Devotions by Barb -- September 14, 2026

In this space, I am sharing devotions written by our dear Barbara Meade.

Barbara grew up a Quaker and is a regular attendee at Spiceland Friends Church. Her faith and Quaker roots go deep as her uncle was a Quaker pastor, evangelist, and artist. Barb's writings about her many life experiences reveal her faith in Christ and highlight the memories of a great family, her years in the banking industry, and her time as a local small business owner. Barb's desire is to serve those around her through her encouraging devotionals and writings from her life. Barb has recognized that our relationship with Christ grows throughout our lives, both in good times and through life's challenges.

GOD’S BLESSING OF HARD WORK

A friend told me a few days ago, after years on the job traveling “I had to come home and teach my boys to work”. Now he had already done this years before, when they were little, but it was important to him that in his retirement he could see what hard working boys they had become.

That was important to my husband too, although they were girls, they knew what hard work was as their dad gave them chores. Hard work develops Character, values, and teaches them what they can accomplish, and the rewards they achieve. They come away not expecting things for nothing, actually preferring to earn it.

Proverbs 10:45 He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in the summer is a wise son; he who sleeps in harvest is a son of shame.

Colossians 3: 23 Whatever you do, work with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

Galatians 6:9 Let not be weary in well doing: for in due season, we shall reap what we soweth.

Amen

Eric is our associate pastor, working with outreach and youth ministry as well as adult discipleship and growth. Eric retired from a 28-year career in public education as a high school band director in 2019 and is now living his lifelong dream as a pastor. Eric and his wife, Diana, continue to live in Henry County where they have been lifetime residents. They "raised" three children and are now making their best attempt at "raising" themselves.