation at work.  A few days prior to meeting with my supervisor, I was asked to list my accomplishments for the past year and my goals for the coming year.  These were to include personal as well as program goals.  Self evaluations can be difficult.  I sat down with my monthly reports, calendar of activities, budget and enrollment information, and began the process of self evaluation.  When it was time for the meeting, I felt confident, and a sense of satisfaction, knowing that I had not only met, but exceeded the expectations for my position.  Following this evaluation, my thoughts shifted to a real personal and spiritual self evaluation.  As much as we want to do well and be successful in our domestic or professional life, that will amount to a big zero in the light of eternity.  I can meet and exceed every expectation professionally, but if I fail spiritually, all is in vain!

As believers, we need to cultivate an eternal perspective, and a practical commitment for our daily living.  In all of our planning, we should prayerfully consider the words to this chorus written by Alfred Smith:

With eternity’s values in view, Lord,

With eternity’s values in view…

May I do each day’s work for Jesus,

With eternity’s values in view.

 

While we are trying to build a life here on earth, raising a family, getting an education, working, paying mortgage and car payments, we need to also be building our hopes on eternal things.  While the outlook may be dark politically, economically and socially, the uplook is very bright!  We need to look forward with joy, anticipation and hope. 

The goal of every believer is to make it to Heaven! 

Build your hopes on things eternal.

Every looking toward the skies

For the trump will soon be sounding. 

Christ is coming for His bride.  

This may be the year of His coming.  If so, can we meet Him with confidence, knowing that we have lived daily with eternity’s values in view?

Submitted by

Ruth Nichols