“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward” (Ps. 127:3).

When God created marriage and the home, he designed that a heritage would arise through it for future generations.  The next psalm shows that such blessings extend to “thy children’s children” (Ps. 128:6).  March 8, 2017 saw a new addition come into the home of Brex and Hannah Fuller and a further expansion of the Fuller and Clark homes.  Braxton, this writing is for you and your generation.  As the Bible addresses passing on the truth from generation to generation (cf. 2 Tim. 2:2; Titus 2:1-6), so it is with this article.  While you are not able to understand it now, if the Lord wills, you will have such opportunities.  Consider three things of importance for you to understand and appreciate.

1. Faith, Hope and Love. The foundation of a godly life is in the qualities of faith, hope and love.  The apostle Paul wrote of the brethren, “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father” (1 Thess. 1:3).  You must learn to live by faith (cf. Rom. 1:17; Heb. 10:38-39); hold to your hope in Christ (cf. Heb. 6:18-19) and love God with all your being and loving your neighbor as yourself (cf. Matt. 22:37-39).  These will keep you on the right path where success is found.
2. Family and Loved Ones. Braxton, God blessed you with a family that will nurture you in the way of the Lord.  Your father and mother loved you before you were born.  They are committed to see to your best interest.  Your extended family of the Fullers and Clarks has been strong in the Lord for generations.  Look to the guidance that they will teach you in the fear of God and be blessed in so doing (cf. Prov. 2:1-9).  You will find yourself surrounded by loving friends that will encourage you to be your best.  Walk with wise men and be wise (cf. Prov. 13:20).
3. Focus and Loyalty.  While you will have many great influences around you, you must ultimately learn to focus on the good and be loyal to what you learn from the Bible.  You must grow up being responsible for your own thoughts and actions (cf. Rom. 14:12).  The wise man Solomon tried so many things of this world only to learn from experience that the world’s standards bring vanity to life (cf. Eccl. 12:8).  There is only one focus for living this life on earth.  “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Eccl. 12:13-14).  Being single-minded in your focus and loyal to God will bring marvelous blessings.  You will find that living the godly life will not be easy (cf. Matt. 7:14).  However, you will find that God is with you every step of the way (cf. Heb. 13:5-6).  Be a bright and shining light before your fellowman, especially your generation.  Righteous leadership is a rare quality in this world.  You must learn to take your place and walk in the steps of the Lord.  We have prayed for you and will always pray for you to be what God wants you to become.  Never forget where you came from and where you are going.  We will always love and encourage you.

Papa C and Mama C