From the heart of Darleen Whetstone

Darleen is a wife, mother of four children, grandmother of fourteen grandchildren, and has one great-grandchild on the way! She and her husband, Danny, have served the Lord together for 41 years. Brother Whetstone pastored in South Carolina and Tennessee. They were also missionaries in Grenada, West Indies. For the past 21 years Brother Whetstone has served as the President of World Wide New Testament Baptist Missions, which has over 100 missionaries scattered in more than 40 countries.

A Word of Encouragement

We are living in an uncertain world, with sin running rampant all around us! As we see 'the day' approaching, I want to encourage you with these verses. Remember, "Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." 1 John 4:4.

Philippians 4:1-9

These verses tell us to:

• stand fast
• have the same mind
• help one another
• rejoice in the Lord

Verse 6 admonishes us to "Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication (things we ask or even beg for) with thanksgiving (an expression of gratitude) let your requests be made known unto God."

If we do according to God's Word, in God's way, there will be peace which we don't always understand. In spite of our circumstances, it will keep our hearts and minds on Him! (Verse 7)

Finally, we are told in verse 7 that whatsoever things are...

• true
• honest
• just
• pure
• lovely
• of good report...

If there be any virtue (behavior with high moral standards) or praise (warm expressions of approval or admiration), we are commanded to "think on these things."

So, when you get discouraged, and all around you seems dark and dismal, and you feel all alone, go to Philippians 4:1-9, remembering that God always knows, cares, and is concerned about you!

We have so much to be thankful for! To God be the glory! It is an honor to share my heart with you, and I trust that these words will be an encouragement to you.